One of the most popular things to do in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is hiking! People come from all over the world to explore the trails, but you don’t have to be an avid hiker to go out and romp around in the woods! There are plenty of easy hikes you’ll be able to enjoy while you’re in town! Here are 6 of the best hikes in the Smoky Mountains for beginners:
1. Elkmont Nature Trail
2. Cataract Falls
Another hike in the Smoky Mountains that’s great for beginners is Cataract Falls. The trail is 1.1 miles roundtrip, and the path is easy to follow with wooden logs laid out on both sides of the trail. Cataract Falls has all kinds of cool things to see as you hike, including unique trees, a waterfall at the end of the trail, and creeks following along the path. You can easily find the trailhead because it’s located next to the Sugarlands Visitor Center.
3. Sugarlands Valley Nature Trail
4. Laurel Falls
Another popular hike in the Smoky Mountains that’s great for beginners is Laurel Falls. The trail and the waterfall get their name from the mountain laurel that covers the trailhead in the spring. This hike is also paved, but it is a pretty good uphill climb. There are a few steep drop offs, so be cautious as you hike up. Once you reach the top, you’ll see the 80-foot-tall Laurel Falls, which is worth the trek up the mountain!
5. Gatlinburg Trail
6. Little River Trail
Little River Trail is considered easy, which makes it perfect for beginners. The roundtrip length is 4.9 miles, and you’ll start out hiking beside the cascading river with large boulders and several small waterfalls. In the spring and summer, you’ll spot a ton of wildflowers along the path. This is a great trail for enjoying the scenic beauty of the mountains.
These are just some of the hikes in the Smoky Mountains that are great for beginners! After a long day of hiking in the national park, you’ll be ready to come back to a cozy room and relax. Our hotel is the perfect place to unwind after exploring! Look through our Gatlinburg hotel rooms and book your next trip today!