Parson Branch Road

Total Miles
7.9

Elevation

851.20 ft

Duration

1 Hours

Technical Rating

2

Easy

Best Time

Spring, Summer, Fall

Trail Overview

Parson Branch is a full gravel, one-way, scenic route that leads through the Smoky Mountains. The road is maintained, however, you may find the occasional tree down after heavy storms. This is usually not a problem. There are also many shallow water crossings, all less than 1ft deep. 4WD is not needed at all for the route and is friendly for stock-height vehicles.

Photos of Parson Branch Road

Parson Branch Road
Parson Branch Road
Parson Branch Road

Difficulty

One vehicle wide with occasional pull-offs. One-way route. Many shallow water crossings, all less than 1ft deep. Possibility of trees on the road after heavy storms. If not for those mentioned, I would give this trail a 1 for its rating.

History

The route was completed in 1838. It connects Cades Cove to Tail of the Dragon.

Technical Rating

2

Status Reports

Brandon Defeo
Apr 28, 2024
4x4
Open
Normal
Gautam Shirsekar
Apr 27, 2024
2019 Toyota 4Runner
Open
Brandy Crothers
Apr 21, 2024
4x4
Open
Muddy/Wet
Really cool trail with all the stream crossings. Some rocky areas but overall easy trail with beautiful scenery
Lucas Shearon
Apr 18, 2024
4x4
Open
Normal

Access Description

The Parson Branch Road is only accessible through Cades Cove, about a half mile past the John P. Cable Mill.

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