There are plenty of reasons why individuals travel from all over the world to reach Gatlinburg. Our vacation destination is home to the Smoky Mountains that provide us with a variety of outdoor activities. There is no more popular outdoor activity to enjoy in the area than hiking. Gatlinburg features miles upon miles of beautiful trails that will take you all over the area. Take a look at some of our favorite Gatlinburg hiking trails:
Ramsey Cascades
Some hikes are worth the effort to make it to the top of the trail and back. One of the most beautiful hikes in all of the Smoky Mountains can be found on the trail leading up to Ramsey Cascades. This is the highest waterfall that can be accessed inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and the views are worth every step. The total length of the trail is approximately 4 miles, making it an 8-mile round trip. Overall, the trail finds an elevation gain of 2,000 feet, so expect a strenuous hike that is most appropriate for experienced hikers. As mentioned, the trail is well worth the effort and will have you passing by flowing rivers, beautiful hardwood forest, and eventually the Ramsey Cascades themselves. Do not pass up the opportunity to see this beauty for yourself!
Abrams Falls
Another popular trail inside the Great Smoky Mountains National Park that will take you by beautiful waterfalls is the path to Abrams Falls. This hike is a bit shorter, at only 5 miles in total for a round trip, and the elevation gain is minimal, making it perfect for moderate hiking. The trail itself will have you walking along the Cades Cove, where you can see rhododendron and pine and oak trees. Abrams Falls is only 20 feet tall when you find it, but the amount of water flowing from it is staggering. Make sure to take caution if you plan on taking a dip in the water, as the tides can be fierce.
Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail
Why settle on just one waterfall during a trek up a hiking trail when you can find two? That is exactly the point when you take on the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, also found inside the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This trail features separate destinations depending on which end you go down. The side taking you to the Rainbow Falls will reward you with an 80-foot-tall waterfall that towers over everything around it. The other side will take you to the Trillium Gap Trail that will lead you to the 25-foot-high Grotto Falls that you can walk behind; don’t forget your camera phone, as you can take some incredible pics standing behind this waterfall! There is nothing better than having multiple options when you choose this nearby trail.
Laurel Falls Trail
Not all hiking trails need to be challenging to enjoy a rewarding view. When you are inside the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, look forward to the Laurel Falls Trail. This local trail is only 2.4 miles in length and has a minor elevation gain at 396 feet. Laurel Falls Trail is a paved path, so anyone can join you on the trek to the falls. This is the perfect place for a relaxing walk and is accessible all year long. Laurel Falls Trail is often crowded due to its easy nature, so plan ahead for an early morning or late evening hike when less people are out and about.
Charlies Bunion via Appalachian Trail
During the warmer summer months in Gatlinburg, you can explore the beautiful hills of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park by taking the Appalachian Trail. We all learned about the Appalachian Trail back in elementary school, and it can still be accessed right here. Specifically, the trek to Charlies Bunion will have you out on an all-day trek traversing over Mount Ambler, Mount Kephart, and Masa Knob. As you hike up and down the rolling hills, travel over 8 miles in total to and from the end of the trail. This hike is especially known for the beautiful wildflowers that grow just along the trail. Locals recommend sticking to the months of April through October as snow can be present on the trails during other parts of the year.
Book Your Stay in Gatlinburg
As you can see, there are plenty of incredible trails found in and around Gatlinburg that will give you plenty to see and do during your stay. Make the most out of your journey by reserving one of our rental cabins in the area. You will experience authentic cabin living with fine amenities right here in Gatlinburg!
