Pets allowed
Allowed
Elevation Gain
231.00 ft (70.41 m)
Trail type
Loop
Distance
1.00 mi (1.61 km)
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

The Cosby Self-Guided Nature Trail is an easy one mile loop trail that offers a glimpse at some of the beauty that can be found within this remote corner of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The trail begins at a small parking area near the Cosby Campground. If the lot is full, there is a large parking area just back down the entrance road.

The Nature Trail is a “self-guided hike,” however, brochures were not available during this visit. Even without a brochure guide, this trail is an enjoyable experience. The Nature Trail takes hikers through some beautiful forested terrain and frequently criss crosses several small streams including gorgeous Cosby Creek.

The trail forms a loop that will take you right back to the parking area. If you are looking to further explore, there are a few other trails in the area including the Low Gap Trail that climbs substantially up to the Appalachian Trail where hikers can then summit Mount Cammerer.

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Winter
Spring
Summer
Fall

Congestion

Moderate

Parking Pass

None

Open Year-round

Yes

Pros

Beautiful forest area and streams. Easy hike.

Cons

Brochures may not be available for the “self-guided trail.”

Trailhead Elevation

2,279.00 ft (694.64 m)

Highest point

2,343.00 ft (714.15 m)

Features

Near lake or river
Wildlife
Family friendly

Typically multi-day

No

Permit required

No

Location

Nearby Lodging + Camping

Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
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