Posted on 1/6/2025

8 BEST MODERATE HIKING TRAILS IN GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS NATIONAL PARK

Experience the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park with these moderate hiking trails, perfect for adventurous guests staying with Mountain Laurel Chalets in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. These trails offer a balance of challenge and reward, featuring stunning vistas, cascading waterfalls, and diverse ecosystems unique to the Smokies. From the panoramic views of the Clingmans Dome Observation Tower Trail to the historic charm of Porters Creek Trail, these hikes showcase the park's natural beauty and rich heritage. After an invigorating day on the trails, return to the comfort of your Mountain Laurel Chalet, where you can soothe tired muscles in a private hot tub, share stories around the fire pit, and plan your next Smoky Mountain excursion. Book your stay now and start planning your hiking adventure in America's most visited national park! *Please note that a GSM National Park parking pass is required anytime your vehicle is parked more than 15 minutes.

1. Rainbow Falls Trail (5.4 miles round trip)
  • Natural, uneven surfaces, rocky terrain
  • Parking available at Rainbow Falls trailhead
2. Peregrine Peak via alum cave bluff trail (4.5 miles round trip)
  • Natural surfaces, log bridges
  • Parking available at Alum Cave trailhead
3. Clingmans Dome Observation Tower Trail (1 mile round trip)
  • Paved, extremely steep, but short!
  • Parking available at Clingmans Dome Rd lot
4. grotto falls trail via trillium gap trail (2.6 miles round trip)
  • Natural, uneven surfaces with lots of roots/rocks
  • Parking available at Trillium Gap trailhead
5. abrams falls trail (5 miles round trip)
  • Natural, uneven surfaces with lots of roots/rocks
  • Parking available at Abrams Falls trailhead
6. deep creek waterfall loop (2.4 miles round trip)
  • Natural surfaces w/a few paved areas
  • Parking available at Deep Creek Rd parking lot
7. andrews bald trail (3.6 miles round trip)
  • Wide and graveled
  • Parking available at Clingmans Dome Rd lot
8. Porters Creek Trail (4.0 miles round trip)
  • Gravel and natural, uneven surfaces
  • Parking available in a lot at the end of Loop Rd
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