
Distance (One Way)
Elevation Gain
Trailhead
Location
Water Xing
Trail Description
Panther Creek Trail is a very steep and fairly short hike connecting Jakes Gap to a junction with Middle Prong Trail. It features one unbridged river and 9 other water crossings. You will cross over Panther Creek a total of 10 times. Most of these water crossing are fairly easy to rock hop.
The trail is difficult no matter which way you're headed. If you start from Jakes Creek Trail and descend the 2.3 miles to create a loop hike you'll find that the incline of this trail makes it pretty difficult to carefully walk downhill. There are many rocks and roots. Heel-toe stepping is a necessity. You will cross the unbridged river at this trail's finale just before the intersection with Middle Prong.
But of course ascending Panther Creek Trail is the hard route. The 2.3 mile incline is relentless through woody terrain. The first thing you'll do is cross the river. Rock hopping is possible, but with waterproof boots you're likely to be able to wade through it in calf-deep water. Be sure to consider recent rainfall and general weather conditions before committing to hike this trail.
[+ Read More]Trail Difficulty Scales Explained
Elevation Grade
11%
Very Steep
Paul Petzoldt Scale
5
Moderate
5
10
15
Shenandoah Scale
79
Moderate
50
100
150
Hiker Tips & Trivia
- Bring extra socks if you plan on navigating this trail
Photo Gallery (8)








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- Gregory Ridge Trail (Gregory Bald) (5 mi)
- Grotto Falls (Trillium Gap Trail) (1.4 mi)
- Hannah Mountain Trail (9.5 mi)
- Hatcher Mountain Trail (2.6 mi)
- Huskey Gap Trail (4.1 mi)
- Jakes Creek Trail (3.3 mi)
- Kephart Prong Trail (2 mi)
- Laurel Falls Trail (4 mi)
- Lead Cove Trail (1.8 mi)
- Little Bottoms Trail (2.3 mi)
- Little Brier Gap Trail (Walker Sisters Cabin) (1.4 mi)
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The above list of hiking trails in the Smokies is incomplete and constantly being updated. If you have information or photos you would like to contribute, please contact [email protected]