Big Laurel Branch Wilderness

Big Laurel Branch Wilderness is a protected natural area with mixed hardwood forests and mountain streams in Cherokee National Forest. The landscape features narrow valleys and flowing water that shape how the terrain looks and feels.

Congress protected this wilderness in 1986 through the Tennessee Wilderness Act to preserve its natural state. The designation marked an official commitment to keeping the area unchanged and accessible only through traditional means.

The area draws hikers who respect strict rules against motors and machinery in order to preserve the land. Visitors experience a way of outdoor recreation that relies on foot travel and personal effort rather than modern conveniences.

The Appalachian Trail crosses through the wilderness for about 5.8 miles and includes a shelter roughly halfway along. Plan to walk on uneven ground and be ready for changing mountain weather.

Two parallel valleys, Big Laurel Branch and Little Laurel Branch, run between the double ridges of Iron Mountain. Water cascades about 50 feet into a lake below, creating a dramatic natural feature often missed by passing hikers.

Location: Tennessee

GPS coordinates: 36.35060,-82.08690

Latest update: December 14, 2025 11:23