Epic Trails Ahead: 9 Best Hikes in Great Smoky Mountains You Need to Experience
Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a hiker’s paradise! Trails lead explorers to spectacular forests, fields, and lake views.
Planning a memorable outdoor adventure without breaking the bank can be both exciting and challenging. If Gatlinburg is on your radar, get ready for an unforgettable adventure! Known as the doorway to the awe-inspiring Great Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg offers access to some of the most breathtaking hikes and natural beauty in the country.
Whether you’re traveling with family or as a couple, these scenic adventures promise to be memorable and kind to your wallet. Explore picturesque trails, immerse yourself in stunning mountain vistas, and enjoy the abundant wildlife of the Smokies.
The Great Smoky Mountain National Park hikes cater to both beginners and seasoned hikers, making it an ideal destination for anyone looking to connect with nature. Join us as we delve into the best Smoky Mountain hikes, taking the guesswork out of your travel planning and helping you create a trip filled with wonderful memories.
Unveiling Hidden Gems: Best Trails in Smoky Mountains
Easy Hikes: If you’re new to hiking or simply looking for a relaxed adventure, the easy hikes around Gatlinburg are perfect for exploring with your loved ones. These Smoky Mountains trails offer gentle paths and breathtaking views, making them ideal for visitors seeking a peaceful escape.
Gatlinburg Trails: The best trails in the Smoky Mountains for families with young children or those looking to enjoy the natural beauty at a more leisurely pace is the Gatlinburg Trail. This 1.9-mile trail stretches between Gatlinburg and the Sugarlands Visitor Center, offering scenic glimpses of the Little Pigeon River along with charming footbridges.
The path is well-maintained and mostly flat, making it one of the best hikes in Great Smoky Mountains for beginners.
Sugarlands Valley Nature Trail: Another excellent option is the Sugarlands Valley Nature Trail. Known for its accessibility, this half-mile loop is paved, ideal for strollers and wheelchairs, and features interpretative signage that highlights the area’s unique flora and fauna.
Laurel Falls: Embarking on the Laurel Falls Trail, you are in for one of the best hikes in the Great Smoky Mountains, especially if you’re visiting with family. This scenic hike in the Smoky Mountains is a must-see, with captivating views that offer both natural beauty and a hint of adventure.
Being one of the best Pigeon Forge hiking, this trail promises a memorable journey through lush forests that cloak the landscape in serene shades of green. The short hike is 2.6 miles round-trip.
Related Post: Cheap Things to Do in Pigeon Forge – 13 Budget-Friendly Options
It takes most hikers about an hour and a half to make it to and from Laurel Falls. The paved path means the hike will be smooth all the way! This is one of the best easy waterfall hikes in the Smoky Mountains.
Elkmont Nature Trail: Nestled within the scenic Elkmont area, the Elkmont Nature Trail provides an easy, family-friendly hike that immerses you in the natural beauty of the Great Smoky Mountain National Park.
The trailhead is conveniently located off Little River Road, making it an easy addition to your list of best hiking near Pigeon Forge, especially if you’re staying in nearby Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge. This trail offers a gentle introduction to Smoky Mountain hikes, making it perfect for families seeking best hikes near Pigeon Forge.
As you meander along the path, you’ll be treated to picturesque Smoky Mountain views, lush forests, and a chance to spot some of the area’s abundant smoky mountain wildlife.
It’s an ideal choice for those interested in easy hikes the Great Smoky Mountains can offer, allowing you to connect with nature without the challenge of more strenuous hiking trails Smoky Mountains.
Moderate Hikes: Moderate hikes in the Smoky Mountains offer a perfect balance of challenge and exploration, making them ideal for adventurers seeking just the right amount of exertion.
Abrams Falls Trail: Seeking a bit more adventure? The Abrams Falls Trail, located past the tenth stop in Cades Cove, spans about 5 miles round-trip. It features a stunning waterfall and abundant wildlife, making it a top pick for a more immersive Great Smoky Mountains hiking guide.
Related Post: Smoky Mountains Hiking – 7 Easy Hikes for Stunning Views
Clingmans Dome: Nestled in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Clingmans Dome is a remarkable destination for those seeking breathtaking smoky mountain views. As the highest point in the park, it offers an unparalleled panoramic vista that will captivate your senses.
The hike to the Clingmans Dome Tower, while a bit less steep than some challenging trails, is truly rewarding for families and couples alike. This moderate hike spans about a 1-mile round trip, making it one of the best hikes in the Great Smoky Mountains for those wanting a bit of a challenge without overexerting.
Along the way, you’ll traverse a paved path that winds through lush, verdant forests, graced by iconic Smoky mountain wildlife.
Rainbow Falls Trail: Rainbow Falls Trail is a gem for those seeking to experience the best hikes in the Great Smoky Mountains. Located near Gatlinburg, this trail offers a more challenging adventure among the scenic hikes Smoky Mountains.
Related Post: Smoky Mountain Theater – Discount Tickets & Reviews
A unique highlight of this hike is the namesake waterfall itself. Rainbow Falls stands at 80 feet, and on sunny days, visitors might catch a glimpse of the ethereal rainbow that often appears in its misty spray.
This captivating sight makes it one of the best hikes in Gatlinburg for families and couples alike. If you’re considering hiking in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, this trail is a remarkable choice thanks to its combination of natural beauty and invigorating challenge.
Difficult Hikes: For those seeking a challenge, the difficult hikes in the Smoky Mountains offer rigorous trails that promise adventure and breathtaking views, perfect for avid hikers looking to test their limits.
Alum Cave Trail to Mount LeConte: For those eager to tackle something more strenuous, the Alum Cave Trail to Mount LeConte is an unforgettable experience.
This 11-mile round-trip hike offers breathtaking Smoky Mountain views and unique geological formations such as Arch Rock and Alum Cave Bluff. The climb is steep and challenging but is touted as one of the best hikes in the Smoky Mountains.
Chimney Tops Trail: Another formidable option is the Chimney Tops Trail. Though just 3.3 miles round-trip, the trail demands endurance and stamina due to its steep ascent. Once at the top, hikers are rewarded with panoramic views that make it all worthwhile.
Related Post: Zipline Smoky Mountain – 7 Best for Spectacular Views and Fun
Ramsey Cascades Trail: Venture into the heart of Great Smoky Mountain National Park and experience the splendor of Ramsey Cascades Trail, a true gem among Smoky Mountain hikes. This trail is perfect for those seeking a challenge and offers one of the most rewarding views of cascading waters among the best hikes in the Great Smoky Mountains.
This hike is well worth the effort, rewarding you with scenic beauty and a great workout. While it may be challenging, it is still suitable for adventurous families with older children looking for an unforgettable experience.
Smoky Mountain Hikes FAQs
What Is The Most Popular Waterfall in the Smoky Mountains?
Laurel Falls stands out as the most popular waterfall in the Smoky Mountains, drawing countless visitors each year. Its picturesque cascade and accessible trail make it a top choice for both seasoned hikers and families looking for a leisurely adventure.
Can You Swim at Abrams Falls?
Wondering if you can swim at Abrams Falls? While it is not officially recommended due to strong currents and hidden dangers, many adventurous visitors still take a dip. Abrams Falls has a deep swimming hole that attracts visitors between late spring and early fall, enticing those seeking a refreshing experience amid stunning scenery.
Embark on an Adventure: Discover the Unmatched Beauty of Smoky Mountain Hikes
As you lace up your hiking boots and set out on your adventure in the Smoky Mountains, remember that each trail offers its own story and wonder. Whether it’s the gentle embrace of an easy trail or the exhilarating challenge of a more difficult path, there’s a perfect hike waiting just for you!
Once you’ve had your fill of nature’s splendor, why not dive into the exciting array of attractions, shows, and hotels waiting for you while hiking Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg? With Tripster, you can create a vacation package that fits your budget and interests. Plan your unforgettable getaway with Tripster and discover the magic of the Smokies beyond the trails!
We’d Love to Hear From You!
Share your personal experiences or ask any questions in the comments below—we’re eager to hear your thoughts on exploring the Smoky Mountains!
