Thunderhead Mountain
Thunderhead Mountain, near Cades Cove and accessible via Anthony Creek Trail, reaches 5,527 feet at its highest peak. James Spenser, the first known settler nearby, used the area near Chimney Rocks for cattle grazing. By the late 19th century, Thunderhead had become a grassy bald.
Rocky Top
Rocky Top, Thunderhead’s lowest peak, gained fame from the song of the same name. This knob on the mountain’s western summit ridge features a distinctive rocky formation.
Precambrian Sandstone
Thunderhead consists of Precambrian sandstone, formed 500 million to 1 billion years ago from ancient ocean sediment. The North American and African plates collided about 200 million years ago, pushing the rock upward and forming the mountain. This area is part of the Ocoee Supergroup.
Historical Significance
Arnold Guvot surveyed Thunderhead in 1859. During the Civil War, a group attempted to build a wilderness settlement called the New World along the north slope. The settlement ultimately failed. By the early 1900s, Thunderhead had become a popular hiking destination. In 1924, John W. Oliver, great-grandson of Cades Cove’s first settlers, offered guided hiking tours of Thunderhead. He used the Bote Mountain Trail, now part of the Appalachian Trail.
Reclamation and Preservation
The formation of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park led to Thunderhead reclaiming land once cleared for pasture. Only narrow paths remain for visitors, as the Park Service aims to allow natural reclamation of the mountain.
The Trailhead
The path to Thunderhead from Cades Cove starts at Anthony Creek Trail. This route shortens the hike by about 4 miles compared to Bote Mountain Trail. From the Anthony Creek trailhead, the hike to Thunderhead’s summit is approximately 7.5 miles. At the summit, forage coverage is common. Late fall and winter months offer better views, but the Thunderhead hike provides a true Smokies experience year-round.
Additional Facts
- Wildlife: Hikers may encounter various wildlife such as black bears, white-tailed deer, and diverse bird species along the trail.
- Flora: The trail features a variety of flora, including mountain laurel, rhododendron, and hardwood forests.
- Trail Difficulty: The Anthony Creek Trail to Thunderhead Mountain is rated moderate to strenuous, suitable for experienced hikers.
Trail Chart: Anthony Creek Trail to Thunderhead Mountain
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Trailhead | Anthony Creek Trail |
| Length | 7.5 miles to the summit |
| Elevation Gain | Approximately 3,000 feet |
| Trail Type | Out and back |
| Difficulty | Moderate to strenuous |
| Best Seasons | Late fall, winter, early spring |
| Wildlife | Black bears, white-tailed deer, birds |
| Flora | Mountain laurel, rhododendron, hardwoods |
| Scenic Views | Available mainly in late fall and winter |
For more details on Thunderhead Mountain and its trails, visit Best Hiking Trails in Cades Cove and Anthony Creek Trail.
Further Reading
