About
Length7.4 mi
ShapeLoop
DifficultyModerate
Elevation gain1,100 ft up
Typical time4 hr 15 min
TrailheadCaldwell Fork trailhead, Cataloochee
SurfaceForest path with many creek crossings
Best seasonApril to June for wildflowers, mid-October for fall colour. High elevations are cold and icy from November to March.
DogsNot allowed
What you'll see 🌊 River or creek🌲 Old growth🏛️ Historic site

A quiet Cataloochee loop through old growth and past stone walls from a vanished farm.

Tips
Named for Robert "Boogerman" Palmer, who refused to sell his timber, which is why the big trees are still standing. Numerous log-bridge crossings. Elk are usually in the Cataloochee fields at dusk.
Location

Caldwell Fork trailhead, Cataloochee

🎒 What to pack

A 7.4 mi walk — here's the short list worth having in the pack.

Other Hikers
No one has logged this trail yet.
Your Hikes

🔒 Login or create an account to record the trails you've done, rate them, and tie them to a trip.

Trail data: USGS National Map / PAD-US, the National Park Service, state agencies, and © OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL). Access and conditions change — check with the managing agency before you go.