Great Smoky Mountains National Park: 8 TOP Easy Hikes

National Parks Mom

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most popular of all 63 national parks in the United States, as well as the world! 12,937,633 people visited Great Smoky Mountains NP in 2022 alone with the second most visited park having 8 million less visitors!

The Great Smoky Mountains is the most visited national park by a landslide! Straddling the border of Tennessee and North Carolina, the park is accessible from either state, however park headquarters are in Tennessee.

Gatlinburg Trail

Beginning by the Sugarlands Visitor Center, this beautiful, accessible nature path allows you to get a little bit of exercise and see some sights. All skill levels can enjoy this walk as you can walk or bike this trail.

01.

Oconaluftee River Trail

This is the only other walking trail in the Smokies that allows leashed dogs to join you and is basically North Carolina’s equivalent of the Gatlinburg Trail.

02.

Cataract Falls Trail

This hidden gem is a perfect hike for your littlest kiddos that still love to explore, or any adults who can’t (or don’t want to) do anything too difficult. Carry your babies in a pack and let your toddlers stretch their legs on this stunning nature walk.

03.

Little River Trail

NPS Park Ranger Orin was quick to recommend this as a great hike for families. He said “Little River is a pretty river and the trail flanks the river most of the way.

04.

Porters Creek Trail

This 4 mile round trip hike offers a good balance of difficulty. The first mile is gravel and basically flat, while the second mile is a narrower hiking trail with a gradual ascent! This will still be doable for most kids who can walk for two hours or so.

05.

Kephart Prong Trail

If you enter the park through the entrance in Cherokee, NC this trail is close and convenient for you. This trail is perfect for those who love history and adding exploration to their hikes.

06.

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