Tellico Village Hiking Club

Friday, Oct. 28, 2011

Depart at 8:00 am from the Cooper Visitors Center

Twentymile Loop Trail (1½ hour drive)

Distance: 7.5 miles

Elevation Gain: 1300 ft.

Rating: Moderate

Leader: Ron Dawe,   865-458-4255,   rondawe@charter.net

This is a loop hike connecting three GSMNP trails.  The first three miles ascend the Twentymile Trail to the junction with the Twentymile Loop Trail.   Twentymile Creek parallels the route most of the way, and there are many opportunities for water photography including Twentymile Cascade.  There is 1000 feet of elevation gain on this trail, and there are some steep sections.  The hike then follows the Twentymile Loop Trail to the descent on Wolf Ridge Trail.

Note that this hike requires driving the Tail of the Dragon, US Hwy. 129, and some hikers have developed motion sickness on this road.

Hiking boots and hiking stick(s) are recommended.  Bring ample water and a trail lunch.

Directions will be provided the morning of the hike.  Car-pooling is recommended and will be set up the morning of the hike. Passengers are asked to contribute $5 to the driver to help cover gas, etc. 

Driving Directions to Twentymile Trail:Take the Parkway to Hwy. 72 and turn left.  At 411 turn left toward Vonore.  Approx. 1 mile beyond the bridge over the lake turn right on the continuation of Hwy. 72 to the junction with Hwy 129, the Tail of the Dragon.  Turn right and drive to Deals Gap in NC, and turn left on NC 28 for 2.8 miles, and turn left into the GSMNP Twentymile Ranger Station.  Hiker parking is above the station.