Little River Trail – An Easy and Fun Walk
Little River Trail: A Scenic and Accessible Hike for All Ages
The Little River Trail in the Elkmont area of Great Smoky Mountains National Park is an excellent choice for first-time hikers, families, and anyone seeking a relaxed, scenic walk through the forest. While not accessible for strollers or wheelchairs, the trail’s gentle terrain and wide, well-maintained path make it ideal for all ages and fitness levels.
Trail Overview
The Little River Trail follows the route of an old gravel railroad bed once used for logging in the early 20th century. Today, it offers a smooth and even surface with a gradual incline on the outbound journey and an easy descent on the way back. The path is wide enough to walk comfortably side-by-side, and no special hiking gear is required—comfortable shoes, water, and a few snacks will be sufficient for most visitors.
Many hikers choose to walk to the junction with Cucumber Gap Trail, approximately 2.5 miles in, for a pleasant round-trip hike of just under five miles. This portion of the trail offers continuous views of the Little River, with its clear, rushing waters flowing over mossy boulders and past small waterfalls.
Highlights Along the Trail
One of the most scenic points on the trail comes at about 2.2 miles, where a footbridge crosses over Huskey Branch Falls, a picturesque 20-foot cascade. Along the way, hikers can stop to rest by the river, dip their feet in the cool water, or try their hand at fishing. Wildlife sightings are also common—keep an eye out for river otters, deer, wild turkeys, and a variety of bird species.
In addition to its natural beauty, the trail offers glimpses into the past. Hikers will pass the remnants of early 20th-century summer cottages built by Knoxville’s elite. These historic stone structures, though now in ruins and off-limits to the public, add a touch of character and history to the walk. Another hidden feature is the trail’s unofficial "troll bridge," a moss-covered stone footbridge located just off the main path. Adventurous visitors can find it by following an unmarked gravel trail that appears a few hundred feet after the trail begins.
Seasonal Appeal
The Little River Trail is beautiful year-round, with each season offering unique experiences:
- Spring (March–April): A prime time for wildflower viewing, with a colorful variety of blooms lining the trail.
- Summer: Lush greenery and a chance to witness the famous synchronous fireflies, a rare natural light show that occurs in early summer.
- Fall: The trail becomes a corridor of vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows as autumn foliage reaches its peak in October.
- Winter: A quieter, more peaceful landscape with clear views and crisp mountain air.
Extended Hiking Options
For those interested in exploring further, the trail connects to a number of other hiking routes. More ambitious hikers may opt to return via Cucumber Gap Trail, which forms a longer and more challenging loop. Trail maps are available at visitor centers and online to help plan extended hikes from this location.
Getting There
To reach the Little River Trail:
- Drive to Elkmont Campground within Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
- Turn left at the campground entrance and continue approximately 0.6 miles to reach the trailhead parking area.
After your hike, the Elkmont area offers additional opportunities to explore, including nearby trails, historic sites, and the vibrant town of Gatlinburg, just a short drive away.
Little River Trail is a wonderful introduction to hiking in the Smokies and a great way to experience the region’s natural beauty, history, and wildlife. Whether you're looking for a gentle walk or the starting point of a longer outdoor adventure, this trail has something to offer in every season.
TIP: For more outdoor adventures in the Smokies, check out our Gatlinburg Hiking Trails, and our Smoky Mountains map page. And besides hiking, there are many fun outdoor things to do, which you can find in our Smoky Mountains Activities guide.
And wherever you target your activities in the park and the area, you can make it close to your cabin. We have rental cabins all over the area, including Wears Valley cabins, as well as our Gatlinburg cabins and our Pigeon Forge cabin rental.