With more than 800 miles of trails throughout Great Smoky Mountains National Park, there is something here for nearly every kind of explorer.
With more than 800 miles of trails throughout Great Smoky Mountains National Park, we could never cover them all! Instead, we've gathered a few nearby favorites, popular Smokies classics, and places we personally recommend.
Whether you're looking for an easy riverside walk, a challenging mountain adventure, or a scenic drive with hiking opportunities along the way, there is something here for nearly every kind of explorer.
Guests staying at Log Heaven or Enlightened Stay have direct access to the Cove Mountain Trail area right from the end of the driveway. There's no need to drive into the park and search for parking; you can simply step outside and begin exploring. Because backcountry routes and trail conditions can change, check a current park map and conditions before planning a longer hike.
Approximately 15 minutes from our cabins, the Gatlinburg Trail is our personal favorite when exploring with our dogs. This relatively flat, approximately four-mile round-trip trail follows the river and is one of only two trails within Great Smoky Mountains National Park where dogs are permitted.
The Alum Cave Trail takes you through some of the Smokies' most beautiful and varied scenery, including streams, forest, Arch Rock and the impressive Alum Cave Bluffs. The hike to the bluffs is approximately 4.6 miles round-trip. More experienced hikers can continue all the way to the summit of Mount Le Conte for a challenging 10-mile round-trip adventure.
Starting at Newfound Gap, Charlies Bunion follows a section of the Appalachian Trail for approximately 8 miles round-trip, rewarding hikers with panoramic mountain views and one of the park's most recognizable rocky overlooks. This is a great choice for experienced hikers looking for a longer day on the trail.
Chimney Tops is one of the park's most iconic hikes. It may be relatively short compared with some backcountry adventures, but don't let the mileage fool you; the steep climb makes it a challenging hike.
The current official route and access should be verified before publishing final details, since the trail and summit access have changed following wildfire damage. Visitors should consult current official information before planning this hike.
Cades Cove is an 11-mile, one-way scenic loop through a beautiful mountain valley, with opportunities for wildlife viewing, historic sites and access to multiple hiking trails along the way. It is extremely popular, so an early start is usually worth it.
Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail is another wonderful way to combine a scenic drive with hiking. The area provides access to several popular trails, including Grotto Falls, a 2.6-mile round-trip hike to a waterfall you can actually walk behind.
For more dog-friendly adventures, visit our Pet-Friendly Smokies guide.
Trail conditions, road access and seasonal closures can change. Always check current National Park Service conditions before heading out, bring plenty of water, and choose a hike appropriate for your experience and the weather.
Vehicles parked inside the national park for more than 15 minutes generally require a parking tag.
Plan your Smokies adventure, then return to a comfortable cabin near Gatlinburg.
