Adventurers, we have exciting news! This year, we will open a new glampsite in The Great Smoky Mountains. This gorgeous national park is a must-do American vacation! Its beautiful, forested mountain range is dotted with luscious wildflowers, peaceful streams, amazing waterfalls, plentiful wildlife and breathtaking panoramic views. Parts of the infamous Appalachian Trail wind through the park, as it is located on the border of Tennessee and North Carolina. The hiking scene at Great Smoky Mountains is extensive and unforgettable. Here are 8 great trails to try while visiting!
Easy Hikes
Laurel Falls
Located just outside of Gatlinburg, Tennessee, this paved trail gets its name from the mountain-laurel, a shrub that blooms in this area of the National Park year round. The hike is fairly easy, at a distance of 2.4 miles roundtrip and an elevation gain of 314 feet. The magnificent 80-foot waterfall is a sight to see. You don’t want to miss this hike!
Distance: 2.4 miles roundtrip
Elevation gain: 314 ft
Location: Near Gatlinburg, TN
Clingmans Dome
If you’re longing for great views, but don’t want to make the trek, Clingmans Dome is the hike for you. This quick one-mile trail leads you to an observation tower that overlooks never-ending forestry. You’ll get a 360-degree view as you stand on the highest peak in Tennessee. Go at sunrise or sunset to be truly amazed.
Distance: 1 mile roundtrip
Elevation: 332 ft
Location: An hour drive from Gatlinburg, TN
Grotto Falls
If you’ve ever been on Disney’s Jungle Cruise, you know that nothing is more amazing than “the backside of water”. Grotto Falls gives you just that! You can actually hike behind this majestic waterfall! The 2.6 mile adventure features streams, wildflowers, wildlife and lots of shade.
Distance: 2.6 miles roundtrip
Elevation Gain: 544 ft
Location: Near Gatlinburg, TN
Moderate Hikes
Chimney Tops
As one of the only bare rock summits in the park, Chimney Tops gives you a breathtaking panoramic view of the Smokies. Despite the short distance (3.3 miles out and back), this hike is steep and rocky. Perfect for the adventurous type! If you can tough out the elevation gain, it is a trail like none other.
Distance: 3.3 miles roundtrip
Elevation gain: 1,487 ft
Location: Near Gatlinburg, TN
Peregrine Peak
The trail to Peregrine Peak starts out with a series of log bridges that lead you into a luscious forest. With a soft forest floor, this trek will truly immerse you in nature. You’ll get to experience many great park features: a rock overhang, Peregrine Peak, and Arch Rock. You can access this scenic trail through the Alum Cave Bluff trailhead.
Distance: About 5 miles roundtrip
Elevation gain: 1,161 ft
Location: 8.6 miles from Sugarlands Visitor Center
Strenuous Hikes
Ramsey Cascades
The 8-mile trail to and from Ramsey Cascades leads you through the largest old-growth forest in the Great Smoky Mountains. The cascade, standing at 100-feet tall, glistens in the light and will surely take your breath away. This hike is perfect for those wanting to find peace in nature!
Distance: 8 miles roundtrip
Elevation gain: 2,190 ft
Location: Near Gatlinburg, TN
Gregory Bald
Gregory bald is a grassy meadow at an elevation of 4,949 feet that is one of two balds maintained by the park. The hike to it is no easy feat. However, the azaleas that bloom on the summit during the summer months are a must-see for all flower lovers. If flowers aren’t your thing, don’t worry, the unmatched scenery and views make the 11.3 miles worth it.
Distance: 11.3 miles roundtrip
Elevation gain: 3,020 ft
Location: Near Tallasse, TN
Mount Leconte
As the third highest peak in The Great Smoky Mountains, Mt Leconte is an iconic landmark and popular destination. You can reach the mountain through many different trails. The most popular is Alum Cave Bluff, but if you’re wanting a taste of the Appalachian trail, try the Boulevard Trail! Check out this website for some additional access routes.
Distance: 11 Miles roundtrip (through Alum Cave)
Elevation gain: 2,896 ft
Location: Near Gatlinburg, TN
Now is the perfect time to start planning your trip to the Smoky Mountains. There is no better way to experience the natural beauty of the mountains than sleeping outdoors! Our glampsites are equipped with spacious bell tents, comfortable beds and shared bathrooms. You’ll get to experience camping without the achy back and dirty hands. Keep an eye out for our Smoky Mountain location in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, opening April 2022!
In the meantime, check out some of our other campsites around the United States!
Post written by: Camryn Tippetts