Characterised by the unique ‘smoky’ fog that weaves through the treetops on the mountainside, to call the Great Smoky Mountains breathtaking would be an understatement. Exploring the park is an incredible adventure; hikers will be thrilled by the challenge and awed by the immense biodiversity in the region. In fact, though the Great Smoky Mountains are situated along the border of Tennessee and North Carolina, it is said that during a hike from the lowest to the highest elevation in these mountains, one could encounter as much biodiversity as they would by travelling between Georgia and Maine. Indeed, a hike in this mountain range is not something you want to miss, whether for the wildlife or for the views. Read on to discover more about the amazing hikes in Great Smoky Mountains!
1. Clingmans Dome
The tallest mountain in the Smokies, Clingmans Dome stands out from the land around it with a total height of 6,643 feet (2024.8 metres). It’s no wonder that this mountain is one of the most popular in the entire mountain range. It’s only a 0.5-mile (0.8 kilometre) hike with an elevation gain of 332 feet (101 metres); the steepness and altitude can make it rather challenging, so be prepared for a tough but rewarding hike. It is suitable for seasoned and intermediate hikers and takes about an hour to complete the 1-mile (1.6 kilometres) round trip. At the summit, hikers can ascend the observation tower, where they will be greeted by a 360-degree view of the Smokies, which is truly a sight to behold.
Clingmans Dome
Address: Sevier County, Tennessee, U.S. Swain County, North Carolina, U.S
Website: Clingmans Dome
2. Mount Sterling
The hike up Mount Sterling is fairly difficult as the 5.4-miles (8.7 kilometres) round trip journey takes hikers up to an elevation of nearly 2,000 feet (600 metres). However, it is a steady climb and the trail is in good condition. A most interesting note about Mount Sterling is its link to history: it is home to a tall fire lookout tower, originally constructed in 1935. This abandoned fire tower is must-visit—whether you’re a history buff or a thrill-seeker, if you choose to brave the harrowing climb up the fire tower, the awe-inspiring panoramic views of the Smokies from the top make it well worth the effort.
Mount Sterling
Address: Cataloochee, NC 28785, USA
3. Mount Cammerer
For an incredibly difficult hike, Mount Cammerer offers similarly incredible views for hikers who reach the summit. Be warned that the hike is rather rocky and steep, with a 6-hour round trip journey lasting 11.1 miles (17.9 kilometres). At the top, there is a fire tower that doubles as a rest stop, which is perfect as the summit that is 3045 feet (928 metres) offer a stunning vista, particularly in the fall when the trees almost seem aflame with their leaves in gorgeous reds, oranges and yellows.
Mount Cammerer
Address: Cocke County, Tennessee / Haywood County, North Carolina, U.S
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4. Abrams Falls Trail
The highlight of this hike is the picturesque waterfall at the end. Though not very high at only 675 feet (206 metres), it is still a magnificent sight, as the great volume of water spills over into a deep pool. The flora and fauna along the Abrams Falls Trail are also an opportunity not to be missed. Though a pretty trail, hikers who opt for it should be warned that they should not attempt to climb the wet and slippery rocks around the waterfall. Visitors also should not try to swim in the pool, as the perilous currents have resulted in Abrams Falls Trail as one of the top ten most dangerous hikes in the USA. It takes 4 hours on a round trip that is 5.2 miles (8.37 kilometres) long.
Abrams Falls Trail
Address: Cade’s Cove, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, TN
Website: Abrams Falls Trail
5. Alum Cave Trail
Unsurprisingly, the Alum Cave Trail is one of the most popular trails in the Smokies. It boasts sensational views with an elevation gain of 2763 feet (842 metres) and geological features and is not a trail to be missed. Beginning with the lovely Alum Cave stream, visitors will soon encounter the Arch Rock through which they will hike, followed by Inspiration Point with amazing views, the Alum Cave Bluff, and onwards to the summit of Mount LeConte. Hikers, take your time exploring the Alum Cave Trail in all its natural beauty as the entire round trip takes 8 hours and is 11 miles (17.7 kilometres) long.
Alum Cave Trail
Address: Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee, United States
6. Andrews Bald
Most notable about the Andrews Bald Hiking Trail is the variety of walkways and natural staircases made from rock and wood that make the hike all the more interesting. With an elevation gain of 899 feet (274 metres) and a 3.6-mile (5.8 kilometres) round trip distance, it’s not that difficult of a trail and should only take 3 hours. The trail is populated with pretty flowers, from Quaker ladies, which are small, blue wildflowers, to native flame azaleas and Catawba rhododendrons. If you love flowers, be sure to take this trail.
Andrews Bald
Address: Forneys Creek, NC 28713, USA
7. Cades Cove Loop
Cades Cove, a quaint limestone valley, can be navigated by car or bicycle. Visitors to the valley will see peaceful, undulating hills, and feel a sense of rejuvenation from the pasture scenes. This drive is characterised by the numerous historic buildings like churches and barns, as well as the wonderful highland scenery, flora and fauna. Drive slowly along the winding roads and get out whenever a historic building or an eye-catching meadow catches your eye to make sure you do not miss anything on this scenic trail. The loop can last 2-4 hours depending on traffic and is 11 miles (17.7 kilometres) long, and longer if you walk parts of the trail.
Cades Cove Loop
Website: Cades Cove Loop
8. Middle Prong Trail
The Middle Prong Trail leads hikers to the Indian Flats Falls, which are a series of four distinct, scenic waterfalls which make for great photos. A high elevation gain of 1140 feet (347 metres) and a moderate distance of 8.3 miles (13.4 kilometres) makes this trail last 4 hours long on a round trip. About 1.9 miles (3 kilometres) along, hikers will come across an old, rusting Cadillac about 20 yards (18 metres) off the main trail. Estimated as the late 1920s or early 1930s model, the Cadillac is an interesting landmark for visitors on Middle Prong Trail.
Middle Prong Trail
Address: Townsend, TN 37882, United States
9. Ramsey Cascades
Another extremely famous trail in the Smokies, Ramsey Cascades Trail brings visitors to the tallest waterfall in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The trail brings hikers through an unparalleled journey of truly dazzling greenery and babbling brooks. In spring, the trail comes alive with blooming wildflowers. It is a trail straight out of a fantasy novel. However, hikers should take due caution as the path is rather rocky nearer to Ramsey Cascades. Nobody should try to climb the rocks near the waterfall, as many have been injured doing so. The elevation gain is 2190 feet (667 metres) and the trail distance is 8 miles (12.9 kilometres) lasting 5 hours on a round trip.
Ramsey Cascades
Address: Ramsey Prong Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, United States
Website: Ramsey Cascades
10. Appalachian Trail
The Appalachian Trail runs from Springer Mountain in Georgia to Mount Katahdin in Maine, with over 71 miles (114 kilometres) within the Smoky Mountains itself. The Smoky Mountains Appalachian Trail encompasses Clingmans Dome and Mount Cammerer and takes 7 days to hike through. This trail is definitely not for the faint of heart. The idea for this long-distance trail was originally conceived in 1921, with the intention of being a leisurely activity to allow urbanites to unwind in nature. Indeed, taking on the trail is an unforgettable experience for all.
Appalachian Trail
Address: 799 Washington St, Harpers Ferry, WV 25425, United States
Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains
The most popular national park in the United States, the Great Smoky Mountains is an adventure and a half. There’s nothing that will rejuvenate your spirit like a good, long hike, and captivating vistas, so use this list to start planning your trip to the Smokies!
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