Caldwell Fork Trail is a moderate trail which follows a rushing mountain river.
There are several foot bridges along Caldwell Fork Trail which will keep you from getting your feet wet. The trail is a very popular area for horse traffic, so it is very muddy in places. You will travel through a beautiful old poplar forest which is especially beautiful during the fall season when the leaves turn yellow, red, gold, and orange. One of the largest trees along the route is 8 feet in diameter. You will also see American beech, red maple, and white oak trees.
The Trail is 6.3 miles.
Caldwell Fork Trail is great for winter hiking. It is located in the Cataloochee area of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. There you will see beautiful elk, an occasional bear and breathtaking scenery.
From Waterville, NC, take the winding SR 32 south. Bear left at the fork and continue to the Cataloochee Ranger Station. The trail begins between the campground and the ranger station.