Hike the Iron Mountain Gap to Hughes Gap
This is a new adventure! Be the first to share your experience.
Each photo and review that you add on The Outbound earns you points towards rewards, free gear, and access to exclusive discounts. Learn More.
Added by The Outbound Collective
Take in amazing views of Pisgah National Forest, Iron Mountain, and the Appalachian Trail on this 9 mile hike.
You will start this hike at a small parking area at the state line (~3700 feet). From here the first thing you'll see is the view of Pinnacle Mountain and Unaka Mountain to the west. Take the time to shoot these from different angels.
Not much happens for another 2 miles (some orchards and random outcroppings) and decent elevation gains. About 4 miles in you will reach Greasy Creek Gap, which may be a good place to stop and eat a little and rehydrate. Then in another 2 miles you will see the Blue Trail to the Clyde Smith Shelter, you will also see the start to a cliff overlook which is great for photos.
In another mile you will reach the high point of the Appalachian Trail on Iron Mountain near Little Rock Knob. Continue on for another 2 miles until you reach the Hughes Gap at a final elevation of 4040 feet.
Directions:
Directions: Take TN Route 107 (Limestone Cove Road) ten miles east from Unicoi, TN, or NC Route 226, four miles west from Buladean, to the NC to the state line, where there is a wide gravel pull off area. After parking, look toward the TN side and across the road and you'll see where the AT heads north toward Hughes Gap.
Go Pro.
We're committed to building a better, more inclusive home for the modern outdoors. Go PRO to support our mission and get benefits like gear deals, no ads, and more!
Join the communityLeave No Trace
Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!
We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on.
Stay Nearby
37692
Rock Creek Recreation Area
Hampton, Tennessee
Dennis Cove Campground
Mars Hill, North Carolina
Mountainside Getaway | Private Sauna | Pool & Spa
From $157/night
Nearby Adventures
Camp at Unaka Mountain Overlook
Hike to Janes Bald
Hiking from Carver's Gap to Hwy. 19 on the AT
Backpack to Overmountain Shelter in the Roan Highlands
© 2021 The Outbound Collective - Terms of Use - Privacy Policy