Today, we set out for the Mt. Cammerer Lookout Tower, our first hike in the Smoky Mountains. The trailhead is about 20 miles east of Gatlinburg. Our hike began at Cosby Creek Campground, it was steep from the get-go through the dense forest. Once we reached the Appalachian Trail the hike was much easier, though still gaining in elevation as we traversed a ridge. We had nice views all the way to the summit of Mt. Cammerer. We were surprised by the number of hikers we met up at the top, it was fun visiting with them; hikers are interesting!
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| We are headed to a Lookout Tower on Mt. Cammerer via the Appalachian Trail |
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| First things first, rock hopping across Cosby Creek (We would soon learn that there was a bridge upstream!) |
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| The first 2.9 miles was a steep climb, gaining over 2000 ft. |
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| It felt good to arrive at Low Gap This is the Tennessee-North Carolina border |
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| We are now hiking on the Appalachian Trail or AT, as the locals call it . . whoohoo! |
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| Some of the trees were changing along the trail |
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| Almost there . . . ! |
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| Mt. Cammerer Lookout Tower built in 1937 by the CCC |
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| We made it! Almost 6 miles one way with an elevation gain of 3045 ft. |
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| Nice views and a beautiful day makes for a perfect hike |
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| Several other hikers joined us at the top |
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| We were amazed at the ages of the hikers we met ranging from the 20's to 80's |
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| So pretty and interesting |
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| Neat fungi |
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| The many colors of Fall |
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| It almost doesn't look real, but it is! |
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| After about 12 miles we took the easy way across the creek using the bridge! |
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| The next day we had a great view of Mt. Cammerer from the Foothills Parkway |
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| We really enjoyed our time in the Great Smoky Mountains . . . we hope to return one day! |
