boogerman trail

Hiking the mountains of Western North Carolina

This trail is named for Robert "Boogerman" Palmer, whose home site is located on the trail. Located in Cataloochee in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, this seven-mile loop includes old home sites and mountain streams. Take the Caldwell Fork Trail, and then cross Cataloochee Creek. When the trail splits, continue to the right and climb a long Caldwell Fork. At mile 2.8 you'll encounter the Palmer home site. After five miles, the trail crosses Snake Branch. Continue by crossing Caldwell Fork via footbridges. The trail loops back to Cataloochee creek.

Length: 7.4 total miles
Elevation Gain: 1,150 feet
Trail Type: Loop
Skill Level: Moderate
Duration: Day hike
Trailhead Elevation: 2,600 feet
Top Elevation: 3,750 feet

Directions from Asheville

1. Take I-40 W to exit 20.
2. Continue west on 276.
3. Turn right on Cove Creek Rd.
4. Turn left on Cataloochee Rd.

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