About Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Did you know that the Great Smoky Mountains is considered one of the oldest mountain ranges in the world? They abound with exquisite forests, active wildlife and beautiful plants. The Smokies were designated as one of the first UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 1983.

Imagine more than 800 miles of trails winding throughout the park which includes 71 miles of the Appalachian Trail. The Smokies are recognized as one of the most spectacular hiking destinations in the east.

Image Credit: Ales Krivec – Unsplash

Some things to know before you lace up your hiking boots and hit the trail:

The trails are accessible to hikers of all ability levels! There are 143 moderate trails in Great Smoky Mountains National Park above sea level (from 0.8 to 32.7 miles and from 1,105 to 6,646 feet).

It’s FREE to enter the park, but camping will cost you $14-23 per night.

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is open to the public 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Seasonal use restrictions can be found at: https://www.nps.gov/grsm/planyourvisit/hours.htm

If you are planning for an overnight stay, be sure to visit our Star Gazer Stays page to find a wide variety of lodging options in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. Another option is the Stargazer Glamping Village. Located in beautiful Wears Valley our Glamping community provides the luxury of a resort with a camping feel.

Chimney Top

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If you are looking for a great experience with some dazzling scenic views, then Chimney Tops is your ideal trail for hiking. This 3.8-mile trail is somewhat challenging, but the view you are rewarded with is worth it. The quick 1500 foot rise in elevation makes it one of the most challenging trails of the Smoky Mountains, though stairs make the trip a little smoother and easier. Enjoy a splendid view of Mount LeConte and other nearby places from the observation point located at the end of the Chimney Tops trail.

Laurel Falls Trail

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Another interesting option for adventure junkies is the Laurel Falls Trail. This 80-foot trail happens to be one of the main attractions of the Smoky Mountains. This 2.6-mile path looks beautiful in all seasons. It takes around 2-3 hours to reach the falls. It ends at a wonderful pathway between the falls. Don’t forget to bring your camera as Laurel Falls offers many opportunities for scenic photos or that quintessential Laurel Falls selfie.

Clingmans Dome Hike

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Rising 6,643-feet, Clingmans Dome is the third-highest mountain in the United States. Enjoy the amazing views from the parking area. What’s even more exciting is the observation tower that offers a stunning view of the surrounding mountains. You have to walk only a half a mile to reach the observation tower that’s located at the pinnacle of the mountain. In clear conditions, you can see up to 100 miles!

The path is not long, but the slope can make it a bit challenging. Don’t forget to bring a jacket even if you are hiking on a warm summer day. The temperature gets a bit cooler when you reach the summit.

Rainbow Falls Trail

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Offering one of the tallest waterfalls in the Smoky Mountains, Rainbow Falls, is a not-to-miss hike for nature-lovers. The elevation of the mountain is approximately 1500-feet, and takes the average hiker 3-4 hours to reach it. The 80-ft falls’ view makes the trek worth every second! Rainbow falls got its name from the rainbow that appears when the sun hits the glittering mist from the falls. You are going to need quality hiking boots for this trail. It might not be the most strenuous one, but it is fairly demanding.

Andrews Bald

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Andrew Bald is only 1.8-miles away from Clingmans Dome during Spring, Summer and Fall. Andrew Bald is an ideal picnic spot for families. If you are planning to link a visit to Andrew Bald with a visit the Clingmans Dome in the winter, then be advised the hike to Andrew Bald is roughly 10 miles because the shorter 1.8 mile trail is closed in the winter.

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is mostly visited in the summer, fall, or spring. During these periods, visitors are at their peak, hence it becomes crowded. So, you want to avoid the crowd and visit in winter, but still have fun. What can you do? What are some of the things that can make the visit memorable and awesome? Read on to find some winter activities you can try.

Winter Hike

Winter hikes in the Smokies are synonymous with calm, quiet and clear views. However, you need to prepare yourself and take precautions. Furthermore, there are specific things that you can only see during this period. Since the trees are bare, you can see deep into the woods and enjoy a clear line of sight to the majestic wildlife. Additionally, you will see some of the human artifacts that are normally hidden by foliage. Isn’t that so amazing?

Winter Conditions Gear Checklist recommended by https://www.outdoors.org/trip-ideas-tips-resources/gear-advice/winter-gear-guide

Skiing and Snowboarding

You can also enjoy cross-country skiing and snowboarding during this period. Find pleasure in visiting the Ober Gatlinburg, a ski resort with good slopes and intermediate terrain to ski. The slopes are also perfect for snowboarding and snow tubing. So much fun in one place!
Beginner’s Guide to Skiing recommended by https://www.thesnowpros.org/

Create a snowman

In winter, if there is enough snow, you can build a snowman. Create some memories and have fun with family and friends as you create your very own snowman. This activity will interest the kids. Why not share in their fun?

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A Hot Tub Cabin

Since you will experience cold during your visit, rent one of the Gatlinburg cabins, especially one with a hot tub. Warm-up your evening as you enjoy the beautiful mountain views.

Night Drive

Take the fun to a whole new level by having that night drive to see the light display in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg. Take that tour to see this amazing scenery. You can check the guide map for location.

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Visit the Artisans

Make your visit memorable by visiting the arts and crafts community of the Smokies. There, you will see various handiworks from paintings, sculptures, ceramics to furniture. Moreover, you can keep the memories by purchasing photos from local photographers.

Image Credit: smokiesadventure.com

Get the Best Views of Waterfalls

Some views such as those of frozen, sparkling snow and ice on higher elevation points of waterfalls can only be enjoyed in winter. You can hike or drive to the waterfalls to have fun at these beautiful sights.

Image Credit: Joshua Bedford – Unsplash

Winterfest

In winter, there is a Winterfest organized at Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg. Save a date to have fun from these memorable events. Furthermore, you will enjoy the light displaces dotting the landscape all around Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg.

Image Credit: mypigeonforge.com

Meal Time

You can’t miss the opportunity of having a good meal in the Smokies. There is Mountain View Restaurant which offers a four-course meal. Remember to make a reservation 24 hours in advance. Furthermore, you can enjoy delicious family-style meals at Mama’s Farmhouse. Relax, enjoy your meal and view as well.

Image Credit: oldcreeklodgegatlinburg.com

Conclusion

There is so much to enjoy in the Smokies during winter. Therefore, don’t wait for summer, spring, or fall to come to visit. Plan to take a winter trip to enjoy these amazing activities. It will be less crowded and you’ll be able to enjoy the park at your own pace. Loads of winter fun awaits you in the Smokies!

“Imagine more than 800 miles of trails winding throughout the park which includes 71 miles of the Appalachian Trail. The Smokies are recognized as one of the most spectacular hiking destinations in the east.”

This article is for you if you want more information on Top 5 Smoky Mountain Hiking Trails.