One of the best things to do in Great Smoky Mountains National Park with kids is undoubtedly exploring the natural beauty of the area. Hiking is a great activity for not only spending quality time together but also getting in some exercise and taking in some pretty incredible sites! So next time you visit Gatlinburg with your family, make sure to check out some of the best hikes in the Great Smoky Mountains for families:
1. Gatlinburg Trail
For a quick and easy stroll with the family, the Gatlinburg Trail is a relatively flat 1.9-mile trail that leads from the outskirts of Gatlinburg to the Sugarlands Visitor Center. Along the way, you’ll pass views of the Little Pigeon River and the foundations of historic buildings, making this an interesting walk for sightseeing! You can choose to walk the entire length of the trail or turn around whenever you like to shorten the experience. This is also one of the best trails in the Smoky Mountains for families because it’s bike-friendly and dog-friendly!
2. Sugarlands Valley Nature Trail
Another kid-friendly hike near Gatlinburg your family can enjoy is the Sugarlands Valley Nature Trail. This loop trail is only 0.5 miles long, and the path is paved, making it stroller-friendly and wheelchair-accessible as well. The Sugarlands Valley Nature Trail can be found just behind the Sugarlands Visitor Center and is a great spot to enjoy scenic views while taking an easy walk with the whole family. You’ll even see remnants of an old homestead that predates the founding of the park!
3. Cataract Falls
The trail to Cataract Falls is another of the best waterfall hikes in the Great Smoky Mountains, as it offers amazing views of the 25-foot Cataract Falls and is less than a mile roundtrip. It’s one of the most accessible Gatlinburg hikes with kids or anyone who has trouble walking long distances. There are several great spots to enjoy the views along this trail; plus, it is located less than 2 miles from downtown Gatlinburg, making it an easy excursion to take with the family! You’ll also find the trailhead near the Sugarlands Visitor Center.
4. Elkmont Nature Trail
The Elkmont Nature Trail may be a short walk in the woods, but it’s one of the most scenic routes you can take! You’ll cross a creek via a small footbridge, see lots of blooming wildflowers in the spring and summer, and may even see a creeping critter or two!
5. Porters Creek Trail
Another of the best hikes in the Great Smoky Mountains for families is the Porters Creek Trail, which offers a 4-mile round trip that will take you past old forests, wildflower patches, the Messer farm site, the Ownby cemetery, and Fern Branch Falls. While this trail is a bit longer than some of the others we’ve mentioned, it is relatively flat and considered fairly easy for families of all ages!
6. Laurel Falls
Note: The Laurel Falls trail is currently closed for rehabilitation. One of the most popular hikes in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the paved trail to Laurel Falls is 2.6 miles round trip. The tiered falls are 80 feet tall with a bridge walkway in between, perfect for taking a family photo! Just keep in mind that this trail is incredibly popular and parking can often be limited!
Read More: “5 Smoky Mountain Waterfalls You’ll Love Visiting”
Now that you know about some of the best hikes in the Great Smoky Mountains for families, you’re well-equipped to head out and explore! If you’re ready to start planning your next getaway to the Smoky Mountains, check out the affordable Family Suites at our downtown Gatlinburg hotel. We look forward to welcoming you to Greystone Lodge on the River!
