The Russell Field Trail turns right off the Anthony Creek Trail and enters into some of the last old-growth forest in the west end of the park. It follows the Left Prong of Anthony Creek as it begins to climb from Cades Cove to the Appalachian Trail. It crosses several spring branches, which can be easily crossed by rock hop, as it begins to ascend through rhododendron and hemlock stands.
Past campsite #10, the trail continues to climb and is more difficult due to its steepness and heavy horse usage. The trail climbs Leadbetter Ridge until you reach Russell Field, which is slowly being reclaimed by the forest since farmers are no longer feeding their cattle here in the summers. Take time to explore the old pasture before you start climbing again to approach the Russell Field Shelter on the Appalachian Trail.
The shelter is a great place to have lunch or take a break from all of the climbing that you have been doing. After taking a break, you have several options. You can go back down the trail to your car, or you can hike along the Appalachian Trail until you reach Spence Field.
The Russell Field – Spence Field loop hike begins from the Anthony Creek Trailhead, located in the Cades Cove picnic area.