Nestled along the border of North Carolina and Tennessee, within the ancient embrace of the southern Appalachian Mountains, lies Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Spanning an impressive 522,427 acres, this natural sanctuary is a testament to the enduring beauty of the American landscape. Each year, the park extends its welcome to over 12 million visitors, solidifying its position as the most-visited national park in the United States. What draws so many to this protected haven? It’s the promise of immersion in a world of towering old-growth forests, the soothing symphony of cascading waterfalls, and the vibrant tapestry of wildflowers and wildlife that thrives within its borders.
The key to unlocking the park’s treasures lies in its extensive network of trails. Nearly 800 miles of paths meander through the Smokies, offering experiences for every level of adventurer. Among these trails, a 70-mile stretch of the legendary Appalachian Trail beckons long-distance hikers. From leisurely strolls through sun-dappled meadows perfect for families to challenging day-long treks to the park’s loftiest peaks, the Smoky Mountains National Park presents an unparalleled array of hiking opportunities.
This article explores ten of the best hikes the park has to offer, each unique in its character and rewards. Whether you’re a seasoned mountaineer or a novice nature enthusiast, the Smoky Mountains National Park has a trail waiting to ignite your spirit of exploration.
1. Clingmans Dome Observation Tower
Ascending to the highest point in Tennessee, the Clingmans Dome Observation Tower trail offers a remarkable experience in a compact format. This short, yet undeniably steep, hike covers just one mile round-trip. At an elevation of 6,643 feet, Clingmans Dome provides breathtaking panoramic views. A large observation tower crowns the summit, offering visitors the potential to see for nearly 100 miles on a clear day. However, be prepared for cooler temperatures and exposed conditions at this altitude. The wide, paved path originates from a sizable parking lot and visitor center conveniently located off Clingmans Dome Road.
It’s important to note that Clingmans Dome Road is closed annually from December 1st through March 31st due to winter weather. During this period, access to the observation point is only possible via a strenuous 7-mile one-way hike along the Appalachian Trail from Newfound Gap. Despite the seasonal limitations, Clingmans Dome remains a must-visit destination for those seeking unparalleled views of the Smoky Mountains National Park.
2. Charles Bunion
For hikers seeking breathtaking summit vistas, the Charles Bunion hike along the Appalachian Trail is an exceptional choice. This 8-mile round-trip adventure offers some of the most rewarding panoramic views in the park. Classified as moderate in difficulty, the well-maintained trail commences in the northeastern corner of the Newfound Gap parking lot. The path winds its way through a diverse landscape, beginning with tunnels of Fraser firs and red spruces, transitioning to vibrant blankets of wildflowers, and ultimately ascending through rocky ridgeline and around dramatic cliffs.
The hike involves a net gain of 1,600 feet, culminating in the arrival at Charles Bunion, a rugged outcrop offering unparalleled panoramic views. From this vantage point, hikers can admire the majestic Mount Kephart, Mount Guyot, and Mount Le Conte, the third-highest peak in the Great Smokies. For those seeking even more expansive vistas, consider adding the half-mile Jumpoff spur to your journey. This detour provides additional opportunities to immerse yourself in the grandeur of the mountain landscape.
3. Laurel Falls Trail
Ideal for families and beginner hikers, the Laurel Falls Trail is a delightful 2.4-mile out-and-back trek to the stunning Laurel Falls. Due to its popularity, it’s advisable to arrive early, especially during the summer months and on weekends, to avoid crowds. Parking is available in two lots located on either side of Little River Road, approximately 3.5 miles from the Sugarlands Visitor Center near Gatlinburg.
The trail is predominantly shaded by a canopy of towering trees and bordered by thickets of mountain laurel, the plant that lends the hike its name. The path leads to the magnificent 80-foot high Laurel Falls, where water cascades dramatically into a rocky pool below. While the trail is paved, it’s important to note that the surface can be steep and broken in places, making it less suitable for visitors using wheelchairs or strollers. Despite this limitation, Laurel Falls remains a popular and accessible option for experiencing the natural beauty of the Smoky Mountains National Park.
4. Thunderhead Mountain and Rocky Top
Thunderhead Mountain, rising to an impressive 5,527 feet in the western section of the park, is home to the iconic Rocky Top, the inspiration for the beloved Tennessee anthem. The 13.9-mile loop hike to its summit is a challenging but rewarding experience, often frequented by thru-hikers. This strenuous trek involves a significant climb of 3,665 feet and is recommended for experienced hikers only.
The trailhead begins at the Anthony Creek Trail, following Abram Creek for 3.5 miles before turning right towards Rocky Top. The path meanders through picturesque grassy meadows dotted with wildflowers during the warmer months. At Spence Field, hikers turn left, following a portion of the Appalachian Trail around sandstone boulders along a narrow singletrack path to the bald summit. This exposed peak offers breathtaking 360-degree views of historic Cades Cove, Fontana Lake, and the surrounding mountains.
5. Chimney Tops
Despite being a relatively short hike, the Chimney Tops trail presents a steep and strenuous challenge. This 4-mile round-trip adventure involves a significant elevation gain of 1,375 feet to reach the summit. The trailhead is conveniently located in a parking lot just past the Sugarlands Visitors Center. The first mile of the trail is relatively gentle, following and crossing Road Prong Creek via a footbridge.
The final mile of the ascent is where the real challenge begins, as the trail gains nearly 1,000 feet in elevation. The path winds through an old-growth forest adorned with yellow buckeye trees and wildflowers such as trillium and hepatica. The final push to the top involves a very steep rock scramble. Hikers should be cautious of slippery rocks, especially after rainfall. The reward for conquering this challenging hike is panoramic mountain vistas and miles of pristine forest and valley below.
6. Porters Creek Trail
For a scenic and shaded hiking experience, the 4-mile Porters Creek loop is an excellent choice. The moderate gravel path originates from a small parking lot off Greenbrier Road. The trail follows the gentle flow of Porters Creek, passing moss-covered rocks and traversing a lush forest floor adorned with blue phlox, halberd-leaved violets, wild geranium, and a variety of other wildflowers in the spring.
Notable highlights along the Porters Creek Trail include the 60-foot Fern Branch Falls and several historic sites, including old farmsteads, a cemetery, and a 1930s-era cabin constructed by the Smoky Mountain Hiking Club. Due to its low elevation, this trail remains open year-round, making it an ideal option when ice closes other portions of the Smoky Mountains National Park.
7. Alum Cave Bluffs Trail
The Alum Cave Bluffs Trail, a challenging 4.4-mile round-trip hike, showcases some of the park’s most unique geological features. The trail begins at a parking lot just off Newfound Gap Road, starting with creek crossings on log bridges as it ascends into a hardwood forest. Approximately 1.4 miles into the hike, you’ll encounter Arch Rock, a narrow tunnel carved by wind and water erosion, a popular spot for a mid-hike photo.
From Arch Rock, the trail continues to climb, passing Peregrine Peak and then a mountain bald adorned with rhododendron and mountain laurel in the spring. The path then reaches another rocky outcrop and ascends through a ridgeline and 100 stairs to the summit. Hikers can pause for a picnic or simply soak in the views before returning to the parking lot. For those seeking a more extended adventure, the trail continues another 2.5 miles to the peak and exposed cliffs of Mt. Le Conte.
8. Ramsey Cascades
Considered one of the area’s most challenging and rewarding trails, Ramsey Cascades rewards hikers with stunning views of the park’s tallest waterfall. The trailhead parking lot is situated in a quiet area of the park off Ramsey Park Road. The 8-mile out-and-back route begins with a gradual climb over a wide path along an abandoned logging route. The trail crosses several creeks and is shaded by a canopy of warm-hued tulip trees, basswoods, and yellow birches.
The final mile of the hike is remote, steep, and rocky, culminating at the cascading 90-foot Ramsey Cascades. The waterfall is a breathtaking sight, making the challenging trek well worth the effort.
9. Andrews Bald
For a short hike with exceptional views, the 1.7-mile Andrews Bald trail is an excellent choice. Andrews Bald is one of several treeless, grassy meadows found in the Appalachians. While the total elevation change is just under 1,000 feet, the path is steep and rugged, with several wooded and rock steps and elevated boardwalks.
The trail begins at the Clingmans Dome parking lot and descends steeply before leveling out over a broad ridge covered with patches of blackberries and raspberries. The path then turns towards a final ascent through Fraser firs and other towering trees to the peak. In addition to scenic vistas of the Smokies and Fontana Lake, the vast and grassy bald provides an ideal spot for a mid-hike snack break or picnic.
10. Spruce Flat Falls
The gentle, 2-mile out-and-back Spruce Flat Falls path is perfect for those seeking a less crowded and beginner-friendly waterfall hike. The trailhead is located across from the Tremont Visitors Center. The trail follows a wide, paved road to a small dirt path with rocks and roots that winds gently uphill before descending to the cascading 30-foot falls in the valley below. The relatively easy access and stunning waterfall views make Spruce Flat Falls a popular choice for families and novice hikers.
