Kephart Prong Trail to Historic CCC Camp
A moderate streamside hike across five log bridges to the remains of a Civilian Conservation Corps camp and Kephart Shelter.
Route overview
Kephart Prong follows the line of an old jeep road through hardwood forest. Its defining features are the mountain streams and five railed log footbridges crossed en route to structural remains from a historic CCC camp. The maintained day-hike objective ends around Kephart Shelter before retracing the route to Newfound Gap Road. The historical setting and gradual but meaningful climb make it a strong progression from the park’s short nature trails.
Trail facts
- Country
- United States
- Distance
- 6.4 km / 4.0 mi return
- Typical duration
- 2–3 hours
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Elevation gain
- 253 m / 830 ft
- Best season
- spring through autumn; possible ice, high water and storm debris outside stable conditions
- Trail type
- out-and-back
Safety context
Trailhead parking is a small highway pull-off and may be unavailable. Do not create unsafe roadside parking; use a shuttle or alternative destination. Bridges, stairs, wet timber and stream margins may be slick. Day hikers must not treat the shelter as guaranteed accommodation, and overnight use requires the proper reservation and permit. Check current official conditions, closures, weather and access rules before departure.
Trailhead parking is a small highway pull-off and may be unavailable. Do not create unsafe roadside parking; use a shuttle or alternative destination. Bridges, stairs, wet timber and stream margins may be slick. Day hikers must not treat the shelter as guaranteed accommodation, and overnight use requires the proper reservation and permit.
Highlights
`great-smoky-mountains`, `north-carolina`, `ccc-history`, `stream-crossings`, `footbridges`, `moderate-hike`, `forest`, `historic-sites
Why find a buddy
Best for partners comfortable maintaining a steady pace and making group decisions around bridges, water and limited parking. The historical objective gives the group a clear shared destination without requiring a summit.
Primary source
Explore and prepare
Discover hikes by intent, read the hiking guides, review hiking safety, prepare a BuddyPack, or browse hiking plans.
Route conditions, access, services and transport can change. Verify time-sensitive information before departure.