Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the ideal destination for families looking to spend quality time with one another in the stunning outdoor beauty of the Smokies! With an endless number of picturesque trails, there’s so much to see, from wildlife to historical sites, and so much more. Are you looking for hiking trails that the whole family can enjoy without having to worry about the kids tuckering out or losing interest? Here are 6 of the best hikes in the Smokies for families:
1. Porters Creek Trail
Porters Creek Trail is located in the Greenbrier section of the national park and is one of the best hikes in the Smokies for families thanks to its variety of sights to see. The journey on this trail is about 4 miles roundtrip, making it suitable for families with older children. It features gorgeous wildflowers, historical remnants, and the incredible 60-foot-tall Fern Branch Falls!
2. Kephart Prong Trail
Kephart Prong Trail is another great choice for crews with older children and is considered to be fairly easy to moderate difficulty. Checking in at about 4.2 miles roundtrip, it’s actually located on the North Carolina side of the national park, making it a good option if you want to explore beyond the borders of Tennessee. It traverses alongside mountain streams, features railed footbridges, and offers a glimpse into the old logging industry as the area once featured an old logging railway.
3. Kuwohi
Travel to the highest point in the Smokies and soak up the views at Kuwohi! Previously known as Clingmans Dome, the observation tower here is accessible via a roughly half-mile paved trail. While this trail is short, be aware that it is quite steep, so take your time making your way to the top where incredible views of the Smokies await. Bring a light jacket as temperatures can be quite cooler because of the elevation.
4. Cataract Falls Trail
Start at Sugarlands Visitor Center and take the Cataract Falls Trail, a quick and easy journey great for families with younger children. This trail is only 1.1 mile roundtrip and features the stunning Cataract Falls, making it a favorite among the best hikes in the Smokies for families! This 25-foot-tall waterfall is a sight to behold and makes for a great reward for your children to enjoy for their effort. Don’t forget to snap photos as the foliage in this area is gorgeous.
5. Gatlinburg Trail
The Gatlinburg Trail is another trail accessible from the Sugarlands Visitor Center. It stretches for 1.9 miles one way, or less than 4 miles roundtrip, into the outskirts of Gatlinburg. You’ll journey along a peaceful river on this relatively flat trail. This is one of only 2 trails in the national park that allows both dogs and bikes.
6. Elkmont Nature Trail
Explore the historic Elkmont area of Great Smoky Mountains National Park on the Elkmont Nature Trail. At only 0.8 miles roundtrip it’s a perfect option for families with younger children who want to enjoy the beauty of the great outdoors. This serene trail features a creek and remnants of an old logging town. The kids will love seeing these old cabins and structures!
We know you and your family will enjoy exploring these best hikes in the Smokies! After your journey, relax with us at our family-friendly establishment, where mom and dad can enjoy a refreshing glass of our delicious Southern sweet wines!
