The Great Smoky Mountains National Park, straddling the border of Tennessee and North Carolina, is a hiker’s paradise. With over 800 miles of trails winding through lush forests, past thundering waterfalls, and up to mist-shrouded peaks, the Smokies offer adventures for every skill level.
Here’s some of the best hiking trails you’ll want to explore.
Alum Cave Trail
This moderate 5.5-mile round trip hike leads to Alum Cave Bluffs, a concave cliff face with stunning views. The trail features unique geological formations, including Arch Rock and Inspiration Point, making it a favorite among photographers and nature enthusiasts.
Chimney Tops Trail
Don’t let its short 4-mile round trip length fool you; Chimney Tops is a challenging hike with a steep ascent. The panoramic views from the rocky pinnacle make the climb worthwhile, especially during fall when the foliage is ablaze with color.
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Andrews Bald via Forney Ridge Trail
This moderate 3.6-mile round trip hike leads to the highest bald in the Smokies. The grassy meadow at the top offers breathtaking 360-degree views of the surrounding mountains, perfect for a picnic with a view.
Charlies Bunion via Appalachian Trail
This tough 8-mile round trip hike along the famous Appalachian Trail rewards hikers with spectacular views from a rocky outcropping. Keep an eye out for through-hikers tackling the entire 2,190-mile AT!
Ramsey Cascades Trail
The 8-mile round trip to Ramsey Cascades is challenging but culminates at the park’s tallest waterfall. The trail winds through old-growth forest, showcasing some of the largest trees in the Smokies.
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Clingmans Dome Observation Tower Trail
This short, paved, 1-mile round trip trail leads to the highest point in the Smokies. On clear days, the 360-degree views from the observation tower can extend up to 100 miles.
Mount LeConte via Alum Cave Trail
This strenuous 11-mile round-trip hike to the third-highest peak in the park is a bucket-list item for many hikers. LeConte Lodge at the top offers rustic accommodations for those wanting to spend the night at 6,593 feet.
Laurel Falls Trail
This paved 2.6-mile round-trip trail is perfect for families and leads to a beautiful 80-foot cascading waterfall. Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and for the best photography lighting.
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Abrams Falls Trail
The 5-mile round trip to Abrams Falls is moderately difficult but rewards hikers with views of one of the most voluminous waterfalls in the park. The wide, deep pool at the base of the falls is tempting, but swimming is dangerous due to strong currents.
Gregory Bald Trail
This challenging 11.3-mile round trip hike leads to a grassy summit renowned for its spectacular flame azalea blooms in June. The panoramic views from the bald are impressive year-round.
Porters Creek Trail
This easy-to-moderate 4-mile round-trip hike is perfect for history buffs and wildflower enthusiasts. The trail passes by historic structures and bursts with wildflowers in spring.
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Rainbow Falls Trail
The difficult 5.4-mile round trip to Rainbow Falls is particularly beautiful in winter when the falls often freeze. For an extra challenge, continue past the falls to the summit of Mount LeConte.
Grotto Falls Trail
This moderate 2.6-mile round-trip hike leads to the only waterfall in the park you can walk behind. The cool, mist-filled grotto is a welcome respite on hot summer days.
Mingus Creek Trail
This average 5.8-mile round-trip trail is rich in both natural beauty and human history. Hikers pass by an old grist mill and can explore the remains of an old Smoky Mountain community.
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Cucumber Gap Loop
This moderate 5.5-mile loop combines sections of three trails, offering a diverse hiking experience. The trail features old-growth forests, a historic lodge, and a beautiful creek.
Hen Wallow Falls via Gabes Mountain Trail
This moderate 4.4-mile round-trip hike leads to a 90-foot-high waterfall cascading down a moss-covered cliff. The trail is less crowded than some of the park’s more popular waterfall hikes.
Appalachian Trail: Newfound Gap to Clingman Dome
This tough 16-mile round trip hike (or 8-mile one-way with a shuttle) offers a taste of the legendary Appalachian Trail. The route passes through spruce-fir forests and offers numerous scenic viewpoints.
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Rich Mountain Loop
This moderate 8.5-mile loop offers a mix of history and nature, passing by several historic structures. The diverse plant life along the trail makes it particularly interesting for botany enthusiasts.
Mount Cammerer Trail
This hard 11.1-mile round-trip hike leads to a unique stone fire tower with 360-degree views. The trail is particularly beautiful in spring when mountain laurel and rhododendrons are in bloom.
Schoolhouse Gap Trail
This easy 3.8-mile round-trip trail is known for its wildflowers and wildlife viewing opportunities. It’s a great option for families or those looking for a more relaxed hiking experience.
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Spruce Flat Falls Trail
This moderate 2-mile round-trip hike is a hidden gem, leading to a beautiful multi-tiered waterfall. The trail is less traveled than many in the park, offering a more secluded experience.
Baskins Creek Falls Trail
This moderate 3-mile round trip hike leads to a lesser-known but impressive 40-foot two-tiered waterfall. The trail is a quieter alternative to some of the park’s more popular waterfall hikes.
Kephart Prong Trail
This moderate 4-mile round-trip trail follows a stream and passes by interesting historical artifacts. It’s a great choice for history lovers and those interested in the park’s Civilian Conservation Corps past.
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Sugarland Mountain Trail
This strenuous 7-mile one-way trail (typically done as a 14-mile round trip or with a shuttle) offers solitude and diverse ecosystems. The trail traverses several different forest types, showcasing the park’s biodiversity.
Little River Trail
This easy-to-moderate 4.9-mile round-trip trail follows an old logging railroad grade along a beautiful river. It’s particularly stunning in spring when wildflowers carpet the forest floor.
Lace Up Your Boots and Hit the Trails
The Great Smoky Mountains provide a lifetime of hiking adventures, from easy nature walks to challenging backcountry treks. Each trail in this guide opens a window into the park’s rich biodiversity, fascinating history, and breathtaking beauty.
As you lace up your boots and hit the trails, remember to practice Leave No Trace principles, respect wildlife, and take time to soak in the natural wonders around you.
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