This hike begins at the familiar Groundhog Ridge parking area with a climb up one of the branches of Groundhog Creek to the Lower Mount Cammerer Trail. This trail is used to zip around the mountain to Robinson Creek where the narrow valley leads up into the Highlands. The climb then turns toward the Panther Stairs as the trek passes by four nice waterfalls set in a broad almost gentle valley. These gentle slopes give way to the cliffs beneath the Panther Stairs. At this point, the hike becomes a scramble up the open sandstone faces and along narrow spine of Panther Stairs affording excellent views into the Smoky Mountain valleys below. The hike will proceed to the Mount Cammerer Lookout Tower and then return by the old Groundhog Ridge manway. Total trip is 5.2 miles, 3.8 being off trail. Rated difficult. Previous off-trail experience encouraged. Please contact trip leader to get details, including meeting time and place.

Pre-registration is required. Masks are now required for all those participating in carpools, shuttles or key swaps, regardless of vaccination status. You may also choose to drive your own vehicle to the trailhead.

Leaders: Greg Harrell and Greg Hoover

Leader contact information is included under Additional Information in the email you receive after registration.