Whether you are considering hiking for the first time or consider yourself a serious outdoor enthusiast, GSMNP has the perfect trail to meet your needs! From flat nature trails that meander through the forest to all-day hikes with significant elevation change, there is truly something for everyone. Regardless of your choice, you’ll have the opportunity to experience some spectacular scenery, enjoy the great outdoors, and perhaps even spot some wildlife! Here are 3 can’t-miss places to go in the Smoky Mountains for every hiking skill level:
1. Gatlinburg Trail
The Gatlinburg Trail is the best hiking trail in Great Smoky Mountains National Park for beginners, as it is relatively flat and runs for just 1.9 miles each way from the Sugarlands Visitor Center to the outskirts of downtown Gatlinburg. It runs along the West Prong of the Little Pigeon River, providing plenty of excellent scenery as you stroll through the woods! The trail also features historic stone ruins, old chimney foundations, and pre-park homestead remains, so keep your eyes open for these historic wonders during your hike.
At the Sugarlands Visitor Center, you can take advantage of the restroom facilities, learn about the park’s plants and animals through natural history exhibits, and browse through the bookstore. This is also an excellent opportunity to speak to a park ranger about any of the other recommended trails for beginners in the park!
2. Alum Cave Trail
Another one of the can’t-miss spots in the Smoky Mountains for every skill level is the Alum Cave Trail, which is an excellent option for moderate hikers! This spectacular trail combines iconic geological features and scenic mountain views, all within a 5-mile roundtrip hike with a steady climb that is not overly extreme.
The hike itself is quite an adventure as you’ll need to scramble over man-made rock staircases, cross wooden footbridges over bubbling streams, and travel through the shaded forest with open mountain vistas. You’ll be well rewarded for your efforts upon reaching the Alum Cave Bluffs about 2.3 miles from the Alum Cave Trailhead. These massive 80-foot-high rock formations are situated at an elevation of 4,950 feet and offer a great spot to rest and soak in the panoramic views before heading back!
3. Mount LeConte via the Alum Cave Trail
The ultimate day trip in the Smoky Mountains for experienced outdoor enthusiasts is the hike to Mount LeConte via the Alum Cave Trail. You’ll begin your trek via the Alum Cave Trail described in the above section, but the terrain becomes steeper and narrower once you pass the Alum Cave Bluffs.
During this upper part of the expedition, you’ll traverse exposed rock ledges equipped with handrails for balance and make your way to the intersection with the Rainbow Falls Trail. From here, a short walk leads to the historic LeConte Lodge, a remote 1925 hike-in retreat where the supplies are provided by llamas! At an elevation of 6,400 feet, the panoramic views from the lodge at Mount LeConte are stunning and well worth the journey!
Explore the Smokies
These can’t-miss spots in the Smoky Mountains are just a few gems of what the Smokies have to offer, as there are 150 official trails in the park that total more than 800 miles of trail length! If you are interested in exploring some hidden places, check out our guide to secret spots in the Smoky Mountains!
