The Great Smokey Mountains offer spectacular hiking opportunities. There are marked and maintained trails for all hiking levels, from beginning hikers to experienced back-packers. The Great Smokey Mountains National Park has more than half a million acres of land and over 800 miles of hiking trails. The Appalachian Trail passes through the Smokies, and that trail system offers thousands of miles of hiking trails all along the eastern United States.
You can choose the trails you want to hike according to difficulty, sights, features along the trail, trail length, and location. Some trails loop, which makes it convenient to park at the trailhead and return to your car. Others will take you from one point to another several miles distant. Check the maps, and know where you are going before you leave. Remember that the elevation will increase the difficulty of the trail if you are not accustomed to it.
The wildflowers in the Smokey Mountains are lovely in the spring. Many of the mountain trails pass through dense areas of old growth forest, and some trails feature rivers and waterfalls. The Porters Creek Trail will take you to historic remains of an old mountain community where stone foundations outline the original buildings and an early cemetery still exists. This historic hike also features a cantilevered barn built in 1865 and a rebuilt farm cabin. The trailhead for this hike is about 10 miles from Gatlinburg.
When you hike in the Smokey Mountains, be sure to wear layers of clothing for a variety of weather conditions. Always stay on the marked trail, and do not hike alone. Carry plenty of water and some energy snacks. Be prepared and take a small flashlight in case you are late getting back.
Comments (0):