Are you looking to explore the stunning beauty of Great Smoky Mountains National Park? With over 800 miles of hiking trails, it can be tough to decide where to start. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! We take you through the most popular attractions and hikes in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Clingmans Dome
Clingman’s Dome, the highest peak in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, is named after Thomas Lanier Clingman. Clingman was a prominent 19th-century American explorer, scientist, and politician who conducted extensive research in the Southern Appalachian Mountains.
He was the first person to accurately measure the height of the “Clingman” peak, which was later named in his honor. At 6,643 feet, Clingmans Dome is one of the park’s most popular attractions offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
To get to the observation tower at the top, you’ll need to hike a steep half-mile trail. The trail is paved but not wheelchair accessible due to the steep elevation.
Take your binoculars for the best views of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of a black bear!
*One note to consider is that the road to access Clingman’s Dome is closed from December 1st through March 31st due to winter weather and road accessibility.
Cades Cove
Cades Cove is a scenic valley located in the western part of the park. It’s a popular spot for wildlife viewing with sightings of deer, black bears, and coyotes common throughout the year.
The 11-mile Cades Cove Loop Road is a great way to explore the area, with stops at historic cabins, churches, and a working gristmill. You can also hike the 5-mile round trip trail to Abrams Falls, one of the park’s most scenic waterfalls.
This is the perfect location for a picnic and for kids to run off energy. There is also a small gift shop and a park visitor center. The shop carries both national park and locally crafted goods.
In our opinion, Cades Cove is an essential stop for any Great Smoky Mountains National Park adventure!
Chimney Tops
The Chimney Tops trail is a challenging 3.5-mile round trip hike that offers incredible views of the park. The trail is steep and rocky, ascending around 1,400 feet.
It is considered strenuous, but the reward is worth it: a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
We do not recommend this trail for young children or children who struggle when hiking.
The trailhead is located at Newfound Gap Road, just past the Sugarlands Visitor Center.
Alum Cave Trail
The Alum Cave Trail is one of the most popular hikes in the park, offering a diverse range of terrain and scenery. The trail is 4.4 miles round trip and includes a variety of natural features including a waterfall, a cave, and stunning views of the park.
Although this hike ascends over 1100 feet and is steep while approaching the cave, children often enjoy this trail. The cave itself is fun, and the water crossings and rocky path create the ultimate forest adventure! So, even if your hikers aren’t up for an endurance hike, the Alum Cave Trail is a great family option.
Hikers do have the option of continuing this trial past Alum Cave and up to the summit of Mount LeConte, one of the park’s highest peaks. This portion is for the more dedicated hikers, and is not one of our recommendations for kids in the park!
Rainbow Falls
Rainbow Falls is a 80-foot waterfall. The 5.4-mile round trip hike is a moderate to strenuous hike, but the waterfall is worth the effort.
The trail passes through old-growth forest and offers views of the surrounding mountains. The best time to visit Rainbow Falls is in the spring when the water flow is at its highest.
Ramsey Cascades
Ramsey Cascades is the tallest waterfall in Great Smoky Mountains National Park with a height of 100 feet. The 8-mile round trip trail is a strenuous hike as the path ascends over 2000 feet. However, for the dedicated hiker, the cascades and old-growth forest make it worth the effort.
Along the way, you’ll cross streams and encounter wildlife such as salamanders and, possibly, black bears!
Laurel Falls
Laurel Falls is a 80-foot waterfall located near the Sugarlands Visitor Center. The 2.6-mile round trip hike is a moderate hike that is suitable for all skill levels.
The trail passes through a dense forest and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The waterfall is split into two sections, and you can walk behind the lower section.
We highly recommend this hike for families with kids. What more can you ask for than a waterfall hike that starts at visitor center with flush toilets?
This is a fantastic hike, especially for those days or times when someone in your group has no interest in hiking!
Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail
The Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail is a scenic 5.5-mile drive that takes visitors past waterfalls, historic buildings, and through a lush forest. Visitors can stop at various pull-offs to take in the views.
This is one of the most congested roadways within the park, so you may consider driving this route early in the morning or in in evening.
Mountain Farm Museum
The Mountain Farm Museum is a collection of historic log buildings that provide a glimpse into the area’s rural past. Visitors can explore a farmhouse, barn, smokehouse, and other structures. It is located near the Oconaluftee Visitor Center in Cherokee, North Carolina.
There are often ranger programs and demonstrations at this museum, so it is a fun learning experience for the entire family!
Appalachian Highlands Science Learning Center
The center is operated by the Great Smoky Mountains Association in partnership with the National Park Service and offers a variety of educational programs, interactive exhibits, classrooms, and a research library.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers visitors a diverse array of activities and attractions that showcase the natural beauty and rich cultural history of the region. The park’s most popular hikes offer breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys while attractions such as Cades Cove and the Mountain Farm Museum provide a glimpse into the area’s fascinating history and culture.
Whether you are a nature lover, history buff, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat in the great outdoors, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a must-see destination that will leave you with lasting memories. For more ideas on kid-friendly activities within the park, check out THIS post.
