Wander Far. Breathe Deep. Discover More.

There’s something magical about hiking through the Great Smoky Mountains. As morning fog rolls across the peaks and sunbeams cut through ancient forests, every trail tells a story. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, scaling scenic overlooks, or strolling quiet wooded paths, the Smokies offer a hiking experience unlike any other in the United States.

With over 800 miles of marked trails winding through diverse landscapes, you’ll find routes for every skill level—from family-friendly loops to strenuous summit climbs. This is your ultimate guide to exploring the hiking trails of the Smokies.

Why Hike the Smokies?

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited national park in the U.S., and it’s easy to see why. Hikers are drawn here by:

  • Breathtaking natural beauty — lush forests, cascading waterfalls, misty peaks
  • Rich biodiversity — more plant and animal species than any other temperate zone
  • Historical sites — old homesteads, cabins, and mills dot the trails
  • Year-round adventure — each season transforms the trails in new ways

Whether you’re a weekend walker or a seasoned thru-hiker, the Smokies are full of unforgettable journeys waiting to be taken.

Top Must-Do Hiking Trails in the Smokies

Here’s a deep dive into some of the most beloved (and some hidden gem) hiking trails throughout the park:

1. Alum Cave Trail to Mount LeConte

  • Distance: 11 miles round trip
  • Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous
  • Trailhead: Newfound Gap Road

One of the park’s most iconic hikes. You’ll pass through Arch Rock, climb to the stunning Alum Cave Bluffs, and continue to the summit of Mount LeConte—one of the tallest peaks in the Smokies. Expect sweeping views, cliffside staircases, and unforgettable photo ops.

2. Laurel Falls Trail

  • Distance: 2.6 miles round trip
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Trailhead: Little River Road near Sugarlands Visitor Center

Paved, accessible, and family-friendly, this is one of the most popular hikes in the park. A short walk leads you to the beautiful Laurel Falls, a two-tiered waterfall cascading 80 feet into a serene pool below.

3. Chimney Tops Trail

  • Distance: 3.6 miles round trip
  • Difficulty: Strenuous
  • Trailhead: Newfound Gap Road

Steep, challenging, and incredibly rewarding. This trail was rebuilt after fire damage and now includes a well-structured trail and observation area. The panoramic views from the top are nothing short of breathtaking.

4. Andrews Bald

  • Distance: 3.5 miles round trip
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Trailhead: Clingmans Dome parking area

A relatively easy hike that rewards you with a rare Southern Appalachian bald—a grassy, treeless area at high elevation with wide-open views. It’s especially beautiful in late spring and early summer when the rhododendrons bloom.

5. Ramsey Cascades

  • Distance: 8 miles round trip
  • Difficulty: Strenuous
  • Trailhead: Greenbrier Area

If you love waterfalls, this is the hike for you. Ramsey Cascades is the tallest waterfall in the park, dropping over 100 feet. The trail takes you through old-growth forest and across log bridges—ideal for more experienced hikers.

6. Grotto Falls

  • Distance: 2.6 miles round trip
  • Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
  • Trailhead: Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail

The only waterfall in the park that you can actually walk behind! This enchanting trail is shaded, relatively easy, and a favorite for families and photographers.

7. Charlies Bunion (via Appalachian Trail)

  • Distance: 8 miles round trip
  • Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous
  • Trailhead: Newfound Gap

A high-altitude ridge hike along the Appalachian Trail with striking rock formations and vast views into the North Carolina side of the park. On a clear day, it’s one of the best viewpoints in the entire region.

8. Cades Cove Nature Trail

  • Distance: 2 miles loop
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Trailhead: Cades Cove Loop Road

An excellent introductory trail for visitors who want a relaxing walk with nature and history. You’ll pass through forested areas and see remnants of early settler life in the Smokies.

Hidden Gem Trails Worth Discovering

Looking to get off the beaten path? These lesser-known hikes offer tranquility and untouched beauty:

  • Spruce Flat Falls – Quiet, under-the-radar waterfall hike from Tremont
  • Porters Creek Trail – A springtime favorite for wildflowers and old stone bridges
  • Little River Trail – Peaceful riverside walk ideal for spotting wildlife
  • Boogerman Trail (Cataloochee) – A historical trail with old-growth forest and pioneer history

Seasonal Hiking Guide

Each season in the Smokies brings its own magic to the trails:

  • Spring: Wildflowers, flowing waterfalls, fewer crowds
  • Summer: Lush greenery, shaded trails, higher elevation hikes to stay cool
  • Fall: Fiery foliage, crisp air, incredible photo opportunities
  • Winter: Peaceful solitude, snow-dusted peaks, and clear skies for views

Always check for trail closures or icy conditions in winter months.

Trail Tips for a Safe & Enjoyable Hike

  • Start early to beat crowds and afternoon thunderstorms
  • Stay on the trail to protect fragile plant life and for your safety
  • Pack essentials: water, snacks, map, first aid, rain jacket
  • Check the weather before heading out
  • Wildlife is wild: Never feed animals, and store food securely
  • Leave no trace – Pack out everything you bring in

Plan Your Hiking Adventure

Need help choosing the right hike? We’ve got detailed trail maps, downloadable checklists, and custom itineraries for all types of hikers:

  • Beginner-friendly hikes with kids
  • Pet-friendly trails (outside national park boundaries)
  • Waterfall loop itineraries
  • Day hikes with picnic spots
  • Multi-day backpacking adventures

Visit our Trail Finder Tool to discover hikes by location, difficulty, and feature.

Turn Your Hike Into a Full Smoky Mountain Experience

Pair your hike with other adventures:

  • Stop at a local eatery after your trek
  • Book a cabin nearby and catch the sunset
  • Visit a local outfitter or join a guided hike
  • Grab a souvenir map or hiking logbook at a visitor center

Your Journey Awaits

The Smoky Mountains are more than just a backdrop—they’re a living, breathing wonderland waiting to be explored one step at a time. Whether you’re seeking solitude, challenge, inspiration, or just a deeper connection to nature, the hiking trails of the Smokies will lead you there.

At Welcome to the Smokies, we’re here to help you make the most of every mile.

Find your trail. Chase the view. Leave with a story.