The hike to Rocky Top and the summit of Thunderhead Mountain begins from the Anthony Creek Trailhead, located in the Cades Cove picnic area. To reach the trailhead from the Townsend “Y” intersection, drive 7.5 miles west on Laurel Creek Road to the turn-off for the Cades Cove Campground. Turn left towards the campground, and then almost immediately make another left turn toward the picnic area. The Anthony Creek Trailhead is located at the far end of the picnic area.
To reach Rocky Top and Thunderhead Mountain, hikers should continue walking eastbound along the Appalachian Trail. Thunderhead Mountain actually consists of three summits, all of which are visible from the eastern end of Spence Field. The first summit (or sub-peak) is known as Rocky Top.