Are you looking for some hiking recommendations on the Tennessee side of the Smokies? If so, head to the Greenbrier area during your next visit! Let us give you some of our favorites to help you narrow down which hike to take. Here are four great hiking trails in the Greenbrier area of the Smoky Mountains:
1. Porters Creek Trail
Porters Creek Trail is an easy 4-mile roundtrip route. The terrain switches from a gravel path to a flat dirt road. First, you’ll see stone walls from an old farmstead, a historic cemetery where some settlers are buried, and a cantilever barn. The trail also leads you to Fern Branch Falls, a 40-foot waterfall that tumbles down large slabs of rock. Look down into the pool below and admire all the fish!
Before you leave, snap a picture of your hiking group with Fern Branch Falls in the background. You can turn around or continue to Backcountry Campsite #31. You’ll have the opportunity to spend the night under the stars during the warmer months. Note that you’ll need a reservation and backcountry camping permit!
2. Ramsey Cascades Trail
Ramsey Cascades is another waterfall in the Greenbrier area of the Smoky Mountains. The Ramsey Cascades Trail is considered strenuous at 8 miles roundtrip with over 2,000 feet of elevation gain. Stop along the way to enjoy the calming sound of rushing water. Use caution on the rock portions of the trail. You will be rewarded with the sight of Ramsey Cascades. The water drops 100 feet over the rocks. It is no surprise that this is the tallest waterfall in the national park.
See how many camouflaged salamanders you can spot in the pool below. Make sure to follow the Leave No Trace guidelines and refrain from picking up these small creatures !
3. Brushy Mountain Trail
The Brushy Mountain Trail is a total of 11.7 miles roundtrip with an estimated 3,000 feet of elevation gain. Make sure to begin this longer hike early to avoid running out of daylight. Look out for stone walls and other remnants of old farmsteads. If you come in the warmer months, admire the vibrant yellow trillium that blooms along the path.
Before reaching Brushy Mountain, you can see views from Trillium Gap. This is a high-elevation area between Brushy Mountain and Mount LeConte. Continue on to reach the trail’s namesake. The name is fitting due to the thick vegetation that grows here. See mountain laurel, rhododendron, and more. Take a well-deserved rest before heading back.
4. Old Settlers Trail
The Old Settlers Trail is over 15 miles long, which is best done in smaller sections, unless you’re up for a long day hike or backpacking trip! The difficulty level ranges from moderate to strenuous. Visitors should look out for some fascinating historical remnants. These include stone chimneys and other pieces of homesteads. A notable structure is the Tyson McCarter Place. You’ll come across cemeteries as well.
As for scenery, you’ll walk through a forest with lots of tall trees. There are some stream crossings on the trail that don’t have footbridges. If you choose to go over them, wear waterproof shoes to help maintain your balance.
Explore More of the Smokies
Now you know of some great hiking trails in the Greenbrier area of the Smoky Mountains. The Tennessee side of the park has lots more places to explore! Browse this guide to the Elkmont section!
