Cataloochee Turnpike to Big Creek

Total Miles 12.3
Technical Rating
2 Easy
Best Time Spring, Summer, Fall
Trail Type Full-Width Road
Accessible By
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Cataloochee Turnpike to Big Creek trail photo

Trail Overview

Gravel Road through the GSMNP Cataloochee area to Big Creek. The road is suitable for most vehicles, but higher clearance is recommended due to some rocky areas. The road will close during significant weather events like snowstorms, so checking the road status before departing is best. There are lovely vistas and creek/river areas. The road climbs from the valley floor over Mt. Sterling.

Photos of Cataloochee Turnpike to Big Creek

Difficulty

Gravel/Dirt road with decent elevation gain. Road will close during inclement weather events like snow. Suitable for most cars but higher clearance recommended due to some rocky areas. Low clearance vehicles may have a harder ride.

Technical Rating

2

Status Reports

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Christopher White
Nov 08, 2025
Open
bridge is still out and bypass through the creek has been blocked by large boulders on either side
Craig LaBell
Oct 11, 2025
Open
Bridge is still closed but bypass through the creek for offroad vehicles is open.
Adam Thomas
Sep 07, 2025
Open
the state has shut down the bridge due to rusting of bolts
Andrew Bell
Aug 22, 2025
Open
Buzzard Roost closed due to I-40 reconstruction
Michael Reaves
Jul 27, 2025
Open
Ranger said Turnpike is closed to do damage sustained to the Bridge and there is no current schedule for reopening. You can run up to the gate and back around to the Camping Area.
Donald Sawyer
May 31, 2025
Open
There is currently construction on the bridge over the Cataloochee Creek.
Andrew claytor
Apr 25, 2025
Open
Seth Hughes
Mar 05, 2025
Open
Gate closed
Elijah Tialavea
Jan 05, 2025
Open
Sean M
Dec 21, 2024
Open
Joshua Hicks
Sep 09, 2024
Open
Easy trail for riding. More Subarus than you can shake a stick at. If you go left towards the lookout and ranger station there is a valley of elk which is neat
Tisha Bates
Aug 09, 2024
Open
Three wild boar, follow the map, you have no cell service at all and if you want it leads to big creek trail also ties into old rooster trail as well. But you can exit around Newport TN area onto 40.
Z. Trent
Jun 13, 2024
Open
Trail was an easy drive with a few rutted / rocky areas.
Norm Lathrop
Apr 02, 2024
Open
Jan Maibaum
Mar 24, 2024
Open
Pretty easy road. Beautiful for Sunday ride. Manageable with normal car if you have 4wd. Can be busy on sunny days. Good for beginners

Cataloochee Turnpike to Big Creek Trail can be accessed by the following ride types:

  • High Clearance
  • Full Width

Cataloochee Turnpike to Big Creek Map

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