Explore / Outdoors

Hiking Trails in the Smokies

Explore a diverse collection of 119 hiking trails in the Smoky Mountains around Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Sevierville. From easy dog-friendly paths to challenging summit routes, there is a trail for every skill level.

Plan Your Visit

What to Know

Best Seasons

The trails are open year round, each season with its own reward. Spring brings wildflowers and full streams, summer offers cool shaded forest and high ridge breezes, fall delivers the color the Smokies are famous for, and winter opens long views through the bare trees. Higher elevations hold snow and ice well into spring.

What to Bring

Layers, since the temperature drops noticeably as you climb, plus broken in shoes with good tread, more water than you think you need, and a downloaded or paper map since cell service disappears in the park. Pack a rain shell, as mountain weather turns quickly.

How to Choose

Find the Right Fit

1

Consider Your Fitness Level

Choose trails that match your physical ability. For shorter, less strenuous hikes, options like the Gatlinburg Trail offer gentle terrain, while more experienced hikers may prefer routes like Mount Leconte via Alum Cave.

2

Decide on Scenery and Features

Look for trails with specific natural attractions. Alum Cave Trail provides impressive rock formations and scenic overlooks, whereas Chimney Tops Trail offers panoramic views from its rugged summit.

3

Account for Group Needs

If hiking with pets, the Gatlinburg Trail is a dog-friendly option. For families, consider easier trails or those with interesting landmarks like the Kuwohi Trailhead. Winter visitors might enjoy the Winterfest Wonders of Light Walking trail.

Hiking Trails

119 Options Across the Smokies

Sorted by visitor rating and review count. Click any card for full details, photos, and directions.

Alum Cave Trail
Top Rated

Alum Cave Trail

4.8 stars, 6789 reviews

National Park
Mount LeConte via Alum Cave Trail

Mount LeConte via Alum Cave Trail

4.9 stars, 5678 reviews

National Park
Chimney Tops Trail

Chimney Tops Trail

4.6 stars, 4567 reviews

National Park
Kuwohi Trailhead

Kuwohi Trailhead

4.8 stars, 2533 reviews

National Park
Gatlinburg Trail

Gatlinburg Trail

4.7 stars, 2345 reviews

Gatlinburg
Winterfest Wonders of Light Walking Trail

Winterfest Wonders of Light Walking Trail

4.8 stars, 2345 reviews

Pigeon Forge
Charlies Bunion

Charlies Bunion

4.9 stars, 2345 reviews

National Park
Mount Cammerer Trail

Mount Cammerer Trail

4.9 stars, 2345 reviews

National Park
Andrews Bald Trail

Andrews Bald Trail

4.7 stars, 2134 reviews

National Park
Horseback Trail Ride

Horseback Trail Ride

4.5 stars, 1876 reviews

Sevierville
Deep Creek Loop Trail

Deep Creek Loop Trail

4.6 stars, 1567 reviews

Bryson City
Gregory Bald Trail

Gregory Bald Trail

4.8 stars, 1567 reviews

National Park
Oconaluftee River Trail

Oconaluftee River Trail

4.5 stars, 1567 reviews

Cherokee
Little River Trail

Little River Trail

4.6 stars, 1432 reviews

National Park
Ancient Lore Village Knoxville

Ancient Lore Village Knoxville

4.9 stars, 1234 reviews

Knoxville
Cove Hardwood Nature Trail

Cove Hardwood Nature Trail

4.6 stars, 1234 reviews

National Park
Noah Bud Ogle Nature Trail

Noah Bud Ogle Nature Trail

4.6 stars, 1234 reviews

Gatlinburg
Porters Creek Trail

Porters Creek Trail

4.7 stars, 1234 reviews

National Park
SkyTrail

SkyTrail

4.7 stars, 1110 reviews

Gatlinburg
Mount Harrison

Mount Harrison

4.8 stars, 1026 reviews

Gatlinburg
Sugarland Valley Nature Trail

Sugarland Valley Nature Trail

4.6 stars, 987 reviews

National Park
The Fugitive Train Wreck Site

The Fugitive Train Wreck Site

4.6 stars, 876 reviews

Other Tennessee
Chasteen Creek Cascade Trail

Chasteen Creek Cascade Trail

4.5 stars, 876 reviews

National Park
Fighting Creek Nature Trail

Fighting Creek Nature Trail

4.4 stars, 876 reviews

National Park
Metcalf Bottoms Trail

Metcalf Bottoms Trail

4.5 stars, 876 reviews

National Park
Find It

Where to Go

Insider Knowledge

Tips and Getting There

Insider Tips

  • Start early. Parking at the popular trailheads fills by midmorning in summer and on fall weekends, and an early start beats both the crowds and the afternoon storms.
  • Match the trail to your group honestly. Elevation gain matters more than distance in the Smokies, so check the climb before you commit, especially with kids or anyone new to hiking.
  • Carry water and a snack even on short hikes, tell someone your plan, and turn back if weather moves in. Conditions at the summit are often very different from the trailhead.

Getting There and Parking

Most trailheads sit inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park, reached through the Gatlinburg entrance or from Townsend on the Cades Cove side. There is no entrance fee, but a parking tag is required for any stop over fifteen minutes. Arrive early for the popular lots.

Who Is This For

Picking the Right Hiking for Your Group

For Families with Young Kids

Choose shorter, accessible trails such as the Gatlinburg Trail Only Dog Friendly Trail for an easy walk along the river. The Winterfest Wonders Of Light Walking trail offers a festive experience during the winter months.

For Experienced Hikers

Take on challenging routes like Mount Leconte Via Alum Cave or Chimney Tops Trail, which provide rewarding summit views and varied terrain. The Mount Cammerer Trail offers a longer hike with historic fire tower access.

For Dog Owners

The Gatlinburg Trail is the primary dog-friendly trail in the area, allowing pets to join in on a scenic and moderate hike. Always keep your dog on a leash and bring water for both of you.

For Scenic Nature Enthusiasts

Explore Alum Cave Trail and Charlies Bunion Trail to experience unique geological features and panoramic vistas. Kuwohi Trailhead also offers beautiful forest landscapes and opportunities to spot local wildlife.

For Seasonal Visitors

Winter visitors can enjoy the Winterfest Wonders Of Light Walking trail, while spring and summer bring vibrant wildflowers and lush greenery along most hikes. Always check trail conditions before heading out.

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Are dogs allowed on all hiking trails in the Smoky Mountains?

Dogs are only permitted on specific trails such as the Gatlinburg Trail Only Dog Friendly Trail. Most other trails in the park do not allow pets to protect wildlife and natural resources.

What is the best time of year to hike in the Gatlinburg area?

Spring through fall offers pleasant temperatures and blooming flora, while winter provides quieter trails and special events like Winterfest. Trail conditions may vary seasonally, so plan accordingly.

How long are the top hiking trails in this region?

Trail lengths vary widely; Alum Cave Trail is approximately 5 miles round trip, while Mount Cammerer Trail is longer and more strenuous. Chimney Tops Trail is shorter but steep and rocky.

Are there guided hiking tours available in the area?

Yes, several local companies offer guided hikes for various skill levels, providing insights into the natural and cultural history of the Smoky Mountains.

Is parking available at popular trailheads like Alum Cave and Kuwohi?

Parking is available but can fill up quickly during peak seasons. Arriving early or using shuttle services where offered is recommended.

Can you camp near these hiking trails?

There are designated backcountry camping sites within the park, but permits are required. Many visitors also choose from 53 cabins in the surrounding Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Sevierville areas.

Where to Stay

Stay Within Reach of Hiking Trails

More than 50 luxury cabins within a short drive of the best hiking trails in the Smokies. Hot tubs, mountain views, room for the whole crew.

Browse Cabins
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Related Categories

Waterfalls Scenic Drives and Overlooks Picnic Areas and Parks Horseback Riding Wineries and Breweries Southern and Comfort Food
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