About West Prong Trail
West Prong Trail is a quiet way into the Tremont area, away from the busiest roads. The National Park Service lists the hike at 5.4 miles round trip (about 2.7 miles each way), with about 825 feet of climbing along the way.
The hike
The trail starts near the Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont and follows the creek, climbing through hardwood forest, then rises to a junction with the Bote Mountain Trail. It can be linked with Lumber Ridge and Meigs Creek trails for longer loops.
When to go
Spring wildflowers and fall color are best. Summer is shaded but humid.
Getting there
Follow Tremont Road from Townsend to the trailhead lot at Tremont. Plan on a parking tag ($5 daily, $15 weekly, $40 annual) if you will be parked longer than 15 minutes. Federal passes do not substitute for it, and a screenshot will not do; the tag must be displayed in the vehicle.
Know before you go
Pets are not allowed. Bring water, rain gear and a map; cell service is limited. Check the closures page before you go.
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
- Little River Trail: a gentle railroad grade through old Elkmont
- Jakes Creek Trail: a climb past historic Elkmont sites
Planning and safety
Allow about two miles per hour on rolling mountain trail, then add time for photos, snacks and rest. Start by mid-morning at the latest so you finish with daylight, and decide on a turnaround time before you leave the car.
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 West Prong Trail?
- West Prong Trail is 2.7 miles one way (5.4 miles round trip), with about 825 feet of climbing. It is rated moderate.
- 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.
