Top Hiking Trails Near Gatlinburg Tennessee
Welcome to our guide of the top 5 hiking trails near the picturesque town of Gatlinburg, Tennessee. Nestled on the border of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Gatlinburg offers a diverse range of trails that cater to all levels of hiking enthusiasts. From gentle loops perfect for beginners and families to challenging treks that reward with breathtaking views, these trails showcase the best of Tennessee's natural beauty. So lace up your hiking boots and get ready to explore the stunning landscapes that these top-rated trails have to offer!
Grotto Falls
Grotto Falls is an incredible walk-behind waterfall! Are you holidaying with your elderly parents or young kids who are just starting to explore hiking or need to improve their physical stamina? Grotto Falls is an entry-level trail at just 2.6 miles and 585 foot elevation gain. But don't let its beginner status fool you--walking behind the falls is an extraordinary experience. You may get a little wet, but you won’t get drenched. The beautiful trail winds uphill to the falls through lush vegetation and past mountain streams, and then completely downhill on the way back.
Porter's Creek Trail
This moderately difficult 4-mile roundtrip hike meanders through the woods, past an old cemetery, creek views, historic buildings, and a 40-foot cascading waterfall. Though a favorite, frequented by both locals and experienced tourists, the trail is in the less-traveled Greenbrier section of the park. The lush and uncrowded setting makes it the perfect place to unwind. In addition, wildflower viewing during spring is spectacular! This serene hike offers plenty of vistas and history and is the perfect place to escape for an afternoon.
Cucumber Gap Loop
This 5-mile loop near Elkmont campground is moderately difficult, with an 830 foot elevation gain. The trail is beautiful at any time of year, but from mid-March through April, it offers spectacular wildflower viewing. The trail follows a beautiful cascading stream, the Little River. Fall colors are also amazing along the Cucumber Gap Trail.
Rainbow Falls
Rainbow Falls is the tallest single-drop waterfall in the Smoky Mountains. Although the trail is difficult and will take 3-5 hours to hike, this is one of the most enjoyable and scenic hiking trails in the Smoky Mountains. Do not bring young children, but it highly recommended for those who are capable of hiking a moderately difficult 5+ mile trail.
Alum Cave Trail to Mt. LeConte
This popular trail is one of the most challenging, but also most rewarding trails in the Smokies. The 11-mile roundtrip Alum Cave Trail is unrivaled in geological markers, breathtaking views, and sheer beauty. With 2,700 feet elevation gain, this is the shortest trail to Mt. LeConte, but also one of the steepest. For a more moderate hike, turn around at Arch Rock (2.8 mi roundtrip), or Alum Cave Bluffs (4.6 mi roundtrip)
