One of the lesser-known hiking trails on the North Carolina side of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the Kanati Fork Trails follows a creek through the forest for a beautiful hike that can easily be added to an even longer hike high on a mountain ridgeline along the Thomas Divide Trail. Plus, it’s also one of our favorite wildflower hikes in the spring! Here is your guide to hiking the Kanati Fork Trail:
| Trail Length | 5.8 Miles |
| Trail Difficulty | Moderate |
| Trail Highlights | Spring Wildflowers, High Elevation, Creek |
Directions to the Trailhead
The trailhead for the Kanati Fork Trail is located off of Newfound Gap Road on the North Carolina side. The whole road is a popular scenic drive, so you can admire stunning views on your way there. The Kanati Fork trailhead is about 8 miles north of the Oconaluftee Visitor Center. Make sure that you have a Smoky Mountain parking pass on your vehicle before you hit the trail. Purchase one online or at the Oconaluftee Visitor Center. There are also convenient automated kiosks throughout the park.
Trail Description
The Kanati Fork Trail is a moderately challenging trail that is ideal for experienced hikers. It is 5.8 miles roundtrip with over 2,000 feet of elevation gain. The terrain ascends steadily at about 700 feet per mile. You will follow the Kanati Fork Creek for the first section. It is named after a Cherokee hunter who was known as the “First Man.” The trail will then start to climb the ridge above the creek. You’ll encounter a switchback that will take you through a forest. The leaves will provide excellent shade during the summer months. Use caution around the trail’s narrow and rocky portions and in wet areas. Sturdy close-toed shoes will help you maintain your balance. The Kanati Fork Trail ends at the junction with the Thomas Divide Trail. This section is flat, so you can take a welcome break from the steep climbing. Catch your breath and take a long drink of water. You can continue on or turn back and head to the Kanati Fork Trailhead.
Trail Highlights
The best time to hike the Kanati Fork Trail is in late April. This is when the wildflowers are in full bloom. You can expect to see many species, such as trilliums and violets. While they are pretty to look at, it is important to note that picking wildflowers in the Smoky Mountains is prohibited. They only bloom for a short period of time, and we want every hiker to enjoy their beauty in its full glory. Another advantage of doing this hike in the spring is that you’ll get better views of the Kanati Fork Creek due to the lack of dense foliage. You may also get the opportunity to see some wildlife. Maintain a distance of at least 150 feet away from them. Additionally, keep any snacks contained when you’re not eating and pick up after yourself.
Now you know all about the Kanati Fork Trail! Do you want to explore more North Carolina Smoky Mountains hiking options? Read all about the Deep Creek Waterfall Loop!
