The best place you’ll find hiking trails in Pigeon Forge is The Great Smoky Mountains. Pigeon Forge has some of the best waterfalls for cooling off during those hot summer months and features many strenuous trails for great workouts. Hiking in the Smoky Mountains is a great adventure the whole family will enjoy.
Along the way, you’ll see plenty of breathtaking mountaintops and scenic trails to view all of nature’s beauty. This area may have its challenges, but having your option of different hiking levels can make your outing more enjoyable. Here are our top fifteen trails in Pigeon Forge.
**Please Remember: Before traveling to any trail, please call ahead to check operating hours and if there are any parking fees. To make sure you have the best hiking experience, make sure you pack a hat, sunscreen, water, food, hiking boots, and bug spray. You will also make sure you download maps and directions ahead of time as some trails are not well-marked and there’s little to no cell service.
15 Best Hiking Trails in Pigeon Forge
1. Appalachian Trail: Clingman Cove to Cades Cove
Clingman Cave to Cades Cove is a moderately challenging hike that takes a total of thirteen hours to complete. Since this is such a long hike, dogs are not allowed on this trail so you’ll need to leave your furry friends at home. If you want to take this hike on, you’ll want to practice on that stair stepper! This is a challenging hike for the experienced hiker. The views are stunning and the trails are well-maintained which is perfect for a long trip.
Starting at Clingman’s Dome, you’ll spend only a mile ascending to the top. The remainder of the hike is all descend. This isn’t a heavily used trail and you won’t see much wildlife. There is no cellphone service and the terrain isn’t always stable. Based on reviews, visitors say this trail has amazing views, so make sure you bring a camera along.
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 23.9
Total Elevation Gain: 3,402 Feet
2. Charles Bunion Trail
The Charles Bunion trail is a moderately challenging hike that will take you around four hours to complete. This trail is an awesome hike along the Great Smoky Mountains. For the first mile, you start off ascending through the heavily wooded forest. The trail is well-marked and can sometimes be very wet after recent rain so make sure you wear a good pair of hiking boots. Along the way, you’ll get a glimpse of the valley and other mountains that peek through the trees.
Based on reviews, visitors say this is a rocky hike. If you’re looking for a peaceful, but challenging hike, you can’t pass this one up.
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 8 Miles
Total Elevation Gain: 1,886 Feet
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3. Laurel Falls
Laurel Falls is an easy hike that will take you around an hour to complete. This is a paved trail that is family-friendly, but some areas may be difficult as they’ve deteriorated with age, so strollers and wheelchairs may be a problem. The rocks among the falls are slippery and it’s recommended to not climb to avoid injury. Bikes and pets are not allowed on this hike due to park rules. This trail is very busy on weekends so if you’re looking for a less-crowded hike, we recommend hiking in the early morning on the weekdays.
Based on reviews, visitors say this trail has some great inclines and a beautiful waterfall. Be careful with small children around the cliffs as they offer no protection.
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 2.4 Miles
Total Elevation Gain: 396 Feet
4. Little River Trail to Grouse Creek Campground
The Little River Trail to Grouse Creek Campground is an easy hike that takes around five hours to complete. This trail is open all year long, but it’s not pet-friendly, so you’ll need to leave dogs at home. The trail is flat which gives it its easy rating and you can even go fishing. It’s an easy out and back trail especially if you’re looking for wildflowers. There’s a river that runs next to the trail with a waterfall and wooden bridges.
Based on reviews, visitors say this is a beautiful, well-marked trail that can often become muddy after recent rain. The end of the trail gets a little rocky so make sure you wear a good pair of hiking boots.
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 12.3 Miles
Total Elevation Gain: 1,213 Feet
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5. Anthony Creek Trail
Anthony Creek trail is one of the most popular, hard hikes near Pigeon Forge. Be sure to bring plenty of water and food as this hike can become a bit strenuous. This trail has beautiful scenery, but due to park rules, dogs are not permitted on this trail. The Anthony Creek trail is a single trail that connects the Cades Cove area to the Bote Mountain Trail.
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Based on reviews, visitors say this is a challenging hike with a beautiful view. The trail is uphill the whole way so be prepared to break a sweat!
Difficulty: Hard
Distance: 11.7 Miles
Total Elevation Gain: 3,671 Feet
6. Cane Creek Trail
The Cane Creek trail is one of the easiest hikes you can get to. It is not recommended to hike this trail after a recent rainfall because you’ll be wading in the creek. There is a set of waterfalls that you can also hike to see. Along your hike, you may see frogs and other amphibians in the wetlands.
Based on reviews, visitors say this trail is well-maintained and a pleasant hike. These trails are a bit buggy so make sure to pack bug spray for your trip.
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 1.8 Miles
Total Elevation Gain: 39 Feet
7. Hannah Mountain Trail
The Hannah Mountain Trail is a moderately challenging trail that takes around eight hours to complete. It is open all year long but is not pet-friendly so you’ll need to leave dogs at home. This trail is a flat trail through the forest with very few views. Among the scenery, you’ll see white pine and a variety of oaks.
Based on reviews, this is a peaceful trail and not too hard even for the inexperienced hiker.
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 18.1 Miles
Total Elevation Gain: 2,910 Feet
8. Rich Mountain Loop Trail
The Rich Mountain Loop Trail is a moderately challenging hike that will take you around four hours to complete. The best times you’ll want to visit the trail are from March to October. Not only is this trail great for hiking, but it’s perfect for backpacking, horseback riding, running, walking, and camping. If you want to explore Cades Cove without it being too crowded, this trail is perfect for you. If you’re lucky, you may even see deer and black bears.
Based on reviews, visitors say this is a well-maintained trail with decent views. There isn’t water on the trail so you’ll want to make sure you pack plenty of water and food. This trail also has some steep areas, but they are fairly manageable. You will also come across areas that have loose terrain so make sure you wear a good pair of hiking boots.
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 8.3 Miles
Total Elevation Gain: 1,991 Feet
9. Elkmont Nature Trail
The Elkmont Nature trail is an easy hike that will take you around twenty minutes to complete. If you want a quick trail run, this trail is a perfect warm-up for the beginner hiker. If you hike this trail clockwise, you’ll get the small climb out of the way. After that, you’ll go through several switchbacks that will make your hike easier. If you need a break, there are several benches along the way for resting.
Based on reviews, visitors say this is a nice and quiet trail. If you plan to hike after recent rain, make sure you wear a pair of water-resistant boots as you may experience muddy conditions.
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 0.8 Miles
Total Elevation Gain: 95 Feet
10. Bullhead Trail
The Bullhead Trail is a hard hike that will take you around eight and a half hours to complete. The hike on the way up is gorgeous and you’ll even get to pass rainbow falls. Making it to the top is very strenuous, but if you do, the views can be very rewarding. The trail is rocky and not very well-maintained, so make sure you bring a sturdy pair of hiking boots. The trail can become narrow at times and is near the edge of the cliff.
Based on reviews, visitors say this is a strenuous hike with beautiful views. If you have a fear of heights, you’ll experience plenty of edges so you may want to opt for a different trail to hike.
Difficulty: Hard
Distance: 14.8 Miles
Total Elevation Gain: 3,959 Feet
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11. Baskins Creek Trail
The Baskins Creek Trail is a moderately challenging hike that will take you around two hours to complete. This is a perfect trail that is not overly crowded, quiet and scenic, and challenging enough to give you a great workout. In the beginning, you will start up the hill a bit and go over the mountain with nice views. There is a steep descent before you get to the falls so make sure you come prepared. The waterfall is great, not crowded, but can be a bit strenuous on the way back up. Based on reviews, visitors say their favorite part of this hike is the scenery.
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 3.1 Miles
Total Elevation Gain: 912 Feet
12. Gatlinburg Trail
The Gatlinburg Trail is an easy hiking trail in which bikes and dogs are allowed. The trail is flat and runs through the forest along The Little River. During your hike, you’ll have beautiful views of the river and be able to cross a pedestrian footbridge. This trail will take you a little over an hour to hike and is also great for walking, running, and mountain biking. The Gatlinburg Trail is a great beginner trail so if have little to no experience hiking, you’ll want this to be your starter hike.
Based on reviews, visitors say this is a great hike for families and has plenty of resting spots along the way if you need a break. The trail is very well-maintained and easy to navigate.
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 3.9 Miles
Total Elevation Gain: 164 Feet
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13. Gregory Bald Trail
The Gregory Bald Trail is a hard hike that is difficult to complete even for the experienced hiker. It’s a strenuous hike due to its steep elevation changes. Out and back, this trail will take you around six hours to complete, seven hours at the latest. If you’re not in great physical condition, we recommend not hiking this trail. In April, you’ll be able to see the beautiful wildflowers and in June you’ll be able to see the Azaleas.
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Based on reviews, visitors say this trail has a beautiful breeze with amazing views. This trail is well-maintained and a definite butt-kicker.
Difficulty: Hard
Distance: 11.6 Miles
Total Elevation Gain: 3,359 Feet
14. Spruce Flats Falls
Spruce Flats Falls is a moderately challenging hike that takes around an hour to complete. This is a popular hiking trail so it can become very crowded. If you want a less-crowded hike, it’s recommended to visit this trail in the early morning or on the weekday. This trail is not pet-friendly so you’ll need to leave dogs at home. The trail is pretty steep and rugged, but it has amazing views.
Based on reviews, visitors say to bring hiking shoes and water shoes for the waterfall. The best time to go to this trail is around 8 AM when there are little to no visitors at the waterfall.
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 1.8 Miles
Total Elevation Gain: 413 Feet
15. Kephart Prong Trail
The Kephart Prong Trail is a popular, easy hiking trail that is recommended to visit in the early morning hours to avoid the crowd. It will take you about two hours to complete this hike. Sections of this trail are rocky with exposed boots, so you’ll want to make sure you bring a sturdy pair of hiking boots. Occasionally, you may even see horses along this trail.
Based on reviews, visitors say this is a great family-friendly trail that even small children will enjoy.
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 3.9 Miles
Total Elevation Gain: 833 Feet
— Update: 09-03-2023 — cohaitungchi.com found an additional article 6 Moderate Hikes To Try On Your Next Trip To The Smokies from the website www.pigeonforgechamber.com for the keyword best hikes near pigeon forge.
The Little River Trail
Named after the river that runs along the side, this trail has a moderate incline of 412 feet and beautiful views. This 4.9 mile roundtrip hike is great for families and avid hikers. See cascading streams and waterfalls that rush by boulders and rock formations. The growth of rhododendron and other flora is also to be admired when hiking this trail.
Rainbow Falls
Get excited for this one! Rainbow Falls hiking trail is a visitor and local favorite in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. As you head through Gatlinburg, turn at traffic #8 and follow the historic nature trail into the park. After passing the Noah “Bud” Ogle house you will come to the marked parking area for Rainbow Falls. This moderate trail contains rocky areas and switchbacks. You will also cross a total of 3 log foot bridges over creeks. When you arrive to the falls, you’l notice the rainbows seen in the mist on a sunny afternoon. The 80 foot fall occasionally freezes into an hourglass shape in the winter. a great sight at anytime of the year! This trail is 5.4 miles long round trip.
Ramsey Cascades
Ramsey Cascades offers so much with it’s picturesque landscape and water features! This 8 mile round trip hike is labeled as moderate to more strenuous for hikers. As you make the climb, you’ll eventually gain 2000 feet in elevation! Enjoy hiking beside rivers, streams, and old forests for majority of the hike to the cascades. Fun fact- Ramsey Cascades is the tallest waterfall in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and stands at 105 feet tall!
Clingmans Dome
As the highest point in The Great Smoky Mountains, Clingmans Dome is one of the most popular trails for visitors! The Dome sits at 6,643 feet which makes it the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Although Clingmans Dome is paved and only the length of 1 mile roundtrip, it has a steep incline making it very strenuous. Enjoy miles and miles of views from the top of the observation tower, it also makes a great backdrop for photos!
Alum Cave Trail
For a more adventurous hike with fascinating geological features, you’ll love Alum Cave Trail! This trail is a roundtrip length of 4.4 miles and elevates about 1125 feet. Along this trail you’ll cross streams and bridges through heavily forested areas. Once you reach the “Alum Cave” you will notice it is more of a bluff than a cave. There so many natural landmarks and geological features to explore while your there!
Charlie’s Bunion
Charlie’s Bunion is a perfect hike for any experienced hiker wanting to see gorgeous views! The total roundtrip length is 8.1 miles and elevates about 1600 feet. Throughout your hike you can enjoy spacious views of North Carolina and of course, the Smokies. Hikers can also be sure to spot a variety of wildflowers, trout lilies, and violets! Once you reach the summit of Charlie’s Bunion, a rock outcropping, you’ll notice how it got the name! An ancient hiker reached the top and began to take off his shoes and relax while showing off his bunion that resembled the rocks around him. The views at the top provide panoramic scenes featuring the beautiful mountains.
*Safety Tips*
The Smoky Mountain National Park is bear country. Hikers are recommended to hike in groups of three or more. Hikers should also carry bear spray, comply with all backcountry closures, follow food storage regulations, and maintain a safe viewing distances from any bears they may come across. Feeding, touching, disturbing or willfully approaching wildlife within 150 ft. is illegal in the park. Bears should NEVER be fed.
If approached by a bear, park rangers say to slowly back away and create space for the animal to pass. Do not run. Hikers should make themselves look large, stay together in their group and throw rocks or stick at the bear. It attacked, hikers should defend themselves with any object they can find.
Though rare, bear attacks can occur. Rangers want to protect both the wildlife and the humans that pass through. That is why it is important to note these safety tips before beginning your hike in the Smokies.
— Update: 11-03-2023 — cohaitungchi.com found an additional article Top 5 Trails Near Pigeon Forge for Hiking This Summer from the website eaglesridge.com for the keyword best hikes near pigeon forge.
One of the best outdoor activities to do in the Smoky Mountains is go for a hike. You’ll have the chance to see gorgeous cascading waterfalls, wildflowers, and even wildlife! When you stay at Eagles Ridge Resort, you’ll be just 5 miles away from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which is home to more than 850 hiking trails! To help you decide what trail to explore while you’re here, we’ve come up with the top 5 trails near Pigeon Forge for hiking in the summer:
1. Porters Creek Trail
Porters Creek Trail is a popular spring hike in the Smoky Mountains because of the beautiful waterfalls, and it’s also a great trail near Pigeon Forge for hiking during the summer! The trail runs through a wooded area, which provides a nice relief from the hot summer sun. You’ll get to see parts of history like an old cemetery and a historic farm site, and you’ll even have the chance to see a waterfall! Fern Branch Falls is located about 2 miles into the hike. The 60-foot waterfall drops off the ridge on the left side of the trail. It’s the perfect mix of history and nature!
2. Laurel Falls
Laurel Falls is a gorgeous, 80-foot-tall waterfall. The hike to the waterfall and back is only 2.6 miles, so you won’t have far to go to enjoy the stunning sight. And the best part is that Laurel Falls Trail is only about a 30-minute drive from our resort! Once you reach the waterfall, you’ll notice it has both an upper and lower section, divided by a walkway that crosses the stream at the base of the upper falls. Laurel Falls is one of the most popular hikes in the Smokies, so keep in mind that parking at the trailhead will be limited in the summer!
3. Grotto Falls
Grotto Falls is another waterfall hike in the Smoky Mountains. To get to the falls, you’ll use Trillium Gap Trail for a roundtrip distance of 2.6 miles. This trail takes you through an old-growth hemlock forest. Grotto Falls is a great hike for families with kids, as you’ll mostly be traveling along a wide and well-worn path. What’s unique about the 25-foot-high Grotto Falls is that it’s actually the only waterfall you can walk behind! The cool, moist environment near the falls feels great during the summer, and it’s also a popular spot for salamanders to gather.
4. Ramsey Cascades Trail
You don’t want to miss the chance to see the tallest waterfall in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park! Though the roundtrip distance to the waterfall and back is 8 miles, the breathtaking sight of Ramsey Cascades makes it worth every step. Ramsey Cascades Trail gains more than 2,000 feet in elevation over the 4 miles you’ll hike to the waterfall. Along the way, you’ll follow rushing rivers and streams and pass through an old-growth cove hardwood forest with tiptrees, basswoods, silver bells and yellow birches! Keep in mind that the hike takes about 5-7 hours to complete, so you’ll want to leave early enough that you won’t be hiking back in the dark.
5. Alum Cave Trail
Summer is a great time to hike to the Alum Cave Bluffs! The hike to the bluffs and back is 4.6 miles round trip and takes about 3 hours. If you only have time to hike one trail near Pigeon Forge, make it the Alum Cave Trail. It’s got everything, from scenic views to geological markers. About 1.5 miles into the hike, you’ll reach Arch Rock, a concentration of black slate that is one of the few natural arches in the park. You’ll also see Inspiration Point, which offers panoramic mountain views from an elevation of 4,700 feet. Finally, you’ll reach Alum Cave, which is not a cave but is a concaved bluff that towers about 80 feet high. It’s the perfect spot to take a break from the sweet sunshine and cool off.
Where to Stay
When you stay at Eagles Ridge Resort, you’ll be close to all of the best trails near Pigeon Forge for hiking! We have a variety of Pigeon Forge cabins available that range from 1 bedroom to 9 bedrooms. You’ll be able to enjoy amenities like outdoor hot tubs, fully equipped kitchens, and even game rooms and theater rooms in some of our cabins! After a day of exploring the Smoky Mountains, you’ll love returning to your cozy cabin for a good night’s rest. Check out all of our Pigeon Forge cabins to find the best one for you!
Find out more information about Pigeon Forge hiking, and start planning your summer vacation!
