The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is home to 150 hiking trails, and they range in length, difficulty, and sights. If you’re looking for a shorter hike that won’t take all day, there are plenty of options! These trails are perfect for beginners and families who want to enjoy beautiful scenery without embarking on an all-day trek. Keep reading to learn more about some of the fantastic short hikes in the Smoky Mountains that are under 4 miles.
1. Trail to Kuwohi Observation Tower
The trail to Kuwohi Observation Tower leads to the top of the highest peak in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park at 6,643 feet! The observation tower provides 360-degree views of the surrounding landscape. On a clear day, visibility can stretch more than 100 miles! To reach the tower, you’ll hike a paved trail that spans approximately 1 mile round trip. The path is quite steep, but there are benches along the way where you can stop and catch your breath. The views at the top are well worth the effort!
2. Trillium Gap Trail to Grotto Falls
One of the best short hikes in the Smoky Mountains is also one of the top waterfall hikes! Take the Trillium Gap Trail from the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail to reach Grotto Falls, a stunning 25-foot-tall waterfall that you can walk behind! This creates a breathtaking photo opportunity and a refreshing spot to cool off during the warmer months. The hike to and from the falls is approximately 2.6 miles round trip and travels through a lush forest filled with local flora and fauna.
3. Little Brier Gap Trail
The Little Brier Gap Trail is an easy, short hike in the Smoky Mountains. This wide, well-worn trail will take you back in time to a different way of life! The hike is 2.6 miles round trip and follows along a gentle stream known as Little Brier Branch. The trailhead is next to the Little Greenbrier Schoolhouse, a small schoolhouse built in the 1880s. Continue down the trail to reach the Walker Sisters Place, where you’ll find a restored cabin and other historical structures that belonged to five spinster sisters who lived a traditional mountain life.
4. Gatlinburg Trail
Are you looking for a short hike in the Smoky Mountains that doesn’t take much travel to reach? The Gatlinburg Trail stretches from the Sugarlands Visitor Center to the outskirts of downtown Gatlinburg. It spans 1.9 miles one way, but you can turn around at any point to make your hike as short or as long as you’d like! The trail is wide and mostly flat, providing an easy walk for all ages. Enjoy walking alongside the West Prong of the Little Pigeon River and through the scenic forest. This is one of the only trails in the national park where dogs are allowed, making it a great option if your dog is staying with you at one of our pet-friendly cabins!
5. Baskins Creek Trail
If you’re looking for short hikes in the Smoky Mountains that lead to waterfalls, you should definitely explore the Baskins Creek Trail! This lesser-known gem travels through the forest to a 40-foot, 2-tiered waterfall. Baskins Falls is a peaceful spot to take photos and enjoy a family picnic! The hike to and from the falls is roughly 3.1 miles round trip and is considered easy to moderate. During the hike, you’ll gain a total of 912 feet, and some parts of the trail are a bit steep.
6. Andrews Bald Trail
One of the most picturesque short hikes in the Smoky Mountains is Andrews Bald Trail! This trail has a roundtrip length of 3.5 miles and is both well maintained and easy to navigate. It has an elevation gain of 900 feet, but stone stairs make the climb manageable. The first part of the hike is mostly downhill through peaceful sections of the forest. You’ll then make your way uphill to reach Andrews Bald. This scenic spot offers spectacular mountain views and is perfect for a picnic away from the crowds!
More Family-Friendly Hikes in the Smoky Mountains to Explore
These short hikes in the Smoky Mountains are an excellent option for families with kids! Are you looking for more trails to explore as a family? Check out this list of kid-friendly trails for hiking near Pigeon Forge to experience the beauty of nature together!
