There are some trails that leave a lasting impression not because they are covered in spectacular blooms, but because of the quiet experience they offer. My recent hike on the Lumber Ridge Trail in Great Smoky Mountains National Park was one of those days.

I started at the trailhead near the Tremont Institute, about two miles up Tremont Road from Little River Road just east of the Townsend Wye. The four-mile trail is generally considered moderately difficult, but it rewards hikers with peaceful forest scenery and, on this trip, an unforgettable blanket of fog.

The fog transformed the trail into something almost magical. It softened the surrounding woods, muted every sound and created the kind of atmosphere that makes you slow your pace and simply enjoy being outdoors. I included a photo of the trail disappearing into the fog because it captures an experience that words alone cannot fully describe.

While the wildflower display was modest, there were still plenty of blooms worth stopping to admire. Coreopsis, Curtiss milkwort, Saint Andrew’s cross and star grass were all at peak bloom. Blue asters and goldenrod were just beginning to make their seasonal appearance, hinting that late-summer color is on the way.

The accompanying photos highlight Starry Campion, Coreopsis and, of course, the fog-covered Lumber Ridge Trail itself.

Not every hike delivers fields of colorful flowers, but every trail has something unique to offer. On Lumber Ridge, it was the peaceful solitude, the cool mountain air and the rare opportunity to walk through a forest wrapped in fog. Sometimes those quiet moments become the most memorable part of the journey.

 

Wildflower observations:
• Black-eyed Susan — Few; past peak bloom.
• Blue asters — Few; just starting to bloom.
• Coreopsis — Few; at peak bloom.
• Curtiss milkwort — Few; at peak bloom.
• False foxglove — Few; past peak bloom.
• Goldenrod — Some; just starting to bloom.
• Horse nettle — Two plants; past peak bloom.
• Joe Pye weed — Few.
• Saint Andrew’s cross — Few; at peak bloom.
• Spotted jewelweed — Few; well past peak bloom.
• Star grass — Few; at peak bloom.
• Starry campion — Few; past peak bloom.
• Tick trefoil — Few; past peak bloom.
• White-top aster — Some; well past peak bloom.

Tom Harrington is a regular hiker who reports on his hikes and mountain stories from the Smokies.

Enjoyed this article? Explore more Hiking with Harrington by Tom Harrington.

Follow KnoxTNToday on Facebook and Instagram and subscribe to our free newsletter to receive every new article in one convenient email.