The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the most visited and biodiverse in the country! One of the best ways to experience its beauty is to hike right through it. There are over 850 miles of hiking trails in the Smoky Mountains, so you’ll never run out of options! To help you choose which ones to visit first, here are 4 of the best Smoky Mountain trails that the whole family will love.
1. The Gatlinburg Trail
Bring everyone along for a hike on the Gatlinburg Trail ! This 1.9-mile trail travels one-way from the Sugarlands Visitor Center to the outskirts of Gatlinburg. It is relatively flat, making it a favorite among joggers and bikers, and an easy hike for people of all ages. You can even bring your pup with you because the Gatlinburg Trail is one of two pet-friendly trails in the national park! When you’re done exploring, you can all come back and relax in one of our pet-friendly cabins.
2. Porters Creek
Porters Creek Trail is just a 2-mile round trip from the parking lot to Porters Flat. You’ll be able to spot evidence of the first European settlers. You can all try to pinpoint the indications of old homesteads, stone fences, and stairs as you walk along the trail. You will find a cantilevered barn, spring house, and cabin when you reach Porters Flat and witness how nature has reclaimed this area over the last 80 years. This Smoky Mountain Trail is beautiful year-round, especially in the spring when it comes alive with blooming wildflowers.
3. Kephart Prong Trail
The Kephart Prong Trail is about a 4-mile round trip, so you and your family will have plenty of opportunities to see various types of plants and wildlife. Salamanders and other native species can sometimes be found along the stream. Spectacular wildflowers bloom in the spring and the trees are always beautiful during the changing seasons. You can also learn about the Smokies’ history as you pass by remnants of the logging era and the Civilian Conservation Corps.
4. Laurel Falls
Don’t miss out on one of the most popular hiking trails in the national park! Laurel Falls has a round trip distance of 2.6 miles and takes about 2 hours to get to the waterfall and back. The trail is paved, making it easier for families to navigate, but it’s somewhat uneven, so it’s not so great for strollers and wheelchairs. The scenic 80-foot waterfall is divided by a walkway that crosses the stream. It also serves as a gorgeous backdrop for any photos you and your family want to take!
We would love to share more about all the Smoky Mountain trails when you stay with us. Start planning your next family vacation today and browse our selection of cabins. We look forward to seeing you and your family at Timber Tops Cabin Rentals!
