Thunderhead Mountain for the REAL hiker in you.

Sometimes you want a nice, relaxing day in the mountains. Sometimes, you want to get your hike on! If you’re looking for some great views from a 5000+ foot peak and a nice day really IN the Smokies, you should check out Thunderhead Mountain.

The trailhead is just a few miles from Townsend in the Cades Cove picnic area.

At nearly 14 miles and more than 3000 feet in elevation gain, it’s very strenuous, so it’s not for the casual hiker. But it you are up to the challenge, the views are worth it. (And at 5000+ feet up, temperatures are a good 10-15 degrees cooler than where you’re starting.)

Again, this hike is not for the casual hiker. If you’d like a moderate hike to a gorgeous waterfall, drive a little ways down the Cades Cove Loop Road and get on the Abrams Falls Trail. It’s a much easier hike (only 2.5 miles back to the falls), and you can cool off in the water when you get there. (No climbing the falls, please!)

Take note that in the Summertime in the Smokies, there is always potential for the occasional out-of-nowhere thunderstorm. Bring rain gear with you and, if you get caught in a storm,  be sure to take cover, and be wary of lightning. (They don’t call it Thunderhead Mountain for nuthin’).

Always wear proper footwear. A good, sturdy hiking boot or shoe is necessary for a long hike with a lot of elevation gain, especially if you’re carrying a pack. And, as further precaution, whenever you hike, be sure to bring along the “Essentials”:

1. Map and trail guide (Many carry the “little brown book” – Hiking Trails of the Smokies
2. Compass/GPS device (be sure you know how it functions before heading out)
3. Flashlight / Headlamp (and extra batteries!)
4. Extra Food (trail mix, energy bars – calorie dense snacks that don’t take too much space in your pack)
5. Rain gear (rain suit, rain jacket or poncho)
6. Extra Clothes (especially socks! And no cotton socks. They can literally rub you the wrong way and cause blisters. Not a good time. Check out your local outdoor center for proper footwear options)
7. Sunglasses and/or brimmed hat
8. First-Aid Kit
9. Pocket Knife
10. Waterproof Matches (or a lighter) and Fire starter
11. Water / Filter / Bottles (Bring at least 2 quarts per person. More on a hot summer day. Never judge your hydration level by thirst. If you’re thirsty, you’re already partially dehydrated, so drink lots!) Also, never drink directly from any streams in the mountains. It may look perfectly clear and drinkable, but there are all sorts of germs in there that could lead to serious illness. Animals upstream “doing their business”  means a bad case of giardia or cryptosporidium for you. If you must taste some cool mountain water, bring a water filter! (Filtered Smoky Mountain stream water is amazing!)
12. Emergency Whistle
13. Insect Repellents
14. Sunburn Preventatives

What? No cell phone on this list? Bring one if you’d like, but be sure that you will not be able to rely on it. Reception in the mountains is spotty at best.

Of course, if you’re just going on a short and heavily used little trail, like to Abrams Falls, most of this can be dispensed with. But for an all day thing, these are absolutely essential to the health and happiness of everyone involved.

Hiking is a great activity for anyone. It’s a great way to get a little exercise (or a LOT, if you’re taking on Thunderhead Mountain!), enjoy nature, see some amazing wildlife and wild flowers, and just get away from it all. Just be sure to be safe and follow the rules of “Leave No Trace.”

Most of all, have fun!

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~ by peacefulsmokies on August 4, 2009.