(Bonus) Hike of the Month: Gregory Bald

Although Gregory Bald is an excellent destination anytime of the year, mid to late June is the absolute best time to make the trek to the summit. In addition to its excellent views into Cades Cove, Gregory Bald provides for one of the best flame azalea shows in the world during this time period.

In fact, azalea lovers from all over the world come here to visit perhaps the finest display of flame azaleas anywhere on the planet. According to the Great Smoky Mountains Natural History Association the various hybrids of azaleas on Gregory Bald are so impressive and unique that the British Museum of Natural History has collected samples of them.

This isn't an easy hike - the trail climbs over 3000 feet, and the roundtrip hike is 11.3 miles - but it's well worth it. As mentioned in a previous post, I would definitely rate this as one of the top 3 hikes in the Smokies.

Here's a preview of some of the sights you'll see at the top:


For more information on this hike, please click here.


Jeff
HikingintheSmokys.com Detailed information on trails in the Smoky Mountains; includes trail descriptions, key features, pictures, video, maps, elevation profiles, news, hiking gear store, and more.