The Best Hikes Near Gatlinburg for Every Skill Level

Published: August 29, 2026  |  Last updated: August 2026  |  Written by: Jess & Michele, The WildNest Collective

The best hike near Gatlinburg, Tennessee depends entirely on who you are when you arrive. There are trails within 20 minutes of our cabins on Braydens Way in Pittman Center that will take your breath away — some because of the views, some because of the elevation gain. Here is our honest breakdown of the trails we recommend by skill level, all within Great Smoky Mountains National Park or its immediate surroundings.

Easy Hikes — Under 3 Miles, Minimal Elevation

Laurel Falls Trail — 2.6 miles round trip, 300 ft elevation gain

Laurel Falls is the most visited waterfall in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and with good reason. The paved trail moves through hardwood forest to a 75-foot cascade that splits into upper and lower falls. Accessible from the Fighting Creek Gap Trailhead on Little River Road, approximately 20 minutes from our cabins. Go before 9am — by mid-morning on fall weekends, the parking area fills completely. In October, the fall color on this trail is exceptional.

Cataract Falls Trail — 1.4 miles round trip, 200 ft elevation gain

An underrated alternative to Laurel Falls with a similar waterfall payoff and significantly less foot traffic. Access via the Sugarlands Visitor Center area. The trail follows a creek bed that is particularly beautiful after rain.

Gatlinburg Trail — 4.0 miles round trip, flat

The only trail in the park that allows leashed dogs and bicycles. Follows the West Prong of the Little Pigeon River from the Sugarlands Visitor Center to the Gatlinburg Welcome Center. Walk as far as you like and turn back at any point.

Moderate Hikes — 3 to 8 Miles, 500 to 2,000 ft Elevation

Alum Cave Trail to Alum Cave Bluffs — 4.4 miles round trip, 1,100 ft elevation gain

The hike we recommend above all others to WildNest guests who want a genuine mountain experience without a full-day commitment. The trail begins at the Alum Cave Trailhead on Newfound Gap Road and passes through old-growth hemlocks before arriving at a massive concave bluff formation unlike anything else in the region. Approximately 25 minutes from Braydens Way.

Chimney Tops Trail — 4.0 miles round trip, 1,400 ft elevation gain

Iconic Smokies trail ending at twin rocky summits with 360-degree views of the high ridgeline. The final half-mile involves scrambling over exposed rock — not technical climbing, but not suitable for those uncomfortable with heights. In October, the summit views into the color below are extraordinary. Reservations required for the trailhead parking area May 15 through October 31 — book at recreation.gov.

Hen Wallow Falls Trail — 4.4 miles round trip, 700 ft elevation gain

One of the best waterfall hikes in the park and consistently overlooked because it requires a drive to the Cosby area (approximately 30 minutes from our cabins). The payoff is a 90-foot cascade. The trail is significantly quieter than western-park counterparts — a meaningful advantage during foliage season.

Strenuous Hikes — 8+ Miles, 2,000+ ft Elevation

Mount LeConte via Alum Cave Trail — 11 miles round trip, 2,863 ft elevation gain

Mount LeConte is the third-highest peak in the Smoky Mountains at 6,593 feet. The Alum Cave approach is the most scenic of the five routes to the summit. Allow 6 to 8 hours. Start no later than 7am. LeConte Lodge at the summit offers hot meals and primitive lodging — book months in advance.

Ramsey Cascades Trail — 8.0 miles round trip, 2,200 ft elevation gain

The tallest waterfall in Great Smoky Mountains National Park at 100 feet. The trail begins in an old-growth forest of tulip poplars among the largest trees in the eastern United States. The approach involves several creek crossings — waterproof footwear is strongly recommended. Located in the Greenbrier area, approximately 35 minutes from Pittman Center.

Trailhead Reservations — What You Need to Know

Since May 2024, Great Smoky Mountains National Park has required reservations for vehicle entry at several high-traffic trailheads between 9am and 4pm during peak periods. Always check recreation.gov before your visit. Most trailheads accessed before 9am do not require reservations. An early start is both practically necessary and experientially superior — the park at 7am in October is a different place than the park at 11am.

→ Our cabins on Braydens Way are your base camp for all of it. The trails are out there. The hot tub is waiting when you get back. Check availability.