About Miry Ridge Trail
Miry Ridge Trail is a long backcountry ridge walk reached from Elkmont. It begins at the top of the Jakes Creek Trail and runs about 4.9 miles to the Appalachian Trail, climbing roughly 1,100 feet. With the 3.6 miles up Jakes Creek, it is a big day or a good overnight.
The hike
The trail follows a high ridge through hardwood and then spruce-fir forest, with few views but plenty of solitude. It meets the AT at the far end.
When to go
Summer to fall are best. Winter is icy.
Getting there
Start at the Jakes Creek trailhead in Elkmont, off Little River Road. The park charges for parking rather than entry: a parking tag is $5 a day, $15 a week or $40 a year, required for any vehicle parked more than 15 minutes. America the Beautiful and other federal passes are not accepted.
Know before you go
Pets are not allowed. Overnight trips need a backcountry permit.
Pair it with
Other hikes in the same part of the park:
- Middle Prong Trail: an easy railroad-grade walk to Lynn Camp Prong Cascades
- West Prong Trail: a 5.4-mile round trip along the river
- Little River Trail: a gentle railroad grade through old Elkmont
Planning and safety
Plan on a long day and pack accordingly: more water than seems reasonable, real food, a warm layer, a rain shell and a headlamp. Start at first light if you can, and turn around if the weather or your energy changes.
Check conditions the morning you go. The park posts trail and road closures and cautions, and storms, ice and Hurricane Helene repairs can change access with little notice. Carry water, a rain layer and a map, keep a safe distance from bears and elk, and pack out everything you bring in.
Good to know
- How long is Miry Ridge Trail?
- Miry Ridge Trail is 4.9 miles one way, with about 1,100 feet of climbing. It is rated strenuous.
- Are dogs allowed on this trail?
- No. Inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park, dogs are allowed only on the Gatlinburg Trail and the Oconaluftee River Trail.
- Do I need a parking tag to hike here?
- A Park It Forward parking tag ($5 a day, $15 a week or $40 a year) is required for any vehicle parked more than 15 minutes inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Entry is free, and federal passes such as America the Beautiful do not replace the tag.
