Hiking Rocky Top in the Summer Overview
Rocky Top is a special hike in the Smokies because of its breathtaking views, luscious green plants, and wildlife. I even spotted a black bear during the hike!
The trail I took to Rocky Top was Lead Cove Trail, making the hike 11.4 miles roundtrip.
The Rocky Top hike is legendary and is in my top 5 all-time favorite hikes in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. I managed to complete the hike in roughly 8 hours with multiple stops and breaks along the way to enjoy the sites.
Rocky Top Trail Weather
In the summer, the trail felt extremely humid during the first 1-2 miles—almost as if I were hiking in a tropical climate. However, once you make it above the first couple of miles and at a higher altitude, the hike feels much cooler.
During the colder months, I recommend dressing in layers since the Smoky Mountains can feel especially cold in the morning and feel gradually warmer throughout the day.
I would also recommend you bring some bug spray since there were quite a few gnats and mosquitos.
My Experience Hiking Rocky Top
There isn’t a lot of parking at the Lead Cove Trailhead since the parking spots are pull-offs by the road. Make sure to arrive early to grab a parking spot!
When I first saw the Lead Cove Trail sign, I was stunned at first when I saw the Trail Closure sign. However, once I got closer, I saw that the trail was only closed to Equestrians. The Lead Cove trail to Rocky Top trail is open to hikers and is only closed to Equestrians (horseback riders).
Rocky Top is a great hike though I would rate the hike as difficult. The elevation gain on the Rocky Top trail is difficult, to say the least. I took multiple water breaks along the way, and enjoyed spotting some of the small creatures.
Some of the signs were also well-worn and difficult to read. Nevertheless, you pretty much follow the Lead Cove Trail most of the way with only a small stretch of the trail running along the Appalachian Trail toward the end of the hike.
Some of the trees in the forest were really fascinating to look at. One of the trees had some moss growing along the trunk, some interesting knots, and the branches had a cool upward slant.
The Rocky Top trail also had some incredible plants you can find in Eastern Tennessee and the Smokies, such as the flame azalea rhododendrons and the Mountain Laurel.
The picture below is of flame azalea rhododendrons, which have an incredible bright orange color.
The picture below is of the Mountain Laurel.
Once you are roughly less than a mile from Rocky Top, you’ll make it to Spence Field, which is an amazing overlook area in and of itself.
Spence Field is also a great place to take a break before you continue your Summit to Rocky Top.
Summating Rocky Top in the Great Smoky Mountains
The last stretch of the Rocky Top Trail felt even more strenuous. It was all pretty much uphill but very rewarding. My face was drenched with sweat—some of the sweat even made it into my eyes.
However, once you make it to Rocky Top, you’ll be amazed by the overlook. You’ll see the mountains for miles and even part of Fontana Lake.
The top of Rocky Top is, not surprisingly, actually a bit rocky. If you stand on the rocks, you can get a better view of the mountains and enjoy a 360-degree overlook.
If you decide to, you can also continue the trail to make your way to Thunderhead Mountain. However, we were quite happy with how far we got for a day hike and headed back after lunch.
What are Your Thoughts on the Rocky Top Trail?
Are you planning to hike Rocky Top or visit the Great Smoky Mountains National Park? If so, share your thoughts on the trail below, and let me know if you have any questions that I can help answer!