Smoky Mountain National Park – Ace Gap

GSMNP Ace Gap trail begins where Rich Mountain Road meets the park boundary. We will use Dry Valley Road to get to the trailhead. The trail is essentially flat for the first 4.2 miles then it loses about 300 feet in the next 6/10th mile where it reaches Ace Gap and campsite #7. The total distance is 9.6 miles. Along the way we will pass campsite #4 at 2.3 miles, Kelly Gap. The end of the trail is about 8/10th of a mile past campsite #7, where it meets Beard Cane trail. If some want to go to the end of the trail the others can rest/relax at campsite #7. At Ace Gap an old railroad bed built in the early twentieth century by the Little River Lumber Company crosses the mountain. The hike difficulty is rated as moderate. We recommend shoes to wear to and from the hike plus sturdy hiking shoes, other weather appropriate clothing, a snack, a drink and a camera. We will meet at the Browns Creek Shopping Center parking lot nearest the Sonic at 1707 E Lamar Alexander Pkwy, across the street from the Hardee’s, near the hospital in Maryville. We will leave there at 9:00 am. After the hike plan on stopping on the way back for a meal and refreshments. For specific information about the hike please call Tom before the 18th, leave a message or send an email.