Grand Gap Loop Trail

Dogs Unknown

Features Birding · Fall Colors · River/Creek · Spring · Views · Wildflowers

Keep your eyes peeled for mountain bikers while on trail.

Take the JMT: Leatherwood Ford - Station Camp Crossing from the Leatherwood Parking area to the top of the bluff, which is about 2.8 miles. The Grand Gap Loop Trail begins where it intersects with the JMT: Leatherwood Ford - Station Camp Crossing. The two trails converge to the right for about 350 yards to the Angel Falls Overlook which provides awesome views of the Big South Fork of the Cumberland River.

Continue on in the same direction along the edge of the bluff ridge. Views of the river will be frequently available. Eventually, the trail turns in away from the ridge and through a mini forest of mountain laurels. It emerges into a hilly hardwood forest. At around 5 miles, the trail merges with the John Muir Trail. It passes by the Fall Branch Overlook which offers more wonderful vistas, and the trail ends at the Angel Falls Overlook Trail, where it began.

NOTE: There is no water to be found on top of the bluff. Be sure to bring enough water to provide proper hydration during the 7 mile loop, as well as for the ascent and descent on the Angel Falls Overlook Trail.