Twenty Mile Loop Trail

Twenty Mile Loop Trail (Twentymile Area)

Trail Information

Located in the remote Twentymile section of Great Smoky Mountains National Park near Fontana Lake, the Twenty Mile Loop Trail is a quiet backcountry hike accessed from the Twentymile Ranger Station off NC-28. This area is known for its solitude and access to less-traveled trail systems in the southwestern Smokies.

From the Twentymile Trailhead, the hike begins on a wide, gently graded old railroad bed that immediately feels more remote than many of the park’s popular front-country trails. The route follows this historic grade through dense hardwood forest, making for an easy start with a gradual incline and a steady, consistent path underfoot.

As you continue, the trail begins to narrow and transition deeper into backcountry terrain. The loop section of the trail connects with nearby routes such as Wolf Ridge Trail and other backcountry junctions, allowing hikers to create longer loop options or extend toward the Appalachian Trail system.

The full Twenty Mile Loop is typically completed as a longer day hike or backpacking route, with the return portion following the loop back through quiet forest, ridge transitions, and old railroad sections. The experience is defined more by solitude and forest immersion than dramatic overlooks or waterfalls.

Trail Features

• Scenic Highlights: Quiet, remote forest hiking with ridge transitions and deep woodland scenery
• Terrain: Starts on a wide, gently graded railroad bed before narrowing into traditional backcountry trail
• Water Features: Occasional seasonal streams and small crossings depending on rainfall
• Wildlife & Flora: Dense Appalachian forest with deer, wild turkey, songbirds, and seasonal wildflowers
• Photo Opportunities: Quiet forest corridors, old railroad grade sections, and ridge woodland views
• Unique Elements: Follows a historic railroad grade and connects into a larger backcountry trail network in the Smokies
• Seasonal Highlights: Spring brings fresh greenery and wildflowers; summer offers cool, shaded forest hiking; fall provides strong color in the upper elevations; winter is quiet but more rugged and exposed

Trail Essentials

• Insider Tip: This is a true backcountry loop—plan your route carefully, as signage can be minimal in junction areas
• Good For: Experienced hikers, backpackers, solitude seekers, and long-distance loop hikers
• What to Bring: Water, navigation tools (map or GPS), sturdy hiking boots, and weather-appropriate gear
• Fees & Rules: Located within Great Smoky Mountains National Park—parking tag required; dogs are not allowed on trails

Quick Trail Snapshot

• Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous (depending on loop length chosen)
• Style: Backcountry loop / hiking or backpacking
• Crowds: Very low—one of the quieter trail systems in the park
• Best Use: Full-day hike or overnight backpacking trip