Hiking in the Smokies

Receiving more than nine million visitors per year, the Smoky Mountains are the most visited national park in the United States. There are over 2,100 miles of streams, 66 species of mammals, 230 types of birds, and over 1,600 variations of flowering plants.

With over 800 miles of hiking trails, the Smokies are a favorite location for hiking enthusiasts. These trails vary by difficulty. Elevations range from 840 feet to 6,643 feet.

There are several hiking trails that are non strenuous, rated as easy hiking. The Abrams Falls Trail is 5 miles round trip. The waterfall and creek are named for Cherokee Chief whose village once stood several miles downstream. One of the most popular trails is Laurel Falls. This trail is 2.6 miles round trip. The Falls are named for mountain laurel, an evergreen shrub which blooms along the trail and near the falls. Longer in distance but still rated as easy hiking is the Meigs Mountain Trail, at 12.8 miles round trip.

A moderate hiking trail includes the Gabes Mountain Trail at 2 miles round trip. This trail provides a landscape of old-growth forest. The Hen Wallow Falls Trail is a 1.5 mile round trip hike. This trail leads to the base of the falls by way of steep climbs. The Rainbow Falls Trail is 5.2 miles round trip. A rainbow is produced from the 80-foot high waterfall. During the winter months, ice formations build around the falls.

There are several strenuous hikes, rated as difficult. Some of these include the Bote Mountain Trail and Bullhead Trail. At 6,643 feet, Clingmans Dome is the Smoky Mountains highest point. It is the highest point in Tennessee.

Whether you're looking for a strenuous mountain hike or a leisurely walk with a picnic lunch, you won't be disappointed in the Great Smoky Mountains.