When it comes to magnificent pictures, you will not find a better backdrop than the Smoky Mountains. It is the perfect place to take family photos for any occasion. There are also some great family hikes in the area you can take that will give you some even better pictures. Here are 4 of the best hikes in the Smoky Mountains that are perfect for family photos:
1. Clingmans Dome
There is not a better view in the Smokies than the one you can see from Clingmans Dome . One reason for this is because of the elevation. At 6,643 feet, Clingmans Dome is the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, as well as the highest in all of Tennessee. If you want the perfect photo opportunity for your family, take the short 0.5 mile hike to the observation tower from the parking lot. While you are standing on the observation deck, you can see up to 100 miles into the distance on clear days. This is a highly visited landmark in the Smokies, so chances are there will be someone there who can take a picture of your family with the Smoky Mountains in the background!
2. Abrams Falls
Imagine the beautiful portrait you can get of your family standing in front of a 20-foot high waterfall. Although it’s not the biggest waterfall in the world, Abrams Falls makes up for it with the high volume of water that it releases. Plus, there is a large pool at the base of the waterfall that makes for some great pictures. Another good thing about this trail is that it isn’t super long. In total, the hike to the falls is only 5.2 miles roundtrip. This makes it easy for the whole family to hike it together. If you are looking for the perfect backdrop for your next Christmas card, you can’t go wrong with a trip to Abrams Falls.
3. Alum Bluff Cave Trail
One of the best hikes in the Smoky Mountains to get some amazing pictures of your family is the Alum Bluff Cave Trail . Your kids will also love exploring the cave while you are there! To get to this magnificent landmark, you can park at one of the two parking lots on the trailhead. They can be assessed by traveling just over 8 miles on Newfound Gap Road. From there, the roundtrip hike to the Alum Cave Bluffs is right at 5 miles. You can also continue on this trail and reach just below the summit of Mount LeConte!
4. Gatlinburg Trail
If you want a way for your dog to be included in your photos, no worries. On the Gatlinburg Trail , you can bring your four-legged friend along on the adventure. It is one of only two walking paths in the Smokies where you can bring your pet. Another good thing about this trail is that it is short and flat. The 1.9 mile paved trail is perfect for those with young children who cannot walk long distances. At one point along the path, you will come to a pedestrian bridge that crosses over the Pigeon River. This is the perfect place to stop and get a beautiful picture of your family having fun in the Smokies!
Now that you know the best hikes in the Smoky Mountains for family photos, be sure to check out this map to see all the other trails that are available for you to explore. We hope to see you soon out on the hiking trails!
