Do you like to go for a nice hike in Cades Cove? Do you also enjoy sleeping under the stars? If you answered "yes" to both of these questions, plan a backcountry camping trip for your next visit to Great Smoky Mountains National Park! One of our favorite spots for hiking and camping in Cades Cove is the Little Bottoms Trail. Keep reading to learn more!
Little Bottoms Trail
Directions to Trailhead
The Little Bottoms Trail is located near Cades Cove, but you won’t find the trailhead along the loop road. You’ll start your hike on the Cooper Road Trail, which is located near the Abrams Creek Campground and Ranger Station. If you’ve never been on the route before, you can get more information from a knowledgeable park ranger before setting off!
Trail Description
As a whole, the Little Bottoms Trail is only 2.3 miles long. The route connects Abrams Creek to the Hatcher Mountain Trail and a lot of the backcountry campsites. As you start on the Cooper Road Trail, the terrain is mostly flat, as it follows an old wagon route. Long before the area was a national park, wagons pulled by horses would transport people as well as goods. The junction for the Little Bottoms Trail is only about 1 mile in.
While the Little Bottoms Trail is short, the terrain can be considered strenuous because it is very narrow. Be mindful of exposed tree roots and rocks. Wear sturdy closed-toed shoes to help keep your balance. Pace yourself; take breaks to enjoy the sights and views. You may see a bear or deer along the way. When the Little Bottoms Trail “ends,” turn right to Abrams Falls or left to Hatcher Mountain. You can also turn back and go the way you came!
Backcountry Camping Options
When it’s time to settle down for the night, hike back to the Abrams Creek Campground, or pitch your tent at campsite 01, which is located less than a mile from the Little Bottoms Trail junction. It will be a great place to relax after a fun day! Here are some helpful tips about backcountry camping in the Smoky Mountains:
- Plan Ahead: Backcountry campsites have limited capacity, so the National Park Service requires a reservation and fee for campers. Keep in mind that the backcountry campsites are only open during the summer months.
- Secure Food: There are no food lockers available at many backcountry campsites. You will need to secure your food so that the scent won’t attract wildlife. Use a Bear Canister or hang it from a tree with rope.
- Fire Safety: Only build fires in the designated fire rings to protect wildlife and vegetation
- No Pets: Dogs are not allowed at backcountry campsites. Take them to a frontcountry campsite instead!
More Cades Cove Hiking Info
Now you know all about the Little Bottoms Trail in Cades Cove and backcountry camping options nearby! Want to learn more about the hiking trails and history of this popular area in Great Smoky Mountains National Park? Read about the unique history of the Abrams Falls Trail!
