If you’re visiting the Great Smoky Mountains or Gatlinburg area, going on a hike is THE main attraction! These are (in my opinion) the best hikes in the Smokies:

Having visited nearby Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg on many separate occasions, these are the hikes that stand out to me most over the years.

Check the park website for trail conditions and closures before setting out.

Map with my favorite Smoky Mountain hikes pinned:

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Cades Cove: If you aren’t a big hiker, you can drive this famous scenic loop for stunning valley vistas.

While it’s not technically a “hike”, I’m still including it here because to me, it is a quintessential Smoky Mountain activity.

However, be aware that nobody follows the “pull over to stop” rule, and everyone seems to drive incredibly slow…

Laurel Falls: Great for beginners or families with small children. This is a short, paved trail, but still has a beautiful end point.

I’ve done this multiple times with big groups. Pro tip- don’t just stay under the waterfall with the crowds, climb down into the level below for even better views!

Difficulty: Easy, 2.3 miles round-trip

Abrams Falls: This trail is usually not too crowded, and is probably my favorite waterfall in the park.

I’ve seen bears two separate times on this trail, so be wary! Follow all recommendations for bear sightings.

Difficulty: Moderate, 4.9 miles round-trip

Charlie’s Bunion– If you are an advanced hiker and looking to get some cardio in, the view at the end of this trail is one I highly recommend.

It will definitely take you some time to complete the round trip, and most of it is straight uphill. The view, however, is incredible! Best Hikes in the Smokies. 

Difficulty: Hard, 8 miles round-trip

Chimney Tops– Another stunning view, but just make sure you are in good shape before setting out to conquer this trail!

It has great views of Mount LeConte, but be sure to check the weather as it can get crazy windy!

Difficulty: Hard, 3.3 miles round-trip

Rainbow Falls– Beautiful, but a lot of uphill climbing. I wasn’t in the best of shape for this hike, and admittedly I struggled! However, it was of course #worthit.

On sunny days, the mist near the falls creates a rainbow and well, its magic. It takes about 3-5 hours to hike this round-trip, and there is a substantial elevation gain. Best hikes in the Smokies

Difficulty: Moderate, 5.4 miles round-trip

Clingman’s Dome– Incredibly popular, this place can get quite crowded, so make sure to start early!

The trail to the summit is paved, but be aware it’s also very steep. There is also an observation tower, and it’s the highest point in Tennessee! Best hikes in the Smoky Mountains. 

Difficulty: Moderate, 1.2 miles round-trip

Common Questions about hiking in the Smokies:

What is the most scenic hike in the Smokies? While this is debatable and up to individual interpretation, many people seem to think it’s Alum Cave Trail. This is a longer (11 miles) and strenuous hike.

What are the easiest Smoky Mountain hikes for families? In my experience, I would say Laurel Falls and Grotto falls are the best to go on with children, as they are short, paved, and have great views to motivate!

What are the best things to do in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park? If you’re talking nature, then this post should pretty much sum it up! If you refer to activities, see my detailed post about the best things to do in the Gatlinburg area.

What are some good Gatlinburg hiking trails with waterfalls? In my opinion, Rainbow Falls & Abrams Falls are the best, but Laurel Falls is good too considering how easy the hike is!

Pin my “best hikes in the Smokies” for later!