Big Frog is one of the least-known wilderness areas in the Southeast. That's a bonus. You can go all weekend and see maybe two other parties.
The route
Start at the Ocoee Whitewater Center parking. Hike in on the Big Frog Trail, 8 miles to the summit camp. Set up there day one.
Day two, out-and-back to the Big Frog summit (0.5 mi) in the morning, then drop down the Wolf Ridge trail, hit the Rough Creek junction, and loop back via the Benton MacKaye. 12 miles. Camp at Rough Creek campsite.
Day three, easy 2 miles out.
Why it's special
Old-growth hemlock stands. Some of the largest trees east of the Smokies. The summit bald has views south into north Georgia on a clear day.
What to know
Water is unreliable on the ridge. Fill up at Rough Creek or at the small spring half a mile below the summit. In fall, the spring can be dry. Plan accordingly.
Trail is rough in places. Blowdowns aren't cleared as often as in national parks. Leave extra time.
What I carried
- 45L pack, 28 pounds loaded
- Durston X-Mid, 15-degree bag, R4.2 pad
- Jetboil, one canister, freeze-dried meals
- Sawyer Squeeze plus 2L dirty bag
- Light rain shell, midweight fleece, base layers
- Heavier first aid than usual. Remote area, longer self-rescue.
The drive
From Nashville, 3 hours. From Memphis, 5.5. Worth it either way if you have three days. Pair it with a half day at the Ocoee river on the way back.
