Quick answer: some of the best Smoky Mountains hikes are Alum Cave Trail (to the bluffs or on to Mount LeConte), Charlies Bunion on the Appalachian Trail, Rainbow Falls, Abrams Falls, Chimney Tops and the short walk up to Kuwohi (formerly Clingmans Dome). There’s no entrance fee, but you need a parking tag ($5 daily, $15 weekly or $40 annual) to park for more than 15 minutes.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park has more than 800 miles of trails, from easy waterfall walks to tough summit climbs.
Top Trails at a Glance
| Trail | Approx. round trip | Difficulty | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alum Cave Bluffs | 4.6 mi | Moderate | Arch Rock, Alum Cave Bluffs, great views |
| Mount LeConte via Alum Cave | 11 mi | Strenuous | Summit lodge and views |
| Charlies Bunion (from Newfound Gap) | 8 mi | Moderate–strenuous | Rocky outcrop on the AT |
| Rainbow Falls | 5.4 mi | Moderate | 80 ft waterfall |
| Abrams Falls (Cades Cove) | 5 mi | Moderate | Wide, powerful falls |
| Chimney Tops | 3.5 mi | Strenuous (steep) | Observation point; summit closed since 2016 fire |
| Grotto Falls | 2.6 mi | Easy–moderate | Walk behind the falls |
| Kuwohi Observation Tower | 1 mi | Easy (steep paved) | Highest point in the park |
Distances are approximate. Check the NPS website for current trail conditions and closures.
Parking Tags and Fees
- No entrance fee to the park.
- A parking tag is required to park for more than 15 minutes: $5 daily, $15 weekly or $40 annual.
- Buy online through the NPS or at visitor centres.
Best Time to Hike
Spring brings wildflowers and strong waterfalls, autumn brings spectacular colour (and crowds), and summer is busy and humid. Winter can close high roads such as the road to Kuwohi.
Safety Tips
- Start early: popular trailheads fill up by mid-morning.
- Stay well back from black bears; never feed wildlife.
- Rocks near waterfalls are slippery; don’t climb on them.
- Carry rain gear, because mountain weather changes quickly.
Our Picks
FAQ
What is the most popular hike in the Smoky Mountains?
Alum Cave Trail and Laurel Falls are among the busiest. Check NPS updates for any closures.
Is Clingmans Dome still called Clingmans Dome?
It was officially renamed Kuwohi in 2024, its Cherokee name.
Do I need a parking tag to drive through?
No. You only need one if you park for more than 15 minutes.
Related: Best hikes on the East Coast · Hiking the Georgia mountains
Last checked: November 2026. Fees and rules change, so confirm with official sources before you travel.
Hi, I am Emam Hasan — founder and editor of BrokeMountain. I oversee this blog’s hiking, camping and outdoor gear guides, making sure every article is well-researched, accurate and genuinely helpful for your time on the trail. Enjoy it!
