If you're looking for the best hikes in the Great Smoky Mountains you've come to the right place! The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is more than just a hiking destination—it’s an adventure lover’s paradise. With over 850 miles of trails, hikers can wander through ancient forests, climb rugged peaks, and chase breathtaking waterfalls. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly nature walk or a multi-day backcountry trek, the Smokies have a trail for you.
And the best part? If you're staying at Angel’s Window, your adventure is less than a 10-minute drive away. Our cozy retreat offers the perfect basecamp for exploring the Smokies, with easy access to some of the most iconic and secluded trails in the park.
So lace up your boots and get ready—here are the best hikes in the Great Smoky Mountains, categorized by difficulty and adventure level.
Family-Friendly Hikes (Easy & Scenic Trails for All Ages)
1. Laurel Falls Trail (2.6 miles round trip)
Why It’s Great: A paved, stroller-friendly trail leading to a stunning 80-foot waterfall. Perfect for families with young kids!
Trailhead: Near Sugarlands Visitor Center
Time to Complete: ~1.5 hours
2. Kephart Prong Trail (4 miles round trip)
Why It’s Great: A gentle, scenic trail crossing four log bridges over a bubbling mountain stream.
Trailhead: Newfound Gap Road
Time to Complete: ~2 hours
3. Clingmans Dome Trail (1.2 miles round trip)
Why It’s Great: Leads to the highest point in the park with 360-degree panoramic views. It’s short but steep—kids love the summit!
Trailhead: Clingmans Dome parking lot
Time to Complete: ~1 hour
Moderately Hard Hikes (Under 4 Hours, Big Payoff)
4. Alum Cave Trail to Arch Rock (4.4 miles round trip)
Why It’s Great: Pass through a natural stone arch, rocky bluffs, and incredible valley views.
Trailhead: Newfound Gap Road
Time to Complete: ~3 hours
5. Chimney Tops Trail (3.6 miles round trip)
Why It’s Great: A steep but rewarding climb to jaw-dropping summit views. Not for the faint of heart!
Trailhead: Newfound Gap Road
Time to Complete: ~3.5 hours
6. Grotto Falls Trail (2.6 miles round trip)
Why It’s Great: The only waterfall in the park you can walk behind! A magical experience, especially on hot days.
Trailhead: Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail
Time to Complete: ~2 hours
All-Day Hikes (Epic Adventures in One Day)
7. Mount LeConte via Alum Cave Trail (10 miles round trip)
Why It’s Great: The most famous hike in the Smokies, climbing through caves, bluffs, and mountain vistas to the third-highest peak in the park.
Trailhead: Newfound Gap Road
Time to Complete: ~6-8 hours
8. Gregory Bald Trail (11.3 miles round trip)
Why It’s Great: In June, the summit is covered in blooming flame azaleas—one of the most breathtaking sights in the Smokies!
Trailhead: Cades Cove
Time to Complete: ~7-9 hours
9. Ramsey Cascades Trail (8 miles round trip)
Why It’s Great: Leads to the tallest waterfall in the park (100 feet!). The last mile is steep but well worth it.
Trailhead: Greenbrier Area
Time to Complete: ~5-7 hours
Multi-Day Hikes (For the True Adventurers)
10. Appalachian Trail: Newfound Gap to Davenport Gap (31 miles, 2-3 days)
Why It’s Great: Hike a gorgeous section of the famous Appalachian Trail, passing Charlies Bunion and Icewater Spring Shelter.
Trailhead: Newfound Gap
Time to Complete: 2-3 days
11. The Deep Creek Loop (15.5 miles, 2 days)
Why It’s Great: Features multiple waterfalls, creekside camping, and fewer crowds. A peaceful backcountry retreat.
Trailhead: Deep Creek Campground
Time to Complete: 1-2 days
12. Eagle Creek to Hazel Creek Loop (25 miles, 3 days)
Why It’s Great: A secluded, challenging hike with river crossings, deep forests, and plenty of wildlife sightings.
Trailhead: Fontana Dam
Time to Complete: 3 days
What Makes the Great Smoky Mountains Hiking Experience Unique?
✅ Diverse Trails: From easy nature walks to extreme backcountry adventures, there’s something for everyone.
✅ Wildlife & Scenery: Home to black bears, elk, waterfalls, and untouched forests.
✅ Free Access: Unlike most national parks, entrance to the Smokies is completely free.
✅ Historic Cabins & Settlements: The park is filled with old homesteads, mills, and ghost towns, adding a layer of history to every hike.
Stay Close to the Adventure at Angel’s Window
After a day of hiking, why drive far to relax? Angel’s Window is a peaceful retreat less than 10 minutes from Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Spacious & Cozy: Perfect for families, couples, or solo adventurers.
Breathtaking Views: Enjoy sunset mountain views from the deck.
Ultimate Convenience: Wake up, grab coffee, and hit the trails within minutes.
Book your stay at Angel’s Window today and make your Great Smoky Mountains adventure unforgettable!
Which hike are you most excited to try? Let us know in the comments!