Did you know you can go hiking in downtown Gatlinburg? There are so many incredible hiking trails around Gatlinburg that make it easy for families to add a short hike to their day in the Smokies! From unique historic sites to waterfalls and scenic views, you’ll love exploring these trails, all within easy access to Gatlinburg hotels, attractions, and restaurants!
1. Gatlinburg Trail
The Gatlinburg Trail is great for anyone who wants a short but scenic low-impact hike. The route is 3.8 miles with little elevation gain, and it’s also great for biking! Start your adventure from one of two trailheads, near the Sugarlands Visitor Center or off River Road in downtown Gatlinburg. Hikers will follow the West Prong of the Little Pigeon River. Stop on the footbridge to breathe in the fresh air and get a good look at the water! Look out for remnants of chimneys from old homesteads along the path. They are proof of the settlers’ hard work.
Insider Tip: The Gatlinburg Trail is the only pet-friendly hike on the Tennessee side of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, so you can bring Fido! Just make sure you keep them on a leash that is no more than 6 feet long!
2. Twin Creeks Trail
If you want a hike that is a little longer, take the Twin Creeks Trail. The hike is close to downtown Gatlinburg, and it follows 4.5 miles through a scenic forest. Listen to the rush of the water as you wander along the creek. In addition to pretty nature views, the Twin Creeks Trail also has some cool historical structures. One of them is the Noah “Bud” Ogle Cabin. It is located on the southern end of the trail. The cabin was built by its namesake in the 1880s and features a unique saddle-bag design. The layout is two buildings connected by a chimney.
Hidden Gem Alert: If you go down a side trail near the Natural Resources Center, you’ll find the House of Fairies. The structure was originally a stone springhouse that was part of the Voorheis Estate.
3. Rainbow Falls Trail
Another one of the hiking trails around Gatlinburg is the Rainbow Falls Trail. It is 5.4 miles roundtrip with 624 feet of elevation gain. The first part of the trail is a boulder field, so sturdy shoes are a must to keep your balance. The rest of the path to the trail’s namesake is an uphill climb, so make sure to pace yourself. Rainbow Falls is 80 feet tall, which makes it the tallest single-drop waterfall in the Smokies! The waterfall gets its name from the sun and mist creating little rainbows along the water.
4. Trails at Gatlinburg SkyPark
While you’re in downtown Gatlinburg, you can still enjoy the scenery. One way to do so is the hiking trails at Gatlinburg SkyPark. Visitors will take a ride on the SkyLift to reach this attraction. The hiking trails begin at Clayton’s Landing and are 1.5 miles long; plus, you can bring your dog! You will love the panoramic mountain views, and you may even have the opportunity to see some wildlife. After your hike, stick around for a delicious meal at Smoky Mountain Smash!
More Hiking Trails Around Gatlinburg TN
We hope you enjoyed learning about these hiking trails around Gatlinburg. We have another trail recommendation with a unique history for you, check out the Old Sugarlands Trail!
