The Great Smoky Mountain National Park (Smokies) is probably on top of anyone’s list whenever they’re thinking about a nature trip, going on a hike, or climbing the mountains.
Well, at least it was for me, and since I ended up in Tennessee, I figured it was time to visit it.
I’ll admit, I had my doubts about the Smokies because I always thought of it as a place for hardcore hikers and mountain climbers. That’s not exactly my scene since I mostly hit the trails to clear my head and relax with lovely views.
But I’m glad I went because it made me realize that the Great Smoky Mountains are actually great for those looking for casual hikes and even solitude.
The Trails
Hiking has to be the best way to enjoy the Smoky Mountains. After all, the park has over 800 miles of hiking trails with different difficulties. I can’t say I’m new to hiking, but since I was there for a casual hike, I looked up beginner-friendly to moderate-difficulty trails.
- Gatlinburg Trail: This 3.8-mile round-trip trail is one of the only two trails in the park that allows both bicycles and dogs. It runs from the outskirts of Gatlinburg to the Sugarlands Visitor Center, offering a pleasant walk along the West Prong of the Little River.
- Laurel Falls Trail: This one’s popular because it’s a fully paved trail, but there are still uneven spots. It spans 2.7 miles and leads to an 80-foot double-decker waterfall.
- Clingmans Dome: Also a popular trail, and it’s only half a mile. This takes you to the top of the Clingmans Dome, the highest point of the park. Now, this may sound easy, but it’s a steep trail. Don’t worry; there are benches you can use to take breaks and enjoy the views.
- Sugarlands Valley Nature Trail: An ADA-accessible, half-mile loop near the Sugarlands Visitor Center. It’s perfect for families with young kids, older adults, and beginner hikers.
- Alum Cave Trail: This is a moderate 4.4-mile roundtrip hike that leads to Alum Cave Bluffs, a stunning rock overhang with unique geological formations.
I opted for the Alum Cave trail because it seemed like the perfect balance of challenge and scenery. I’d heard about those unique rock formations and the panoramic views, and I was eager to experience them for myself.
Taking the Hike
The trailhead for Alum Cave Trail is located near the Sugarlands Visitor Center, which was super convenient since I was staying in Gatlinburg.
I set off early in the morning, hoping to beat the crowds and the heat, but I wouldn’t say the crowd bothered me when I got there. There were quite a lot, but not to the point that you’ll feel like you shouldn’t have gone.
The trail started off with a gentle incline, winding through a lush forest with towering trees and vibrant wildflowers.
As I hiked further, the trail became steeper and rockier, with some sections requiring a bit of scrambling. But the views were totally worth the effort. I stopped at several overlooks along the way, just admiring the panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
The best part was definitely reaching Alum Cave Bluffs. This massive rock overhang, formed by years of erosion, was truly impressive. The hike back down was a bit easier, but I still took my time so I still got to enjoy the scenery.
Historic Sites and Wildlife Encounters
I know that all over the national park are remnants of early settlements in the area. I did see a few log cabins in Cades Cove, including the John Oliver Cabin, which dates back to the early 1820s. It’s one of the oldest structures in the Smokies.
I also saw the Walker Sisters Cabin in the Little Greenbrier area. The Walker sisters are known to have been born and raised in the Smoky Mountains, and even when the national park was established, they chose to remain as they were also given a special lifetime lease.
They lived an interesting life raising livestock and growing vegetables around their cabin. When I was there, I just couldn’t help but think about how the cabin bore witness to the happy and peaceful life they lived. The sisters never married, and their connection to the mountains is inspiring.
Then, I visited the Mountain Farm Museum, which showcases traditional Appalachian farming practices and tools. I learned about the challenges and ingenuity of early settlers and gained a deeper appreciation for the region’s history and culture.
I also encountered a variety of animals the whole time I was there, but luckily, no black bear was in sight. We did see some white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, squirrels, and chipmunks on the trees, and all sorts of birds I can’t identify.
Scenic Drives and Overlooks
If hiking isn’t your thing, or if you just want to enjoy the scenery from the comfort of your car, you can do so. I spent an afternoon driving the Cades Cove Loop Road, an 11-mile loop that winds through a picturesque valley.
The road is known for its historic homesteads, abundant wildlife, and stunning mountain vistas. I stopped at several overlooks along the way so I could take some nice photos. It would’ve been nice if I brought a camping chair with me, but I was able to find benches here and there.
I mostly saw some hills and forests, but if you want a glimpse of the waterfalls, you should drive on the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, a 5.5-mile loop. I drove on this with the windows down with some nice music to set the mood.
The first waterfall I encountered was Grotto Falls, a 25-foot cascade that spills over a mossy rock face. I pulled over at the designated viewing area and admired the falls. It’s one of the few waterfalls in the Smokies that you can actually walk behind, but I decided to save that adventure for another day as I just wasn’t ready to get wet.
Further down the road, I spotted Rainbow Falls, aptly named for the colorful rainbows that often appear in its mist. This 80-foot waterfall is a popular destination for hikers, but I enjoyed the view from the comfort of my car.
Tips for Visiting the Great Smoky Mountains
Before you pack your hiking boots and head for the hills, here are a few tips to help you make the most of your Great Smoky Mountains adventure:
When Planning Your Trip
Consider the time of the year when looking for activities you can do at the Great Smoky Mountains.
While the park is beautiful year-round, the most popular times to visit are spring and fall when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. Summer can be hot and humid, while winter can bring snow and ice, making some trails and roads inaccessible.
Packing Essentials
Pack for all types of weather, including comfortable clothes, layers, rain gear, and sturdy shoes. Don’t forget sunscreen, insect repellent, and any personal items you may need. If you plan on hiking, bring a backpack, water bottles, and snacks.
Respecting the Nature
The Great Smoky Mountains are a precious natural resource, and it’s important to respect the environment and wildlife. Follow Leave No Trace principles, pack out your trash, stay on designated trails, and avoid disturbing wildlife.
Remember, you’re a visitor in their home, so be respectful and responsible.
Smoky Mountain Memories
I feel like you should spend a few days in the Great Smoky Mountains to explore most of its touristy spots. But if you live in the area, I’m sure it will be lovely to even visit the park weekly for a nice hike or a break from the mundane.
I just know that if I go back, I would love to see more of the historic places. Maybe I’d even rent a cabin and spend the whole week there. It’s just really a lovely place to immerse yourself in nature.
The Great Smoky Mountains – FAQs
Are there any entrance fees for the Great Smoky Mountains National Park?
No, there are no entrance fees for the park. However, there are fees for camping and some special activities.
Are pets allowed in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park?
Pets are allowed in certain areas of the park, including campgrounds, picnic areas, and along roads. However, they are not allowed on most hiking trails, so always check on this before you bring your furbaby.
Are there guided tours I can book when I visit the Smoky Mountains?
Yes, there are several guided tours you can book when visiting the Great Smoky Mountains. You can book small group trips for hiking, driving tours, and even team-building activities. There are also Jeep tours, and you can book a helicopter tour with Scenic Helicopter Tours.
