Mt. Sterling via Baxter Creek Trail
Hike Number: 503
Area Location: Smoky Mountain National Park
Trailhead Location: Big Creek campground
Trailend Location: same
Hike Type: In and Out
Hiking Distance (miles): 12.4
Difficulty: Very Difficult
Elevation Range: 1,715 / 5,842
Total Elevation Gain: 4,100
Total Elevation Descent: 4,100
Trail Description: follow Baxter Creek trail to summit of Mt. Sterling. Difficult because of 4100' ascent, but the trail is even and well-graded.:-)
Topos: Cove Creek Gap
Special Features: 360* Panoramic View
Flower Season: April-May
DriveHead: Westgate Shopping Center
2nd Meeting Place: Pilot Truck Stop, I40 at Exit 24
Driving Distance(Miles-RT): 110
Driving Directions: I-26 E to I-40 W to Waterville exit 451; left under I-40 and follow road to GSMNP Deep Creek campground
Notes: Forest changes from mixed deciduous to Balsam/Spruce at higher elevations.
Hike History: A0001, A0601, A0801