Fall color continues to provide a beautiful display in the Great Smoky Mountains, and Chestnut Top Trail near Townsend offers hikers a variety of colorful foliage, late-season wildflowers and scenic mountain views.
During a Nov. 2 hike, blue asters were plentiful, with several varieties mostly at peak bloom. Goldenrod and other late-season wildflowers were still visible, although most had passed their peak.
The foliage was particularly impressive, with sourwood trees providing what Harrington described as “beyond outstanding displays.”
Wildflowers spotted
- Blue asters: Many, with several varieties mostly at peak bloom.
- Erect goldenrod: A few, past peak bloom, along with several other varieties of goldenrod.
- White snakeroot: A few, past peak bloom.
- White top asters: Some, past peak bloom, along with several other varieties of white asters.
Fall foliage highlights
Among the trees displaying colorful foliage were:
- Beech
- Hickory
- Mountain maple
- Red maple
- Red oak (both kinds)
- Sassafras
- Sourwood — beyond outstanding displays
- Tulip poplar
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- Overlooking Townsend from Chestnut Top Trail
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- Chestnut Top Trail
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- Chestnut Top Trail
About Chestnut Top Trail
Chestnut Top Trail begins at the Townsend Wye, across the road from the parking areas, and extends 4.3 miles to its junction with Schoolhouse Gap Trail, approximately 2 miles from Laurel Creek Road.
Harrington notes that the trail would be considered strenuous by the average hiker. The first half-mile is particularly steep, with challenging footing that requires care.
The trail rewards hikers with colorful hardwood forests and scenic views, including an overlook toward Townsend, which was covered in fog during Harrington’s visit.
For those considering a late-season hike, Chestnut Top offers an opportunity to experience the changing mountain landscape, but hikers should be prepared for the steep terrain and changing weather conditions.
Photos by Tom Harrington: Fall foliage along Chestnut Top Trail and a fog-covered view overlooking Townsend.
