This hike, which features old-growth trees, is steeped in the history of the Smokies. Deemed to be the best maintained trail in Cataloochee, the Boogerman Trail is a good introduction to the Cataloochee Valley. The valley is bisected by the Cataloochee Road.

The hike starts on Caldwell Fork Trail and soon turns onto the Boogerman Trail where most of the old-growth trees are located. The Boogerman Trail is a semi-circle east of Caldwell Fork. On your return, you cross Caldwell Fork about ten times.

Length: 7.5 miles
Altitude gain: 1,150 ft.

Map: Great Smoky Mountains National Park National Geographic Trails Illustrated # 229.

Trailhead: From I-40, exit 20/U.S. 276 south, turn right onto Cove Creek Road, 0.3 miles after the exit. Drive 6 miles to Cove Creek Gap, the entrance to the park and another 1.8 miles into the valley. At the four-way intersection, turn left. After 3.4 miles, pass the campground and park on the left after the Caldwell Fork trailhead.