The Great Smoky Mountains have so many hiking trails to choose from, you may not know where to start! If you want to try an easy trail, we want to help you out! We’ve rounded up a list of easy hikes in the Smoky Mountain National Park so you can enjoy the mountains. Here are the top 5 easy hikes in the Smoky Mountains National Park:
1. Laurel Falls
If you want to see an incredible waterfall along an easy hike, you should try Laurel Falls. This trail is only 2.6 miles roundtrip, and the path is paved, making it easier to hike. In the spring, you’ll see all kinds of mountain laurel along the trail, and you might even see some beautiful mountain views. Once you reach the top, you’ll see the 80-foot-tall waterfall. A footbridge separated the falls into an upper section and a lower section. You’ll love the fact that you can walk in front of the falls and take pictures!
2. Cataract Falls
If you’re bringing small children on a hike in the Smoky Mountains National Park, you should take them on Cataract Falls! The trail is only 1.1 miles roundtrip, making it the perfect length for beginners. The path is easy to follow because it is laid out with logs, and it is well worn. Your kids will want to stop and play in the creek, and you might see birds, squirrels, and other wildlife along the way. Near the end of the trail, you’ll see Cataract Falls, a small waterfall that’s beautiful.
3. Gatlinburg Trail
Looking for an easy trail that’s right outside of Gatlinburg? Take your group on the Gatlinburg Trail. It is 3.8 miles roundtrip, which is a little long but there’s not really any steep hills to climb, making it simple! Hiking the Gatlinburg Trail is a great way to spend the afternoon, especially if you bring your furry friend with you! It’s one of the only dog friendly trails in the national park. Along the way, you’ll cross footbridges over creeks and see remains of homesteads. You might even see some wildlife and wildflowers!
4. Elkmont Nature Trail
Elkmont Nature Trail is another simple, short trail. It’s about 0.8 of a mile roundtrip, making it perfect for kids and older adults. There are all kinds of wildflowers along this trail in the spring, and you can really see the beauty of fall color changes on Elkmont Nature Trail. This trail is also used for bird watching. It’s a great hike in the Smoky Mountains National Park!
5. Andrews Bald
The roundtrip length for Andrews Bald is 1.8 miles, but you should know it is a slightly rugged hike that’s worth it! You will hike through old forest growth and see flowers in the spring. You might even see white tailed deer or birds! Once you reach the top, you’ll come out onto the Bald where you will see beautiful views of the mountains. Many people even bring a picnic up there to enjoy the view while they eat.
There are so many easy hikes in the Smoky Mountains National Park. Wondering what else you can do in the national park? Check out these Smoky Mountain outdoor activities you should try!