13 Best Hiking Trails in Gatlinburg, Tennessee
I just got back from Gatlinburg, Tennessee and I am happy to report that the town borders many of the entrances into the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, where you will find tons of hiking trails that are as beautiful as they are character-building. Whether you’re in the mood for a leisurely walk or ready to tackle a trail so long you could change your life in the time it takes to complete, Gatlinburg has a trail for you. Let’s explore some of the best, from waterfall wonders to paved paths (because who doesn’t love a smooth stroll?). There is no entrance fee, but you do need to pay a parking fee of just $5 for the day. Also, while visiting Gatlinburg we recommend staying at Embassy Suites Gatlinburg Resort.
Table of Contents
1. Boulevard Trail to Mt. LeConte
For when you feel like hiking for days…literally. If you’ve ever wanted to experience nature while simultaneously questioning your life choices, the Boulevard Trail is for you. It’s the scenic route to Mount LeConte and promises epic views, dramatic drop-offs, and a sense of pride when you finally finish—about seven hours later. Just remember, what goes up must come down, and in this case, it’s your legs after 16 miles roundtrip.
2. The Appalachian Trail (Yes, THAT Appalachian Trail)
For the overachievers, dreamers, and those who really enjoy a good challenge. The Appalachian Trail is legendary. If you’ve got about six months to spare, why not walk the whole thing? For those of us with jobs, kids, and, well, real lives, you can dip your toes in along the state line in the Smokies. But don’t worry, you’ll still be able to tell everyone you hiked the Appalachian Trail. They don’t need to know you only did a mile.
3. Ramsay’s Cascade Trail
Because everyone loves a 100-foot waterfall. Ramsay’s Cascade is the trail for when you want to see a waterfall so impressive that even your teenager might look up from their phone. Fun fact: it’s the tallest waterfall inside the park. It’s a solid 8-mile trek that takes between 5 – 7 hours to hike, so pack snacks. The 100-foot waterfall at the end is totally worth the climb, though, as long as you’re not completely worn out by the time you get there.
4. Abrams Falls Trail
The best waterfall in the park… or so the locals say. Sure, every waterfall in the Smokies is beautiful, but Abrams Falls has its own fan club. It’s only a five-mile hike, so you won’t need an oxygen tank, and the falls are truly stunning. But remember, beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and after hiking for a few miles, any water falling over a rock is going to look pretty amazing. It can be tempting to swim here but it’s dangerous and the National Park Service says not to swim.
5. Little River Trail
For when you’re feeling chill but still want to say you hiked. Little River Trail is one of those hikes that you can manage even if your “hiking shoes” are just sneakers you wear to the grocery store. It follows an old railroad bed and stays mostly flat (yes, flat!), making it perfect for those days when you want to get out in nature without the feeling that nature is trying to kill you.
6. Cucumber Gap Trail
Deep woods for the adventurous (or those who just want to say they went off the beaten path). Cucumber Gap winds through the deep woods of the Smokies, offering that rugged, secluded vibe. It’s not the most famous trail, but if you’re the type who prefers the road less traveled (or at least the one with fewer tourists), this one’s for you. It’s 5.6 miles of “I’m one with nature,” without being too long.
7. Sugarlands Valley Trail
The “paved” option for people who like nature but also like being alive at the end of the day. I present to you, the Sugarlands Valley Nature Trail. It’s paved, which is basically a hiking cheat code. You get to say you went hiking, but your legs won’t hate you for it. Plus, it’s an ADA-accessible trail, so everyone can enjoy the outdoors, from stroller-pushing parents with young children to those in wheelchairs.
8. Laurel Falls Trail
For the stroller crowd (yes, really). Laurel Falls trail is the ultimate family-friendly, stroller-friendly trail. It’s paved and leads to a stunning 80-foot waterfall. Bonus points for not feeling like you need a survival kit. It’s only 2.6 miles round trip, so even your kid with the shortest attention span might make it without a meltdown. If you are looking for some easy trails this is it! Keep in mind, this trail is one of the most popular trails in the park so it might be crowded at times.
9. Alum Cave Trail
Where caves aren’t really caves, but you’ll forgive them for it. Alum Cave sounds like you’re about to descend into some Indiana Jones-style adventure, but it’s really more of a large overhang than a true cave. Still, the hike up to it is gorgeous, and if you’ve ever wanted to stand under a massive rock formation and shout into the void, this is your chance. The 4.4-mile round-trip trail is a bit intense at times.
10. Gatlinburg Trail
Finally, a trail where Fido is actually allowed to join.Let’s be honest—most hiking trails aren’t exactly pet-friendly and all trails inside the Tennessee part of the Smoky Mountains do not allow dogs. The one exception is the Gatlinburg Trail, where dogs are welcome. It’s an easy 3.8 miles round trip, with scenic river views and the bonus of being right in town, so you can bribe your dog with treats afterward (or yourself, let’s be real).
11. Elkmont Nature Trail
For when you want to explore history and pretend you’re a time traveler. Elkmont Nature Trail is the perfect short loop hike (just a mile), but it’s packed with history and charm. This trail takes you through a once-bustling logging town, now a ghost town that’s slowly being reclaimed by the forest. They recently re-opened Col. Chapman’s house so you can walk all through the house. So, if you’ve ever wanted to feel like you’re hiking through the set of a post-apocalyptic movie, this is your spot. Plus, the forest scenery is top-notch, and the loop means you won’t get lost—probably.
12. Metcalf Bottoms Trail
Short, sweet, and full of old-school Smoky Mountain charm. Metcalf Bottoms Trail is a 1.5-mile jaunt that starts from a lovely picnic area, making it a great choice for families who want to blend hiking with some outdoor dining. You’ll find remnants of historic homesteads along the way, giving you a sense of life in the Smokies long ago. It’s a great starter hike for those who aren’t looking to overdo it.
13. Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail
For when you want a scenic drive with a side of hiking. This isn’t just a hiking trail—it’s a full-on motor nature trail, meaning you can drive a 5.5-mile loop and hop out to explore trails like Grotto Falls and Rainbow Falls along the way. Think of it as the “lazy hiker’s” dream: get all the views without all the walking. The hikes you do choose to take are short and scenic, and your legs will thank you.
Wrap-up
Gatlinburg’s hiking trails offer a little something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for a waterfall you had to earn with sweat and determination, or you’re just here for a casual paved stroll, the Smoky Mountains has the right trail for you. Just be sure to pack snacks, plenty of water, and maybe a motivational speech for when the trail starts getting a little too real. If you do not want to go hiking on your own I suggest booking a tour with Smoky Mountain Guides. I went hiking and fly fishing with them and both were fantastic.
Happy hiking—may your legs forgive you!
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