Proper planning is the key to both a safe and fun hike in the Smoky Mountains. You may have questions about the park if you’ve never been here. You could also be an avid hiker who wants to be better prepared. Whatever the case may be, we have the answers. Simply keep reading to find out! Here is a list of 4 questions to ask before going hiking in the Smoky Mountains:
1. Do I Need A Parking Tag?
If you're going to be out on the trails for longer than 15 minutes and leave your vehicle parked, you will need a Smoky Mountain parking pass. There are daily and weekly options available for purchase at the visitor centers or on automated kiosks throughout the park. You can even buy an annual pass if you are a frequent visitor. If you purchase a daily or weekly pass online, be sure to print it out before you leave. Digital proof of purchase is not accepted. Keep in mind that the purchase of a parking tag does not guarantee a parking spot. Get to the trailhead early to have the best chance of getting a good spot.
2. What Do I Need to Bring?
- Proper footwear: Helps you maintain your balance
- Light jacket: A jacket is not just for the fall and winter. It can be cooler in higher elevations during the summertime.
- Hat/Sunglasses: Keep the sun out of your eyes.
- Water and Snacks: Stay energized during your hike. Make sure you put uneaten food away to avoid attracting wildlife.
- Trail Maps: They are available at the visitor centers. We also provide free downloadable hiking maps!
- Camera: Take memorable pictures in the stunning natural scenery.
3. Is it Safe to Hike Alone?
You can hike alone in the Great Smoky Mountains. We recommend that you only do so if you are on a route that you are very familiar with. If you’re going on an unfamiliar trail, you should go with a group. You will help people to help out should you lose your way. No matter how experienced a hiker you are, never hike at night. The temperatures drop, and it is harder to see the trail markers and wildlife. If you’re going on a longer hike, begin the trek early to avoid being in the dark.
4. What Are The Top Trails Based on Difficulty?
Choosing the “right” trail depends on how much experience you have. Here are the top trails in the Smokies based on difficulty:
- Easy: The Gatlinburg Trail is a great beginner trail. It is a flat and paved trail that is 3.9 miles roundtrip. Walk across the Little Pigeon River on the longest footbridge in the park. An even shorter path behind the Sugarlands Visitor Center, the Cove Mountain Trail is only a half-mile to Cataract Falls!
- Moderate: The Abrams Falls Trail is 5.4 miles roundtrip. Go through a lush pine oak forest located in Cades Cove to Abrams Falls. This is a voluminous 20-foot waterfall!
- Challenging: Mount Cammerer (via the Low Gap Trail) is 11.1 miles roundtrip with over 3,000 feet of elevation gain. It leads to a fire tower that offers stunning panoramic views.
Now you know the answers to some important questions about hiking in the Smoky Mountains. Need more trail recommendations? We can help with that too. Here is a list of the most popular hiking trails in the Smoky Mountains.
