Unlike most summits in the Appalachian Mountains, which are heavily forested or culminate in jagged peaks, grassy balds are covered by a thick layer of wild grass.

[3] In a few places atop the mountain, sandstone ruts actually erupt through the thick grass.

The Elkmont sandstone is part of the Ocoee Supergroup, which was formed from ancient ocean sediments between 500 million and one billion years ago.

[5] The rabbit, considered by the Cherokee to be sly and mischievous, was a key figure in tribal legends, showing the importance the tribe placed upon the mountain.

Gregory used the mountain to graze cattle during the spring and summer, when the fields in the cove were needed for growing crops.

[8] Gregory, who (like most Cades Covers) supported the Union during the American Civil War.

Visible to the east is the crest of the Smokies, including Thunderhead Mountain and Kuwohi.