What is the best hike in Gatlinburg?
The best hikes near Gatlinburg depend on your skill level: For beginners, Laurel Falls (2.6 mi, paved) leads to an 80-foot waterfall. For moderate hikers, Grotto Falls (2.6 mi) lets you walk behind a waterfall. For advanced hikers, Alum Cave to Mt. LeConte (11 mi) is the iconic Smoky Mountain summit experience with incredible views.
Find Your Perfect TrailBest Gatlinburg Hiking Trails at a Glance
Quick comparison of the most popular trails by difficulty, length, and features
| Trail Name | Distance | Difficulty | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Laurel Falls | 2.6 mi RT | Easy (paved) | Beginners, families, waterfall photos |
| Gatlinburg Trail | 3.8 mi RT | Easy (flat) | Dogs, bikes, strollers allowed |
| Clingmans Dome | 1 mi RT | Easy-Moderate | Best panoramic views in park |
| Grotto Falls | 2.6 mi RT | Moderate | Walk behind waterfall |
| Chimney Tops | 4 mi RT | Moderate-Hard | 360° views, iconic rock outcrop |
| Alum Cave to Arch Rock | 2.8 mi RT | Moderate | Unique rock formations |
| Rainbow Falls | 5.4 mi RT | Moderate | Tallest single-drop waterfall |
| Mt. LeConte via Alum Cave | 11 mi RT | Strenuous | Epic summit experience |
| Charlies Bunion | 8 mi RT | Strenuous | Dramatic cliff viewpoint |
| Ramsey Cascades | 8 mi RT | Strenuous | Tallest waterfall (100 ft) |
Great Smoky Mountains National Park contains over 800 miles of hiking trails, making it one of the premier hiking destinations in the eastern United States. The trails range from flat, paved paths suitable for strollers to rugged backcountry routes that challenge experienced hikers. This guide covers the best trails near Gatlinburg, organized by difficulty level.
Trail Parking Update
As of 2023, parking at popular trailheads requires a parking tag ($5 per day or $40 annually) from March through November. Tags are available online at recreation.gov or at park visitor centers. Your cabin driveway doesn't count, so plan ahead!
Easy Trails (Great for Families)
Laurel Falls Trail
The most popular trail in the park leads to an 80 foot waterfall. The paved path has a moderate incline but is suitable for most fitness levels. Go early morning (before 8 AM) to avoid crowds and find parking. The falls are spectacular after rain.
Gatlinburg Trail
One of only two trails in the park allowing pets and bicycles. This peaceful riverside path connects downtown Gatlinburg to the Sugarlands Visitor Center, following the Little Pigeon River through the forest.
Sugarlands Valley Nature Trail
A paved loop near the Sugarlands Visitor Center, perfect for families with young children or those with limited mobility. Interpretive signs explain the forest ecology.
Clingmans Dome Trail
A short but steep paved walk to the highest point in Tennessee (6,643 feet). The spiral observation tower offers 360 degree views. Road closed December through March.
Moderate Trails
Grotto Falls Trail
The only waterfall in the park you can walk behind. The trail winds through old growth hemlock forest before reaching the 25 foot cascade. Best visited in morning light. Watch for llamas carrying supplies to LeConte Lodge!
Alum Cave Trail (to Arch Rock)
Experience incredible geological formations without committing to the full LeConte hike. Pass through Arch Rock, a natural tunnel carved by centuries of water erosion, and walk along Inspiration Point with stunning views.
Chimney Tops Trail
A steep climb to one of the most iconic viewpoints in the park. After fire damage and restoration, a new viewing platform offers spectacular 360 degree mountain views. The final section is steep and rocky.
Rainbow Falls Trail
The tallest single drop waterfall accessible by trail in the park. On sunny winter days when spray freezes, rainbows appear in the mist, giving the falls its name. Continue past the falls to reach LeConte Lodge.
Challenging Trails
Mount LeConte via Alum Cave
The most popular route to the third highest peak in the Smokies. Features Arch Rock, Alum Cave Bluffs, cable handholds on exposed cliffsides, and LeConte Lodge at the summit. Start early and bring plenty of water and snacks. This is a full day adventure.
Charlies Bunion
Starting from Newfound Gap, this section of the Appalachian Trail leads to one of the most dramatic viewpoints in the park. The rocky outcrop (named after Charlie Conner, whose bunioned feet were a running joke among hiking companions) offers heart stopping views into North Carolina.
Ramsey Cascades
The tallest waterfall in the national park at 100 feet. The trail passes through magnificent old growth forest with some of the largest trees in the park. Rocky and rooty in sections. The waterfall is worth every challenging step.
Hiking Safety Tips
- Start early: Trailhead parking fills quickly, especially on weekends. Arrive before 8 AM at popular trails.
- Check weather: Conditions change rapidly in the mountains. Pack layers and rain gear.
- Bring water: At least 2 liters for longer hikes. There are no water sources on most trails.
- Stay on trails: Off trail hiking damages fragile ecosystems and is unsafe.
- Bear safety: Make noise on trails, never approach bears, and store food properly.
- Tell someone: Share your hiking plans and expected return time.
- Start with your fitness level: The mountains are steep. Be honest about your abilities.
People Also Ask About Hiking Near Gatlinburg
Laurel Falls Trail is the easiest waterfall hike near Gatlinburg. The 2.6-mile roundtrip paved trail leads to a beautiful 80-foot waterfall. It has a moderate incline but no stairs or rough terrain. Arrive before 8 AM to avoid crowds and secure parking. The trail is suitable for most fitness levels including older adults and children who can walk the distance.
Yes, the park is home to about 1,500-1,600 black bears. While bear sightings on trails are possible, they're more common at Cades Cove. If you encounter a bear: stay at least 50 yards away, never feed or approach them, make noise to alert them to your presence, and back away slowly if one approaches. Bears are generally shy and avoid humans.
Start hiking before 8 AM for the best experience. Early starts mean easier parking at popular trailheads, fewer crowds on trails, cooler temperatures in summer, and better wildlife viewing chances. For long hikes like Mt. LeConte, start at dawn to allow plenty of daylight. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer, so finishing by early afternoon is wise.
Yes, several relatively flat trails exist:
- Gatlinburg Trail (3.8 mi) - Flat riverside path, pets and bikes allowed
- Sugarlands Valley Nature Trail (0.5 mi) - Wheelchair accessible, paved loop
- Kephart Prong Trail (4 mi) - Gentle grade along a creek
- Porters Creek Trail (4 mi) - Easy grade through old-growth forest
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