The Trails We Walk

Low Gap via Appalachian Trail

Overview

This trail, if followed out, comes out at a farm on Cross Mountain.

This is a short section of the Appalachian Trail that passes by Double Springs Shelter. Plenty of camping and water are available.

Great hike for younger or beginner hikers. This route does not complete the section. It stops near the 2 mile mark at a mountain meadow. It is not meant to be strenuous. Perfect for a short hike.

Trail at a Glance

Location
Located off of HWY 421 between Bristol, TN and Mountain City, TN. Low Gap is a crossing point for the Appalachian Trail.
Route
This route does not seek to lead anywhere. It's only destination is enjoyment. Much of the trail is spent in think forest.
Terrain
The terrain is uneven with some loose rocks and roots.
Water
Water is available at the beginning from a spring just behind the trailhead.
Seasonal considerations
This trail can become slick in wet or colder weather.

Route details

  • Low Gap via Appalachian Trail

    Great hike for a short day out. This trail stops in a mountain meadow. Looking toward the intersection of Hwy 91 and Hwy 421.

    Distance
    3.7 miles round trip
    Estimated time
    Approximately 3-4 hours
    Trail type
    Out and back
    Difficulty
    0.75 out of 5 (Low difficulty with some harder sections.)
    Elevation
    About 740 ft of climbing
TrailheadParking

Key Points

  • Easy to Park Parking is available at the trailhead and across the highway.
  • Steep Start The beginning of the trail immediately introduces the hiker to a steep grade.
  • Flat Enough After the first climb the trail allows the hiker to catch their breath as it levels out. A few dips and climbs dot the trail.
  • Push to the Meadow The meadow sits at the end of a steep section of the trail. It is a welcome spot to rest your legs.
  • The Return Returning feels easier. The climbs and descents are reversed.
  • The final Descent The climb that brought you to the trail is now a gentle descent to the end.

Walking the Trail

This short section of a section is pleasant to walk. Early morning fogs provide a mystery to the trail when walked in the right season.

There is plenty of wildlife to be seen most of the year. Parts of this section feel untouched as you walk through them.

From the start this trail asks you to lock in. The steep ascent into the trail itself lets you know this trail needs attention.

There are no grand views to be seen as the climb begins. The trail holds its secret until the meadow.

This trail brings a sense of quiet rest that other parts do not. Almost a hushed section of the Appalachian Trail that winds its way through East Tennessee.

The return brings you back to the highway and the life you stepped away from for a short time.

Before You Go

Being prepared for this trail is more about preparing to slow down than anything else.

While it may be gentle even in the ascents it does ask a little more of you because of the ascents. They are not as steep or as long as some sections of this trail but your legs will feel them the next day if you are not used to hiking up hills.

Good shoes with deep tread is best, especially during rainy or colder weather.

Trekking poles are recommended.

Walk it with Eremos

Upcoming Events

Upcoming hikes on this trail

Connect with Eremos | Experience the Wilderness | Guided Christian Hikes

Experience the Wilderness

Not sure where to start?

You don’t need to decide everything before beginning.

Each experience offers a different rhythm of time, distance, and attention… but all of them begin in the same place: slowing down and becoming present.

If you’re unsure, start with what feels most accessible.

Or begin with the Solitude Guide if you want to start by practicing attention where you are.

Still not sure? Let Eremos help.

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