Mount Cammerer Loop(edit)

based on 40 tracks & routes | |

DIFFICULT

#63 hike out of 614 in Great Smoky Mountains National Park |

DIFFICULT

15.2 mi

Distance

7 hrs 8 min

Time

2,635 ft

Elev Gain

Overview

This is a difficult loop trail to Mount Cammerer in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The hike begins and ends at nearby trailheads in Cosby Campground.

The hike begins with a challenging climb on Low Gap Trail up to the Appalachian Trail. This trail is steep and eroded in places, but it is a short (2.6 mile) hike to get to the AT. Heading north on the AT from there, it is a gentler climb most of the way to the Mt Cammerer Trail junction. The side trail to Mt Cammerer is 0.6 mi 1-way, and some mild rock scrambling at the end to get to the fire tower. The "Western Style" stone fire tower and the 360º views are the highlight of this high. It is a beautiful spot to hang out, though it can be crowded on popular days.

After returning to the AT, continue north until you get to the Lower Cammerer junction. This is a longer and less steep hike back to Cosby CG. Alternatively, you could return the way you hiked in on Low Gap for a shorter (~11.1mi) total distance.

This trail goes by Low Gap, Sunup Knob, Sharpton Gap, Mount Cammerer, 35, and Sutton Ridge Overlook.

Getting Started

There are close together trailheads for these trails inside Cosby Campground, which is convenient for those camping there. There is also hiker parking just outside the CG entrance, with connecting trails. Smokies parking pass is required. Parking pass kiosks are available.

Taking Children

Tough hike for young children. Mostly safe, except for some hazards nearby the fire tower and summit.

Sights to See

Rate this Hike

★★★★★

stephenncollins 4 years ago

Went on an overcast Friday morning with light rain. Perfect hiking weather! I took the counterclockwise route (Low Gap) by mistake, but was really happy I did. The climb is steep and a tough workout, but it gets you to the lookout FAST. As others have said, by going this way, going down the Lower Cammerer feels pretty boring, but the more gradual grade is more forgiving on the knees than the Low Gap would be, for sure...which is important to us old guys. :) The trail as of August 21, 2020 needs some maintenance, without a doubt. I was left wondering if COVID has set the crews back, because there were several downed trees across the trail, and a couple of them were genuinely precarious to get over or around. On the Lower Cammerer, there were many places where the brush has become unruly and has even grown over the trail. It made me hyper aware of my steps, as I was concerned about timber rattlesnakes which live in the area. There was also numerous deep muddy spots that I just had to slog through. All in all, it was a great day out on the mountain. I only saw 5 other people the whole day...and one bear! And as everyone else has said, the view from the summit is breathtaking. The best I've personally experienced in the Smokies. Worth every step.

★ ★ ★ ★