The Great Smoky Mountains are a worldwide vacation destination because of their unbelievable beauty and their incredible hiking opportunities. There are hundreds of trails to choose from when planning a hiking trip, including plenty of trails that are fun and easy for your whole family, kiddos included. Check out our list of 5 Smoky Mountain day hikes that your whole family will enjoy, and start planning for your next hiking adventure today!
1. Andrews Bald
The first trail on our list of Smoky Mountain day hikes is Andrews Bald. The whole hike only totals 3.5 miles round trip, but the miles are packed with unbelievable views from beginning to end. At over 6,000 feet, you’ll experience 360 degree views of the Smokies that are beautiful in every season. There are lots of great places for a picnic on this hike, so bring along some of your family’s favorite snacks!
2. Laurel Falls
One of the most popular destinations in the whole Smoky Mountain National Park, Laurel Falls, is an easy 2 mile hike with incredible views of a beautiful 80 foot waterfall.This beautiful hike gets its name from the mountain laurel that grows along the trail. Don’t forget to bring your camera because you’ll want to capture these views forever.
3. Baskins Creek Falls
At 3 miles round trip, Baskins Creek Falls is one of the easier trails on our list of Smoky Mountain day hikes. During this couple hour hike, you’ll see a beautiful 40 foot waterfall, as well as several great views of Gatlinburg TN down below. When you reach the waterfall, there are a couple perfect picnic spots where you and your family can refuel and prepare for the hike back!
4. Porters Creek
Hiking Porters Creek is a wonderful way to enjoy a walk while also learning a little about the history of the area. The Porters Creek trail is full of old remnants of the original settlers, including old structures, staircases and a very old cemetery. You and your kids will get a small glimpse at what life was like in the Smokies before the national park was established. This 2 mile hike is short, entertaining and educational!
5. Grotto Falls
You’ll want to plan 2 or 3 hours to fully enjoy the hike to and from Grotto Falls, which will include a few minutes to hang out and enjoy the 25 foot waterfall. The best time to hike this trail is summer because you’ll get to see all sorts of active critters like salamanders and other animals that enjoy the moist environment around the falls!
During your time enjoying the Smoky Mountain day hikes, you’ll love knowing that you have a comfortable and cozy place to rest every evening, and our Smoky Mountain cabins are the perfect place to call home during your vacation! Our cabins are affordable, conveniently located near the best hiking trails and are fully equipped with all the amenities you’ll want during your mountain retreat!