5 Easy Hikes in the Smoky Mountains Anyone Can Do

Thinking about going hiking but aren’t sure which hikes you should do? There are several easy hikes in the Smokies that are perfect for anyone. Whether you have regular hikers or someone who has never been before, everyone will have fun on these easy trails in the Smoky Mountains. Here are 5 easy hikes in the Smoky Mountains anyone can do:

1. Gatlinburg Trail

A great trail for people of all ages and abilities is the Gatlinburg Trail. It is right outside of downtown Gatlinburg, making it a great hike for families. This trail is 3.8 miles roundtrip and is mostly flat. You’ll cross over the Little Pigeon River on a footbridge, and there are beautiful wooded views all along the trail. This is one of the only trails in the entire Great Smoky Mountains National Park that allows dogs on it. Near the end of the trail, you’ll see old remains of homes from the pioneer days.

2. Laurel Falls Trail

One of the popular easy hikes in the Smoky Mountains is Laurel Falls Trail. This trail is paved, making it pretty easy to navigate since there aren’t any roots and rocks to trip on. The roundtrip distance is 2.6 miles, and you’ll have beautiful wooded views all the way up. Closer to the top, you’ll be able to look out at the mountains. Once you reach the top, you’ll see the 80-foot-tall waterfall. It is split into two tiers, and you can walk across it on a footbridge. There’s a great place to take pictures and enjoy the view.

3. Cataract Falls Trail

Cataract Falls Trail is a 1.1-mile easy hike in the Smoky Mountains that’s perfect for anyone. Kids and older adults will love this trail since it has a little bit of everything, and even people who hike all the time will enjoy it. You’ll get to cross creeks on little bridges and see all kinds of cool trees and rocks along the trail. Closer to the end of the trail, you’ll see Cataract Falls, a small waterfall that is beautiful.

4. Elkmont Nature Trail

Elkmont Nature Trail is an 0.8-mile hike that’s great for anyone to do. It is a loop trail, and many people enjoy this trail when they want to see native plants and small wildlife along their journey. This is a great trail any time of the year, but during spring you’ll probably see some wildflowers. In the fall, you’ll get to take in the changing colors on the trees and other foliage. You might even spot some wildlife.

5. Sugarlands Valley Nature Trail

Another easy hike in the Smoky Mountains is the Sugarlands Valley Nature Trail. It is near the Sugarlands Visitor Center and Gatlinburg. You can see and hear the river from the trail, and it is fairly short at 0.5 of a mile long. This trail is also paved, making it a little easier to navigate as you go. People of all abilities and ages will enjoy the Sugarlands Valley Nature Trail.

These easy hikes in the Smoky Mountains are the perfect way to get out in nature and spend time with your loved ones. Ready to plan your next vacation? Look through our cabins in the Smoky Mountains and book one today!