Does anyone have recent trail conditions or any trip information about the springhouse branch trail in the GSMNP. Thanks

Does anyone have trip information or trail conditions about the Sringhouse Branch Trail in the GSMNP. I have read that it is strenuous and not often traveled but these were from years back. Any info is greatly appreciated. Thanks

Springhouse climbs at a moderate grade from both the Noland Creek and Forney Creek drainages. I have done runs on the trail from both sides and I remember the Forney side being a longer climb. Nothing super steep as the whole thing is runnable...just a long constant climb.

You shouldn't have any issues with conditions. There are no major water crossings on Springhouse and snow has been non-existent this year and generally is not an issue below 4k ft in the Smokies anyways. You will see very few to no people at all on Springhouse...especially in the winter months (my favorite time in GSMNP).

We have had alot of rain in the last couple weeks. The Forney Creek trail has 7 crossings and that might be an issue at the west end of Springhouse Branch.

There are no unbridged creek crossings on Forney Creek south of the Springhouse intersection -- so you'll stay dry if making a loop with Whiteoak or Lakeshore. The 7 creek crossings are all on Forney Creek north of Springhouse on the way to Clingmans. Some of those are deep crossings that would not be fun during the winter.

Thanks for the info. I have backpacked the Big Creek area a few times. I'm trying to explore some different loop possibilities and see something different. Thanks again! Jim