Your Guide to Summer Hiking in the Smokies

Posted by Jon Hoffman in National Park

The weather's warm. The sun is shining. And you're yearning to get outdoors for healthy, fresh-air exercise. So, gather the family and head to the hills... for world-class mountain hiking here in the Tennessee Smokies.

Over 800 Miles of Hiking Trails

All told, there are roughly 150 official hiking trails in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. So, whether you're a beginner or a serious hiker, you'll find trails that suit your interests and abilities.

Easy Does It... for Novice Hikers and Younger Children

Looking for family-friendly hikes suitable for tots and seniors? Try one of these easy nature trails:

• Gatlinburg Trail (1.9 miles): Start at Sugarlands Visitor Center to follow this one-way trail through lush Appalachian forest. Along the way, you'll find interpretive markers describing natural points of interest. You'll stroll by the scenic Little Pigeon River, where crystal-clear waters splash around rocks and boulders. You'll even spot the primitive foundations of picturesque pioneer homesites. Special bonus: Bring Fido along! This is one of only two pet-friendly trails in the entire National Park.
• Sugarlands Nature Trail (0.5 miles): Traveling with a wheelchair-bound relative? Or with a tot in a stroller? Check out this paved half-mile loop, the Park's only wheelchair-accessible trail. Start from the trailhead (about 1/2 mile past Sugarlands Visitor Center) to explore beautiful woodlands, trek along a rushing stream, and view ruined chimneys and old stone walls from a bygone era.
• Elkmont Nature Trail (0.8 miles): With an elevation gain of just 95-100 feet, this forested loop trail is ideal for little kids. From the trailhead in Elkmont, you'll hike through woodlands and meadows that still show traces of the region's once-thriving railway and logging trades. Thirteen interpretive markers explain how the landscape has changed throug the decades.

Moderate Hikes, Ideal for Families with Teens and School-Age Kids

Up for something slightly more strenuous? The Tennessee Smokies offer a wide array of moderately difficult hikes, such as paved, popular Laurel Falls Trail (2.3 miles round-trip, about 314 feet in elevation), which takes you to a spectacular 80-foot waterfall... and Grotto Falls Trail (2.6 miles round-trip; elevation gain, 585 feet), which winds through old-growth forest to a gorgeous 25-foot waterfall. Plus many, many more. Ask a Park Ranger for recommendations!

What to Take with You

Even if you're opting for an easier trek, be sure to wear:

• Sturdy, comfortable shoes – preferably sneakers, athletic shoes, or hiking boots
• Thick, durable socks – preferably athletic socks with built-in moisture control
• Cool, lightweight clothing – preferably performance wear that wicks away sweat

Plus, tote along a backpack filled with:

• Bottled water
• Bug spray
• Sunscreen
• Protein bars
• Map & compass
• Light jacket or hooded rain poncho
• Flashlight
• Small first-aid kit

Want to Keep Cool? Visit a Waterfall

The mountains may be cooler than lower elevations, but they can still get pretty steamy in the summer. Fortunately there are more than 100 cascades and waterfalls throughout the National Park, so you'll find plenty of spots where you can dip your toes in sparkling water and bask in the refreshing spray. At Grotto Falls, you can even safely walk behind the cascade!

Hiking Is Just the Beginning

You'll find endless opportunities for family fun in the Gatlinburg / Pigeon Forge area. Contact Volunteer Cabin Rentals today to book your comfortable Smoky Mountain cabin.

 

 

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