There are hundreds of miles of hiking trails in the Smoky Mountains. People who hike all the time come to the Smokies to enjoy their hobby, but people who are not avid hikers also want to enjoy the national park, which is why we want to share some easy hikes in the Smoky Mountains so you can enjoy them too! Check out these top 6 easy hikes in the Smoky Mountains:
1. Elkmont Nature Trail
Elkmont Nature Trail is 0.8 miles roundtrip and located near Gatlinburg. During the spring and early summer, you will be able to see all kinds of beautiful wildflowers along this nature trail. It is also used to bird watch, and you might spot other wildlife along the trail! It is perfect for small children and senior adults since it is not very long.
2. Gatlinburg Trail
If you are looking for an easy hike in the Smoky Mountains that is longer than 1 mile, you should go on the Gatlinburg Trail. It is about 4 miles roundtrip. The first portion of the trail follows along the Little Pigeon River, and then you will eventually cross it on a footbridge. There are old homestead remains farther along the trail. Gatlinburg Trail is one of the only hikes in the park that is open for dogs.
3. Cataract Falls
If you want to go on an easy trail with a waterfall, you should hike Cataract Falls Trail. It is 1.1 miles roundtrip. The path is clearly laid out, making it simple to follow. There is a creek along this path, which is fun for kids to play in. There are also several unique looking trees, and you might see wildflowers and wildlife. Cataract Falls is near the end of the trail.
4. Sugarlands Valley Nature Trail
Sugarlands Valley Nature Trail is another short, easy hike in the Smoky Mountains. It is 0.5 miles roundtrip. There is a river you get to walk beside and bridges you get to cross. This trail is great for little kids and senior adults.
5. Metcalf Bottoms Trail
If you were already planning a picnic in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, you should go to Metcalf Bottoms. After you eat lunch, you should go on the Metcalf Bottoms Trail! The roundtrip length is 1.5 miles. You will see a couple of historic buildings along this trail, and it is a great way for your family to spend time together!
6. Twin Creeks Trail
An easy trail that provides a great view of the woods in the Smokies and is longer than 1 mile is Twin Creeks Trail. The roundtrip length is 4.5 miles. You might spot wildflowers and wildlife along your trek. There are several old remains from homesteads along this trail. You will really appreciate the beauty of the forest along Twin Creeks Trail.
Plan on being in the Smokies during the summer? Check out these summer hiking trails in the Smoky Mountains!
These are just some of the easy hikes in the Smoky Mountains you could try. Want to know about even more trails? Check out these hiking trails in the Smoky Mountains for more ideas of where you can explore!
