Do you love hiking, or do you need a little more convincing to give it a try? There are many benefits of hiking in the Smoky Mountains that you should know about! Even if you can’t walk very far, are visiting with young children, or are just a beginner, hiking in the Smokies is a great activity that you can do to improve your health. Keep reading to learn more:
1. Hiking Can Improve Your Physical Health
Hiking is an excellent form of exercise. You don’t need to do a strenuous climb to the top of Mount LeConte for an effective workout. A low-impact walk on an easy, flat trail, such as the Gatlinburg Trail or Fighting Creek Nature Trail (both accessible from the Sugarlands Visitor Center) is perfect.
A hike also has the added benefit of sunlight and fresh air. The sun gives us Vitamin D, which is essential for many functions of the body, like calcium absorption for strong bones and immune support. Walking itself strengthens your muscles, helping you move faster and more freely; it’s a key factor in preventing falls, injuries, etc., as you get older.
2. Hiking Can Improve Your Mental Health
Along with improving important physical functions, hiking can benefit your mental health. The sunlight, fresh air, and exercise that hiking in the Smoky Mountains provides can reduce cortisol, the stress hormone. Feel less anxious and have a clearer mind as you wander through the gorgeous natural scenery. Time in the Smokies can allow you to temporarily unplug and let go of responsibilities for a little bit. Bring some headphones and download a playlist of your favorite songs. Even better? bask in the peace and quiet of nature. Listen for the occasional chirp of a bird, rustle of leaves, and the flowing water of a stream or waterfall!
3. Hiking is a Great Social Activity
Hiking in the Smokies is one of the best group activities in the national park! Your friends or loved ones can enjoy the beautiful sights all together; as you wander along, make conversation about the scenery or the memories made on your trip. All the laughs can boost your mood! While the hike will reduce cortisol levels, laughing and good conversations can increase the feel-good endorphins and further reduce stress. Plus, hiking in groups adds an element of safety; read more of our hiking safety tips to help you prepare!
Another social aspect to hiking the trails in GSMNP is exploring with your pet; dogs are a man’s best friend after all! There are two Smoky Mountain trails that allow dogs, one on the TN side and one on the NC side. Both are easy hikes that anyone can do; you can even ride your bikes along these trails!
Choose a Hiking Trail in the Smoky Mountains
Now that you know how hiking in the Smoky Mountains is good for your health, it is time to choose a trail. Here is a list of less crowded hikes in the Smokies!
