Hiking in the Smokies
About 1.4 miles down the Alum Cave Bluff Trail, you’ll come to Arch Rock. Pictured are the stairs that wind through and under the rock.
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is well known for its vast amount of hiking trails. Visiors flock to the park to gaze at rushing waterfalls, view breathtaking vistas, explore fascinating historic settlement remains, and enjoy the sanctuary of the wilderness.
Hikes can range from simple to very strenuous. Some hikes can be completed in a half day, a full day, or (for the adventurous) multiple days. A person could literally spend an entire vacation walking through the Smokies.
In addition to the sprawling trails and invigorating hikes, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers an array of vibrant flora and fauna that transforms the landscape across seasons. The spring paints the terrain with wildflowers in a kaleidoscope of colors, while fall sets the foliage ablaze with autumnal hues.
The wildlife in the park is both varied and thriving. Sightings of black bears, elk, and numerous bird species provide exciting encounters for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike. Furthermore, the park extends beyond mere physical exploration by offering rich cultural experiences, particularly through its preserved historic buildings – from old schools to churches and barns – providing a glimpse into the life of settlers in the region.
Engage in the multitude of experiences offered by the park, all while being enveloped in the tranquil embrace of the Smokies, providing a respite and connection to nature that is profoundly rejuvenating.
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Gold Hiking In The Smokies Listings
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301 N Haywood St
Waynesville, NC 28786
(828) 492-0427
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Outdoors for womenSafe, non-intimidating
Outdoor lifestyle skills
As a female, it can be overwhelming or scary to participate in or take on a new activity that is known as male dominated. Let’s face it, male and females typically have different learning styles and/or environments. Our goal is to provide female, adult-learning centered classes and activities that build skills, confidence and empowerment. We believe this will help women become more comfortable in the outdoors, encouraging them to become engaged and involved with their families in new or current outdoor activities. Ultimately bringing families together, building stronger bonds, keeping them together and increasing the number of people involved in the outdoors. All while fellowshipping, making new friends and having fun with other women. So, if you have ever wanted to learn more about an outdoor activity or skill, join the guys, your family, or friends in the outdoors and just didn’t know how to get started, give us a try.
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Most Popular Hiking Trails
Before You Come
- Decide if you’re a causal hiker or a serious hiker and plan your hike accordingly. Most folks can hike a 2-3 mile round-trip but only those who are physically fit can do the full-day or multi-day trips.
- Review how difficult the climb will be. See further down for details.
- If you’re planning a multiple day hike, call the Great Smoky Mountains National Park Backcountry Office at (865) 436-1231 to reserve a campsite or shelter that is on your hike path and file for a backcountry permit. Shelter reservations must be made one month in advance. No tent camping is allowed at shelters. You can only stay one night at a time at a shelter; you can stay up to three nights at a campsite. Pets are prohibited in the backcountry.
- If you are not starting and ending at the same site, have plans for someone to pick you up or drop you off. There are several hiker shuttle services that operate in the Smoky Mountains area.
When You’re Ready To Hike
- Go to any Visitor Center within the park to find out the latest trail conditions.
- Pick up a backcountry permit if you are planning to spend the night on the trails. You may also decide to purchase a trail map (recommended for multi-day hikes).
- Travel to the trailhead and begin your hiking adventure!
Streams are very common along trails, since many trails in lower elevations are carved out along side the streams’ banks.
Remember to plan ahead, bringing enough water, food, a first aid kit, and any other needed supplies.
If you aren’t sure where to begin your hike in the Smokies, we recommend checking out some of the park’s waterfalls for starters. You can also check out these most popular trails in the Smokies. Or if you need something a little more adventurous, you can choose a geographical section on the left side of this page and find a trail that you would like to explore.
Difficulty of Trails
- Easy – Beginner level with easy access to sites.
- Moderate – Beginning level trails with uphill and downhill slopes.
- Average – Length of less than five miles taking up half a day. Trail may include uphill, downhill sloped terrain.
- Expert – Trail that has many obstacles and requires a full day or more to hike it.
- Strenuous – A very difficult trail, including climbing a mountain, crossing streams with no bridges, steep ledges, vertical climbs, and steep down-hills.
Trail Length
- Hour – A trail that can be done in two hours or less
- Half-Day – A trail that may require water and a snack. Hiking up to 5 miles
- Full-Day – A trail that will take most of the day to hike. Hiking 5-13 miles
- Multi-Day – A trip that will take more than one day to complete. Hiking 13+ miles