Barry PhilipsGatlinburg, Tennessee, is one of the best destinations in the southeastern United States for hiking. Located directly beside Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the city provides easy access to hundreds of miles of mountain trails, waterfalls, forests, ridges and scenic overlooks.
Whether you are a beginner looking for a relaxing nature walk, a family searching for an easy trail, or an experienced hiker ready for a strenuous mountain climb, there are hiking trails in Gatlinburg TN for virtually every ability level.
The Great Smoky Mountains contain more than 800 miles of maintained trails, with elevations ranging from 876 feet to 6,643 feet. Popular destinations around Gatlinburg include Laurel Falls, Grotto Falls, Rainbow Falls, Chimney Tops and Alum Cave Bluffs.
Below are some of the best hiking trails in Gatlinburg TN, including waterfall hikes, family-friendly trails, challenging mountain routes and trails offering spectacular Smoky Mountain views.
Best Hiking Trails in Gatlinburg TN
1. Alum Cave Trail to Mount LeConte
Distance: Approximately 11 miles round trip
Difficulty: Strenuous
Best for: Experienced hikers, mountain views and a full-day adventure
The Alum Cave Trail to Mount LeConte is arguably one of the most spectacular hikes near Gatlinburg. The trail combines forest scenery, interesting geological formations, panoramic mountain views and access to one of the most famous peaks in the Smokies.
The route begins along Alum Cave Creek before climbing through the forest toward Arch Rock and Inspiration Point. From there, hikers reach Alum Cave Bluffs, an enormous rock overhang rather than a traditional cave.
For hikers wanting a longer adventure, the trail continues toward Mount LeConte, one of the highest mountains in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Mount LeConte rises to 6,593 feet.
You do not necessarily have to hike all the way to the summit. Many visitors hike to Alum Cave Bluffs and return, making this a flexible option for people who want impressive scenery without committing to a full-day mountain hike.
2. Grotto Falls Trail
Distance: About 2.6 miles round trip
Difficulty: Moderate
Best for: Families, waterfalls and unique scenery
Grotto Falls is one of the most memorable waterfall hikes near Gatlinburg.
The trail travels through a shaded forest with streams, trees and mountain scenery before arriving at Grotto Falls. One of the reasons this waterfall is so popular is that hikers can walk behind the waterfall itself.
The National Park Service highlights Grotto Falls as a destination along the Trillium Gap Trail and notes the opportunity to walk behind the waterfall.
The relatively short distance makes this a good choice for visitors who want a genuine Smoky Mountain hiking experience without spending an entire day on the trail.
Because the trail is popular, parking can become limited, particularly during busy seasons. Arriving early can make the experience considerably easier.
3. Rainbow Falls Trail
Distance: 5.6 miles round trip to Rainbow Falls
Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
Best for: Waterfalls, forest scenery and serious day hikers
Rainbow Falls is one of the most famous waterfalls near Gatlinburg.
The trail follows a forested route toward the 80-foot waterfall, where sunlight and mist can create the rainbow effect that gives the falls their name.
Although the distance is manageable for experienced hikers, this is not a casual walk. The National Park Service reports approximately 1,500 feet of elevation gain between the trailhead and Rainbow Falls.
The trail also continues toward Mount LeConte, making Rainbow Falls part of a much longer hiking route for experienced hikers.
Because Rainbow Falls is heavily visited, hikers should expect busy conditions and limited parking at popular times.
4. Chimney Tops Trail
Distance: Approximately 3.6 miles round trip
Difficulty: Strenuous
Best for: Mountain views and challenging short hikes
If you want a relatively short hike that feels like a serious workout, Chimney Tops Trail is an excellent choice.
The trail climbs rapidly through the forest, crossing streams and gaining substantial elevation before reaching the designated viewing area.
The big attraction is the panoramic scenery. From the upper portion of the trail, hikers can enjoy impressive views of the surrounding Smoky Mountains.
However, don’t let the relatively short mileage fool you. Chimney Tops is steep. The trail gains roughly 1,400 feet in elevation over approximately two miles.
An important consideration for visitors is that the National Park Service currently restricts public access beyond the closure point at approximately 1.75 miles from the trailhead.
Therefore, hikers should follow current park signs and restrictions rather than attempting to reach closed sections.
5. Gatlinburg Trail
Distance: Approximately 1.9 miles one way
Difficulty: Easy
Best for: Beginners, families, dogs and bicycles
The Gatlinburg Trail is one of the most accessible hiking options around Gatlinburg.
Unlike many mountain trails that require significant climbing, this route provides a relatively easy walk through the forest alongside the Little Pigeon River.
It is particularly useful for visitors who want to experience the natural environment around the Smokies without tackling a strenuous mountain hike.
Another advantage is that the Gatlinburg Trail is one of the few trails within Great Smoky Mountains National Park where dogs are permitted, along with the Oconaluftee River Trail. Bicycles are also permitted on these two trails.
For travelers staying in or around Gatlinburg, this is an excellent introductory hike.
6. Laurel Falls Trail
Distance: 2.6 miles round trip to the waterfall
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Best for: Families and waterfall lovers
Laurel Falls is one of the most famous attractions in the Smoky Mountains.
The trail leads through a mixed hardwood forest to an approximately 80-foot waterfall. Mountain laurel and rhododendron add seasonal color to the surrounding landscape.
Historically, Laurel Falls has been one of the most popular hikes in the national park because it is relatively short and accessible.
Therefore, visitors planning a Gatlinburg hiking trip should verify the trail’s current status before making it part of their itinerary.
7. Baskins Creek Falls Trail
Distance: Approximately 3 miles round trip
Difficulty: Moderate
Best for: Waterfall seekers looking for a quieter alternative
Baskins Creek Falls can be a great alternative for hikers who want a waterfall experience without choosing one of the Smokies’ most famous trails.
The route takes hikers through a wooded mountain environment toward the waterfall. Compared with extremely popular destinations such as Laurel Falls and Rainbow Falls, Baskins Creek can provide a more peaceful experience.
It is particularly appealing to travelers who enjoy the journey as much as the destination.
Because mountain trails can become slippery after rain, appropriate footwear is recommended.
8. Cataract Falls Trail
Distance: About 1.1 miles round trip
Difficulty: Easy
Best for: Beginners and families with children
Cataract Falls is one of the easier waterfall walks near Gatlinburg.
The short distance makes it suitable for visitors who have limited hiking experience or simply want to add a quick nature walk to a busy Gatlinburg vacation.
The trail passes through forested surroundings and leads to a relatively small but attractive waterfall.
For families, older travelers and people who don’t want to spend several hours hiking, Cataract Falls can be an excellent choice.
9. Sugarlands Valley Nature Trail
Distance: Short nature walk
Difficulty: Easy
Best for: Beginners, families and relaxed outdoor experiences
Not every great hiking experience around Gatlinburg needs to involve a steep mountain climb.
Sugarlands Valley Nature Trail is a good option for travelers who want a short introduction to the Smokies.
The area around Sugarlands provides access to several attractions and trails, making it convenient to combine a short hike with other activities in the national park.
This type of trail is particularly useful for families with young children or visitors who want to experience the forest without committing to a strenuous hike.
10. Porters Creek Trail
Distance: Varies depending on turnaround point
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Best for: Wildflowers, streams and peaceful scenery
Porters Creek Trail is an excellent choice for travelers who prioritize forest scenery and seasonal wildflowers over famous waterfalls.
The trail follows Porters Creek through a beautiful section of the Smokies and provides opportunities to see the area’s diverse vegetation.
Spring can be particularly attractive because of the abundance of wildflowers.
It is also a good alternative for visitors who want to escape some of the crowds associated with the most famous Gatlinburg-area waterfall hikes.
11. Ramsey Cascades Trail
Distance: Approximately 8 miles round trip
Difficulty: Strenuous
Best for: Experienced hikers and major waterfall scenery
For experienced hikers looking for a serious adventure, Ramsey Cascades is one of the most rewarding waterfall hikes in the Smokies.
The trail travels through old-growth forest before reaching Ramsey Cascades, one of the park’s most impressive waterfalls.
The National Park Service lists Ramsey Cascades at an elevation of approximately 4,275 feet.
This hike requires significantly more time and physical preparation than shorter waterfall routes. Hikers should plan carefully, carry sufficient water and allow plenty of time to complete the round trip.
12. Charlies Bunion via the Appalachian Trail
Distance: Approximately 8 miles round trip
Difficulty: Strenuous
Best for: Experienced hikers and panoramic mountain views
Charlies Bunion is one of the best choices for hikers who want expansive mountain scenery rather than a waterfall.
The hike follows the Appalachian Trail through the Smokies before reaching the rocky overlook known as Charlies Bunion.
At approximately 5,565 feet, Charlies Bunion offers an elevated perspective over the surrounding mountains.
The route is considerably longer than many popular Gatlinburg hikes, so it is better suited to hikers who are comfortable spending several hours on the trail.
For photographers and experienced outdoor enthusiasts, however, the views can make the effort worthwhile.
How to Choose the Best Gatlinburg Hiking Trail
Choosing the right trail depends largely on your fitness level, available time and what you want to see.
Best Hiking Trail for Beginners
The Gatlinburg Trail and Cataract Falls Trail are among the better choices for beginners because they don’t demand the same physical effort as the longer mountain hikes.
Best Hiking Trail for Families
Grotto Falls is an excellent family-oriented choice for travelers who want a memorable waterfall experience, while shorter nature trails can be better for families with very young children.
Best Hiking Trail for Waterfalls
For waterfall enthusiasts, Grotto Falls, Rainbow Falls, Ramsey Cascades and Laurel Falls are among the standout options.
Keep in mind that the National Park Service describes several of the famous waterfall trails as highly trafficked, with limited parking.
Best Hiking Trail for Mountain Views
For dramatic mountain scenery, consider Alum Cave, Chimney Tops or Charlies Bunion.
Alum Cave is particularly versatile because you can make the hike relatively short by turning around at the bluffs or continue toward Mount LeConte for a much more demanding adventure.
Best Challenging Hike
Alum Cave Trail to Mount LeConte is one of the strongest choices for experienced hikers looking for a full-day challenge.
Ramsey Cascades and Charlies Bunion are also excellent options for those prepared for longer hikes.
Hiking Tips for Gatlinburg TN
Start Early
Popular trails can become crowded, and parking lots can fill quickly. The National Park Service specifically warns about extreme crowding and limited parking on popular routes such as Rainbow Falls.
Check Trail Conditions Before Leaving
Trail closures, weather conditions and maintenance work can change access. Laurel Falls, for example, is currently affected by a major rehabilitation closure.
Wear Appropriate Footwear
Even easy-looking mountain trails can become muddy, rocky or slippery. Hiking shoes or sturdy footwear are preferable to casual footwear on longer routes.
Carry Enough Water
Longer hikes such as Mount LeConte, Ramsey Cascades and Charlies Bunion require considerably more preparation than short nature trails.
Respect Wildlife
The Smokies are home to abundant wildlife, including black bears. Never approach or feed wildlife, and maintain a safe distance.
Stay on Marked Trails
Remaining on designated trails protects both hikers and the environment. It also reduces the risk of getting lost.
Prepare for Changing Weather
Mountain weather can change quickly. A sunny morning in Gatlinburg does not guarantee identical conditions at higher elevations.
Comparison Table: Best Hiking Trails in Gatlinburg TN
| Hiking Trail | Approx. Distance | Difficulty | Best For | Main Attraction |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alum Cave to Mount LeConte | 11 mi RT | Strenuous | Experienced hikers | Mountain views & Mount LeConte |
| Grotto Falls | 2.6 mi RT | Moderate | Families & waterfall lovers | Walk behind waterfall |
| Rainbow Falls | 5.6 mi RT | Moderate–Strenuous | Waterfall hiking | 80-foot waterfall |
| Chimney Tops | 3.6 mi RT | Strenuous | Views & workouts | Panoramic mountain scenery |
| Gatlinburg Trail | 3.8 mi RT | Easy | Beginners & families | River & forest |
| Laurel Falls | 2.6 mi RT | Easy–Moderate | Families | 80-foot waterfall |
| Baskins Creek Falls | ~3 mi RT | Moderate | Quieter waterfall hikes | Waterfall & forest |
| Cataract Falls | ~1.1 mi RT | Easy | Beginners | Short waterfall hike |
| Sugarlands Valley | Short | Easy | Families | Nature & forest |
| Porters Creek | Varies | Easy–Moderate | Nature lovers | Streams & wildflowers |
| Ramsey Cascades | ~8 mi RT | Strenuous | Experienced hikers | Large waterfall |
| Charlies Bunion | ~8 mi RT | Strenuous | Scenic views | Appalachian Trail & overlooks |
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Conclusion
The best hiking trails in Gatlinburg TN offer an impressive variety of experiences. You can take a short walk beside a river, explore a forest waterfall, climb toward a panoramic mountain viewpoint or spend an entire day hiking toward one of the Smokies’ famous peaks.
For beginners, the Gatlinburg Trail and Cataract Falls are excellent places to start. Families and waterfall lovers can consider Grotto Falls, while more experienced hikers may prefer Rainbow Falls, Ramsey Cascades or Charlies Bunion.
If your goal is the ultimate Smoky Mountain hiking experience, Alum Cave Trail toward Mount LeConte stands out for its combination of rock formations, forest scenery, mountain views and challenging elevation gain.
Above all, remember that conditions and trail access can change. Check current Great Smoky Mountains National Park information before setting out, particularly for popular trails with seasonal closures or rehabilitation work.