Sugarland Mountain Trail

Hike #51 : October 3, 2015

Sugarland Mountain Trail from Fighting Creek Gap to Husky Gap

6.2 miles

3.1 new miles
626.6 total overall miles

415.8 total miles of 800.8


Today's hike begins at the parking lot directly across Fighting Creek Road from the trailhead to Laurel Falls. There's an old saying that the road got it's name from all the tourist fighting over parking spaces... so get there early if you want one.

This is an out and back solo hike. I'd been told that Sugarland starts off to a steep climb and as I begin up the trail, I'm not disappointed. Its straight up for just over 3/4 of a mile and then drops in roller coaster fashion when you reach the top of the hill where a view awaits. The fog is unrelenting today, so no view but I imagine it to be nice on a clear day.

A foggy start on Sugarland Mountain Trail

Once the trail levels out, its a beautiful walk in the forest. The solitude is just what the doctor ordered. The fog always adds a cool element to a trail. The trail pleasantly winds and rolls until it seemingly quickly comes to the Husky Gap Trail junction.

The Husky Gap Trail sign in the distance foggy view...

This is where the hike ends and I turn around and head back out. I'm never too fond of out and backs but this trail, on this particular day, was just as nice on the way back.

Sugarland Mountain Trail alive with the sights of fall!

The fog  begins to lift ever so slightly as I make my way out.

A bit more of a view as the fog lifts

Just for the record, the climb out is much, much more of a challenge than on the way in. I had to summon up the spirit of my hiking buddy Eddie to give me the needed motivational push I needed to get up that big hill!

Not sure what this is but I figure its full of scientific goodies for the rangers.

Although its not a popular trail, I really enjoyed it. 99% of everyone who parks here off Fighting Creek Road will make their way up to Laurel Falls and never even consider this trail. All the more reason to go... the trail less traveled.



TRAIL REVIEW

Sugarland Mountain Trail - 3.1 miles

Wanna hike the 900 without getting lost? Start by checking out the book Day Hiker's Guide To All The Trails In The Smoky Mountains by Elizabeth L. Etnier.

Hiking Trails of the Smokies or "The Little Brown Book" from the GSMA

Hiking Trails of The Great Smoky Mountains by Ken Wise

There is loads of information in the pages of GoSmokies.com.