Lumber Ridge TrailModerate

Lumber Ridge Trail starts in the same place as the unofficial Spruce Flats Falls trail at the Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont. The 4.1 mile out and back hike is rarely crowded and makes for a peaceful walk in the woods.

After parking near the Tremont store, you will work your way up a gravel road (follow the orange cones) toward the GSMIT dormitories and find the trailhead on the left. Just after passing the trail sign you'll see the small marker for Spruce Flats Falls, about a mile to your right.

Like most ridge trails, Lumber Ridge trail winds up and around steep forest hills and valleys. The first 2.5 miles are a steady uphill climb gaining about 1200 feet of elevation. You'll find yourself at a wide, almost open part of the trail when you reach the highest point. After that, the trail goes slightly downhill and uphill again before reaching the intersection with Meigs Creek Trail and Meigs Mountain Trail.

The trail can be hiked in a loop back down a manway toward Spruce Flats Falls.