Best Day Hikes in the Great Smoky Mountains

I consider myself lucky to have the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in my back yard. It is a prime example of Mother Nature's glory and perfection; a natural playground with limitless options for pleasure and fun. Admission to the park itself is free and many of the most alluring activities available are free as well. In my four years of living here, one such activity I have come to develop a great love for is hiking. The National Park boasts over 800 miles of hiking trails, covering a wide range of distances, levels of difficulty and natural wonders. Of course, it is a wise idea to have not only some basic knowledge of hiking in general, but knowledge of the trails specifically, before you go.

General Tips and Rules of the Trail

1. A 4-5 mile roundtrip hike is probably a fair start for a novice hiker, or one who has been on an extended hiking hiatus. One of the biggest mistakes that hikers make is overestimating their stamina. This could be dangerous, or at the very least, inconvenient, if you find yourself exhausted midway through your hike. Start off slow and pace yourself as you become more familiar with your physical abilities, as well as your surroundings.
2. Start your day early. This lets you avoid beginning your hike in the heat of the noonday sun. By the time the sun is at its peak, you'll quite possibly be prepared for a break in a shady spot, and you will already have respectable progress made in your hike. Always allow plenty of time to complete your hike before darkness sets in, including break periods for sightseeing, snack / lunch, or whatever else you may want to figure in to your day on the trails. In the Smokies, sunset occurs at widely varied times, so it is advisable to check with park rangers for this information at the time of your visit.
3. Dogs are not allowed on hiking trails, but are allowed in certain, designated areas within the National Park. Leash regulations are in place, and you are expected to clean up after your pets.
4. Never hike alone, and remain on marked trails.
5. Dress accordingly! Wear comfortable, worn-in running/tennis shoes or hiking boots with thick soles and ankle support. Plan for the weather: long pants / long sleeves and layers for cold days, shorts for warmer days, ponchos for rainy days. Current weather updates are available by calling (865) 436-1200 ext. 630.
6. Stay hydrated. Pack plenty of water for your hike. It would be a good idea to include snacks in your pack as well, but keep them light. Fruits, crackers, sandwich quarters and trail mixes are just a few ideas of wise munchies to keep on hand.
7. Pack a small, but efficient first aid kit for your hike. This should include Band-Aids, an Ace bandage, triple anitbiotic ointment, an anti-itch/Benadryl spray, gauze, medical tape and treatment for potential bee stings.
8. For additional tips and info regarding trails in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park, call the Backcountry Information Office at (865) 436-1297 from 9:00 AM until noon, Eastern time. The Great Smoky Mountains Associations also provides hiking information, planning and suggestions: (865) 436-0120.

Top Hiking Trails in the National Park

1. Abrams Falls Trail
   The Abrams Falls Trailhead is located in the popular Cades Cove area of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, halfway through the scenic drive loop. It's a wonderful choice for those who are new to hiking, or those with children in tow, because it is one of the easier hikes in the park. Approximately 5 miles round-trip, plan for 3-4 hours on the Abrams Falls Trail, not including any extended breaks you may opt to take in your explorations. The trail runs parallel to Abrams Creek, which offers fishing and wildlife viewing opportunities. Highlights of the trail include a 20-ft. waterfall framed in greenery and floral displays. Abrams Falls empties into an alluring pool, so consider a bathing suit if you want to partake!
2. Old Settlers Trail
   The entrance to the Old Settlers Trail can be found in the Greenbrier area of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This trail is a lengthy one, almost 16 miles in total, but somewhat mild in the fact that it is a smoother, more accommodating trail than many. Be aware, however, that there are some areas of the trail that are very steep. Along the Old Settlers Trail, you will encounter many creeks and streams (which lure a variety of wildlife), as well as old home sites and structures. There are multiple points along the trail that can be used to exit in case of an emergency.
3. Chimney Tops
   Visitors can access the Chimney Tops Trailhead via Newfound Gap road, past the Sugarlands Visitors Center. Short in length, but semi-challenging in nature, Chimney Tops is a very popular trail; and it's easy to understand why. The trail features an abundance of wildflowers, and crosses over many bridges and streams. Points along the two-mile trail (four, roundtrip) are rugged, steep and treacherous, so take time and caution on this hike. Plan For about 1-3 hours along the Chimney Tops Trail. While this trail does have potential hazards along it, proper precautions should eliminate dangers. And to be blunt, the view from Chimney Tops is one of the best in the park.
4. Appalachian Trail
   Certainly not unfamiliar to most, the Appalachian Trail is a hiker's highlight. Tennessee is one of fourteen states that the trail winds through on its 2000+ mile path. A 70-mile section of the trail forms a border between Tennessee and North Carolina, cutting through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Though most who hike the Appalachian Trail cannot claim to cover the entire length, this portion offers one of the more worthwhile portions to accomplish. One of the most common trail entrances can be found at Newfound Gap, within the National Park. The trail does include open bunk shelters than can be used as overnight accommodation for those on an extended hike, but permits and reservations are required in advance. The Appalachian Trail also connects with many other trails along its route. Plan for widely varying terrain and conditions along this lengthy hike.