If you’re looking for things to do in Pigeon Forge, try hiking. Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, offers more than just theme parks and country music shows. This Smoky Mountain town serves as a gateway to some of the most breathtaking hiking trails in the eastern United States. Let’s explore the top hiking trails around Pigeon Forge that’ll get your heart pumping and your camera clicking.
Length: 4 miles round trip
Difficulty: Strenuous
Elevation Gain: 1,400 feet
The Chimney Tops Trail is a classic Smoky Mountain hike that rewards adventurers stunning views of the surrounding peaks. This trail packs a punch, climbing over 1,400 feet in just two miles. The path starts gently enough, crossing several scenic bridges over rushing mountain streams. But don’t be fooled, the last mile is a grueling uphill battle that’ll test your endurance.
As you near the summit, you’ll encounter steep rock scrambles that require careful footing. The trail’s final section was damaged by wildfires in 2016, but a new observation platform allows hikers to safely enjoy panoramic views without compromising the fragile ecosystem at the very top.
The payoff for your efforts? Jaw-dropping 360-degree vistas of Mount LeConte, Mount Kephart, and the lush valleys below. It’s a photographer’s paradise, especially during sunrise or sunset when the mountains are bathed in golden light.
Length: 4.4 miles round trip to Alum Cave Bluffs, 11 miles round trip to Mount LeConte summit
Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous
Elevation Gain: 1,125 feet to Alum Cave Bluffs, 2,763 feet to Mount LeConte summit
The Alum Cave Trail is a choose-your-own-adventure kind of hike. You can opt for a moderate 4.4-mile round trip to Alum Cave Bluffs or push on to the summit of Mount LeConte for an epic 11-mile journey.
The trail begins by following Alum Cave Creek through old-growth hardwood forest. About 1.3 miles in, you’ll reach Arch Rock, a unique geological formation that requires navigating stone steps cut into the rock.
Continue climbing, and you’ll arrive at Alum Cave Bluffs. Despite the name, it’s not a true cave but rather a concave bluff about 80 feet high and 500 feet long. In spring, you might spot white-fringed phacelia flowers blooming on the cave floor.
If you’re up for the challenge, keep going to reach the summit of Mount LeConte, the third-highest peak in the Smokies. The views are out of this world, stretching across the entire park and beyond.
Length: 2.6 miles round trip
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Elevation Gain: 314 feet
Looking for a family-friendly hike that still delivers on scenery? Laurel Falls Trail fits the bill perfectly. This paved trail is accessible for most fitness levels and even strollers, making it ideal for families hiking younger children.
The star attraction is the 80-foot high Laurel Falls, a multi-tiered waterfall that’s particularly impressive after a good rain. The trail meanders through lush forest, offering glimpses of mountain views along the way.
While the trail is relatively easy, there are some steep drop-offs near the falls, so keep a close eye on children. The area around the waterfall can get slippery, but there’s a sturdy footbridge that crosses the upper section of the falls, providing a great vantage point for photos.
Length: 3.6 miles round trip
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 899 feet
For a unique hiking experience, head to Andrews Bald via the Forney Ridge Trail. This hike starts at the Clingmans Dome parking area, already the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park accessible by car.
The trail descends through a spruce-fir forest before opening up to Andrews Bald, a grassy meadow perched high in the mountains. These mountain balds are natural wonders, offering sweeping views you typically only get above the treeline in much higher mountain ranges.
In June, the bald bursts into color flame azaleas and rhododendrons bloom. It’s a prime spot for wildflower enthusiasts and photographers alike. Pack a picnic and spend some time soaking in the panoramic views of the Smokies and beyond.
Remember, while the hike to Andrews Bald is mostly downhill, you’ll need to climb back up on the return trip. Take your time and bring plenty of water.
Length: 3.8 miles round trip
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation Gain: 173 feet
If you’re staying in Pigeon Forge and want a change of scenery, consider the nearby Gatlinburg Trail. This easy, flat trail connects the Sugarlands Visitor Center to the outskirts of Gatlinburg, offering a pleasant stroll along the West Prong of the Little Pigeon River.
What sets this trail apart is that it’s one of only two trails in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park that allows both bikes and leashed dogs. It’s perfect for a family outing or a quick nature escape between other Pigeon Forge activities.
The trail passes by the remains of several old homesites, offering a glimpse into the area’s history. Interpretive signs along the way provide information about the local flora and fauna. Keep an eye out for wildlife – deer, turkey, and even black bears are sometimes spotted near the trail.
Length: 11.1 miles round trip
Difficulty: Strenuous
Elevation Gain: 3,045 feet
For experienced hikers looking for a challenge, the Mount Cammerer Trail delivers in spades. This strenuous hike rewards your efforts with some of the most spectacular views in the Smokies.
The trail follows the Appalachian Trail for much of its length, climbing steadily through diverse forest ecosystems. As you gain elevation, you’ll notice the vegetation changing hardwoods to spruce-fir forest.
The summit of Mount Cammerer is marked by a historic fire tower that offers 360-degree views of the surrounding mountains. On a clear day, you can see for miles in every direction, taking in the rolling peaks of the Smokies and the adjacent Pigeon River Gorge.
This hike is best attempted by fit, experienced hikers. It’s a full-day commitment, so start early, bring plenty of water and snacks, and be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions at higher elevations.
Length: 4 miles round trip
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Elevation Gain: 699 feet
Porters Creek Trail, located in the Greenbrier area of the park, offers a delightful mix of natural beauty and historical interest. This lesser-known trail is a great option if you’re looking to escape the crowds often found on more popular routes.
The first mile of the trail is wide and relatively flat, following alongside the burbling Porters Creek. This section is particularly beautiful in spring when wildflowers carpet the forest floor. Look for trillium, spring beauties, and violets among others.
About a mile in, you’ll come across the remnants of the Elbert Cantrell farmstead, including a barn built in the 1930s. A short side trail leads to the John Messer farm site and a spring house.
Continue on, and you’ll reach Fern Branch Falls, a 60-foot cascade that’s especially impressive after heavy rains. While not as grand as some other falls in the park, its serene setting makes it a perfect spot for a break before heading back.
Length: 5.4 miles round trip
Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous
Elevation Gain: 1,653 feet
Rainbow Falls Trail is named for its main attraction: the 80-foot Rainbow Falls, the highest single-drop waterfall in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The trail to reach it is a steady uphill climb that’ll give you a good workout.
As you hike, you’ll cross several footbridges over LeConte Creek, offering numerous opportunities to cool off on hot days. The trail is rocky in places, so sturdy hiking boots are recommended.
The waterfall is most impressive after periods of heavy rain. On sunny afternoons, the mist creates rainbows in the falls, giving the waterfall its name. If you’re up for more hiking after reaching the falls, you can continue another 4 miles to the summit of Mount LeConte.
Winter visitors should be aware that the area around the falls can become treacherous when icy. Always check trail conditions before setting out, especially in colder months.
Pigeon Forge and the surrounding Smoky Mountains offer year-round hiking opportunities, each season bringing its own unique charm and challenges.
Spring is an excellent time for hiking in Pigeon Forge. As the mountains awaken wildflowers, creating a colorful spectacle along many trails. Look for trilliums, spring beauties, and violets carpeting the forest floor. This season is ideal for waterfall hikes, as the melting snow and spring rains boost water flow. However, be prepared for occasional rain showers and muddy trails.
Wildlife becomes more active in spring. You might spot black bears emerging from their winter dens, or hear the distinctive call of wild turkeys. Remember to maintain a safe distance from any wildlife you encounter.
Summer brings lush greenery and warmer temperatures to the Smoky Mountains. It’s the perfect time for high-elevation hikes, where cooler temperatures and mountain breezes offer relief from the valley heat. Trails like Andrews Bald and Mount LeConte are particularly appealing during this season.
Summer also brings the synchronous firefly display in early June, a rare phenomenon where fireflies flash in unison. While this occurs in a specific area of the park, it’s a spectacular sight if you can time your visit right.
Be aware that afternoons can bring sudden thunderstorms, especially at higher elevations. Start your hikes early and be prepared to turn back if the weather turns.
Fall is arguably the most popular season for hiking in Pigeon Forge. The changing foliage transforms the mountains into a breathtaking canvas of reds, oranges, and golds. Peak fall colors typically occur in mid-October at higher elevations and late October to early November at lower elevations.
This season offers comfortable hiking temperatures and clearer skies, providing excellent visibility for long-range vistas. Trails with expansive views, like Mount Cammerer or Chimney Tops, are particularly rewarding during fall.
Wildlife is also active in autumn as animals prepare for winter. You might see elk during their mating season or spot black bears foraging for food before hibernation.
Winter brings a different kind of beauty to the Smoky Mountains. Snow-covered trails and icicle-adorned waterfalls create a serene, picturesque landscape. Some trails, like Alum Cave, transform into winter wonderlands.
However, winter hiking requires extra preparation. Many park roads may close due to ice and snow, limiting access to some trailheads. Always check current conditions before setting out. Proper winter gear, including traction devices for your boots, is essential for safety.
Despite the challenges, winter offers unique opportunities. The bare trees provide better visibility for spotting wildlife and enjoying mountain views. Plus, you’ll encounter fewer fellow hikers on the trails.
Pigeon Forge’s location near the Great Smoky Mountains National Park makes it an ideal base for exploring some of the best hiking trails in the eastern United States. These trails offer everything from diverse ecosystems and historical sites to challenging climbs and breathtaking vistas.
Remember to always hike responsibly. Carry plenty of water, wear appropriate footwear, and let someone know your hiking plans. Check the weather forecast and trail conditions before setting out, and be prepared to turn back if conditions deteriorate.
After your hiking adventures, relax and unwind at one of our comfortable and luxurious Pigeon Forge cabins. Smoky Mountain Holiday offers cozy accommodations and local expertise to enhance your Pigeon Forge experience!
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