With over 850 miles of trails, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a hiker’s paradise. Whether you are looking for 360-degree summit views, hidden waterfalls, or a walk through ancient old-growth forests, there is a trail for you.
Here is the ultimate guide to the best hiking in Smoky Mountains, categorized by what makes this park world-famous.
1. The “Must-Do” Icons
These are the heavy hitters—the trails that define the Smoky Mountain experience.
- Alum Cave to Mt. LeConte: Often called the “Crown Jewel” of the park. You’ll pass through Arch Rock (a natural stone bridge) and under the massive Alum Cave Bluffs. Continuing to the summit of Mt. LeConte offers some of the best high-altitude views in the Eastern U.S.
- Kuwohi (formerly Clingmans Dome): A steep but paved half-mile walk leads to the highest point in Tennessee. On clear days, the observation tower offers views spanning seven states.
- Charlies Bunion: A stunning rock outcropping along the Appalachian Trail. It’s an 8.1-mile round trip that rewards you with “spine-of-the-mountain” views.
2. Best Waterfall Hikes
The Smokies are home to over 2,000 miles of streams, creating legendary cascades.
- Laurel Falls (Easy/Paved): A 2.6-mile round-trip trail that leads to a spectacular 80-foot multi-tiered waterfall. Note: As of 2025, check for local construction closures on this popular route.
- Grotto Falls (Unique): The only waterfall in the park you can actually walk behind. It’s a moderate 2.6-mile hike through an old-growth hemlock forest.
- Abrams Falls (Powerful): Located in Cades Cove, this waterfall is only 20 feet high but carries a massive volume of water, making it one of the most picturesque spots in the park.
- Ramsey Cascades (Strenuous): The tallest waterfall in the park at 100 feet. This 8-mile hike is challenging but takes you through some of the park’s largest old-growth trees.
3. Best for Families and Beginners
If you are hiking with small children or looking for a relaxed stroll, these trails offer high rewards for low effort.
- Gatlinburg Trail: One of the few dog-friendly and bike-friendly trails. It’s flat, runs along the river, and features historic homestead remains.
- Cataract Falls: A very easy 1.1-mile walk from the Sugarlands Visitor Center, perfect for toddlers and seniors.
- Andrews Bald: Starting from the Clingmans Dome parking lot, this 3.5-mile hike leads to a “grassy bald”—a high-elevation meadow with panoramic views of the North Carolina side of the park.
Smoky Mountain Hiking at a Glance
| Trail Name | Difficulty | Length (Round Trip) | Main Attraction |
| Cataract Falls | Easy | 1.1 miles | Waterfall / Kids |
| Alum Cave Bluffs | Moderate | 4.4 miles | Arch Rock / Geology |
| Abrams Falls | Moderate | 5.2 miles | Massive Water Flow |
| Charlies Bunion | Strenuous | 8.1 miles | High Peaks / AT |
| Mount LeConte | Strenuous | 11.0 miles | Summit Lodge / Views |
Pro Tips for Your 2025 Trip
Elevation Temps: It can be 10–15°F cooler at the summits than in Gatlinburg. Always pack an extra layer!
Parking Passes: The park now requires a parking tag ($5/day, $15/week) if you plan to park for more than 15 minutes.
Bear Safety: This is bear country. Always stay at least 50 yards away from wildlife and never leave food in your car or on the trail.
The “Early Bird” Rule: Popular trailheads like Alum Cave and Laurel Falls often have full parking lots by 8:30 AM during peak seasons.
