Best Hikes in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Andrews Bald is a high-elevation hike known for sweeping mountain views, spruce-fir forest and colorful flame azalea blooms, which typically peak in early summer. The trail begins near the Kuwohi parking area at the Forney Ridge Trailhead. The hike out to the bald is mostly downhill, but the return trip climbs steadily back to the parking area.

• Distance: 3.6 miles round trip
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Estimated time: 2-3 hours
• Parking: Park at the Kuwohi parking area. Parking is limited, especially during peak seasons, and a parking tag is required for vehicles parked more than 15 minutes.
• Pet policy: Pets are not allowed on this trail.
• Best for: Mountain views, summer wildflowers and high-elevation scenery.

Pro Tip: Afternoon thunderstorms are common in spring and summer. Pack rain gear, carry water and check current conditions before heading out.
 

Alum Cave Bluffs is one of the most popular day hikes in the park, and it earns that reputation with old-growth forest, mountain streams, stone steps and dramatic geological features. Along the way, hikers pass Arch Rock and Inspiration Point before reaching the massive rocky overhang of Alum Cave Bluffs.

• Distance: 4.6 miles round trip to Alum Cave Bluffs
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Estimated time: 3-4 hours
• Parking: Park at the Alum Cave Bluffs Trailhead on Newfound Gap Road. The lot fills quickly, so arrive early or consider a shuttle during busy seasons. A parking tag is required for vehicles parked more than 15 minutes.
• Pet policy: Pets are not allowed on this trail.
• Best for: Rock formations, forest scenery, mountain streams and a classic Smokies day hike.

Pro Tip: This trail can be crowded and has steep, rocky sections. Start early for cooler temperatures, better parking chances and a quieter hike.
 

Kuwohi is the highest point in Great Smoky Mountains National Park and one of the most iconic overlooks in the Smokies. The trail to the observation tower is short, paved and steep, but the payoff is a panoramic view of Southern Appalachia. On clear days, visitors can see across layers of blue ridges stretching into the distance.

• Distance: 1 mile round trip
• Difficulty: Short but strenuous due to the steep grade
• Estimated time: 45 minutes to 1 hour
• Parking: Park at the Kuwohi parking area. Kuwohi Road is seasonal and may close because of weather, so check road conditions before visiting. A parking tag is required for vehicles parked more than 15 minutes. Shuttle services are also available.
• Pet policy: Pets are not allowed on this trail.
• Best for: Sunrise, sunset, panoramic views and a short hike with a big reward.

Pro Tip: Kuwohi is often 10-20 degrees cooler than the surrounding lowlands. Bring layers, even in summer.
 

The Gatlinburg Trail is one of the few trails in the park that allows leashed pets, making it a helpful option for visitors traveling with dogs. The trail follows the West Prong of the Little Pigeon River between Gatlinburg and Sugarlands Visitor Center, with forest views, river scenery and remnants of old homesites along the way.

• Distance: 4 miles round trip
• Difficulty: Easy
• Estimated time: 1.5-2 hours
• Parking: Access the trail from Gatlinburg or Sugarlands Visitor Center. A parking tag is required for vehicles parked inside the park for more than 15 minutes.
• Pet policy: Leashed pets are allowed. Leashes must be 6 feet or shorter.
• Best for: Dog-friendly hiking, river views and an easy walk near Gatlinburg.

Cataract Falls is a short forested walk near Sugarlands Visitor Center, making it a convenient option for families, newer hikers or travelers looking for a quick nature stop. The trail leads to a 40-foot waterfall and can be paired with the nearby Fighting Creek Nature Trail for a longer walk.

• Distance: About 1-1.4 miles round trip, depending on the route
• Difficulty: Easy
• Estimated time: 30 minutes to 1 hour
• Parking: Park at Sugarlands Visitor Center. A parking tag is required for vehicles parked more than 15 minutes.
• Pet policy: Pets are not allowed on this trail.
• Best for: Families, waterfall views and a short walk near Gatlinburg.

Pro Tip: This is a popular hike because of its ease. Plan to beat the crowds by getting there earlier in the day. 
 

The Sugarlands Valley Nature Trail is a paved, half-mile loop near Sugarlands Visitor Center. It winds through second-growth forest along the West Prong of the Little Pigeon River and is the only ADA-accessible trail in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

• Distance: 0.5-mile loop
• Difficulty: Easy
• Estimated time: 20-30 minutes
• Parking: Park near Sugarlands Visitor Center. A parking tag is required for vehicles parked more than 15 minutes.
• Pet policy: Pets are not allowed on this trail.
• Best for: Accessibility, a peaceful woodland walk and visitors looking for short hikes in the Smoky Mountains.
   

Laurel Falls is one of the most popular waterfall hikes in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The paved trail leads to an 80-foot waterfall and is a favorite for visitors looking for a shorter hike with a scenic payoff. Because of its popularity, this trail can be crowded when open, especially during peak travel seasons.

• Distance: 2.6 miles round trip
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate due to sometimes steep grade
• Estimated time: 1.5-2 hours
• Parking: Park at the Laurel Falls Trailhead on Little River Road. Parking is limited, and a parking tag is required for vehicles parked more than 15 minutes. Shuttles are available for this trail.
• Pet policy: Pets are not allowed on this trail.
• Best for: Waterfall views, families and visitors looking for a shorter paved hike.

Note: Laurel Falls Trail is currently closed for rehabilitation and is expected to reopen later in 2026. Confirm current National Park Service conditions before planning a visit.