Hiking Trails in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park
GSMNP is a Hikers Paradise with More Than 800 Miles of Hiking Trails
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park (GSMNP) covers 522,427 acres and is divided almost evenly between North Carolina and Tennessee. It is estimated that in 2022 there were 13 million visitors to the GSMNP making it the 2nd most visited national park just behind the Blue Ridge Parkway, and both of these are just minutes out the front door of Roamer’s Respite in Sylva, NC.
With over 800 miles of hiking trails you are sure find and adventure that you’ll remember for a lifetime. The closest access from Roamer’s Respite to the GSMNP is through Cherokee via Highway 441 known as Newfound Gap Rd. In this post we are going to explore a few of the hiking trails that you can access directly from Newfound Gap Rd. Download a PDF of the Great Smoky Mountains Trail Map.
New: Parking tags are required to park in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Three tag durations will be available for purchase for all vehicle sizes and types: Daily, $5; Weekly, $15; or Annual, $40. Parking tags may be purchased online, or on-site. Parking tags will NOT be required for motorists who pass through the area or who park for less than 15 minutes, or while parked at their designated campsite. Parking Info
Leave No Trace
If you are here reading this, then I am sure you too love to be outdoors exploring all that nature has to offer. No matter what activity you are enjoying outdoors, there is an inherent responsibility to protect our natural resources now and into the future. We hope that all outdoor enthusiasts will adopt responsible practices while taking in the enjoyment of nature.
Below are 7 Leave No Trace Principles
- Plan Ahead and Prepare
- Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces
- Dispose of Waste Properly
- Leave What You Find.
- Minimize Campfire Impacts.
- Respect Wildlife.
- Be Considerate of Other Visitors.
Learn More about Leave No Trace at any of the following links.
Mingus Mill and Mingus Creek Trails
Length: 5.9 Miles
Elevation Gain: 1,509 ft
Route Type: Out & Back
Time: 3hr 17Min
Dogs: Not Allowed
Difficulty: Moderate
The Mingus Creek Trail, starting from the parking area of the historic Mingus Mill, offers a captivating hiking experience. Before beginning the hike, make sure to visit the mill, built in 1886, which operates using a unique water-powered cast iron turbine. You can tour the mill and purchase cornmeal ground on-site from mid-March to mid-November.
Named after John Jacob Mingus, the first Euro-American settler in the Oconaluftee valley, the trail diverts water from Mingus Creek after a short distance. Along the first mile, which was built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s, you’ll pass through a pleasant new-growth forest with rhododendrons and various wildflowers.
The Mingus Creek Trail is part of the Mountains-to-Sea Trail, spanning about 1,150 miles from Clingmans Dome to Jockey’s Ridge on the North Carolina coast. After an easy mile, the trail becomes narrower and rockier. You’ll encounter footbridges, a fork leading to an old cemetery, and a creek crossing that may be challenging during heavy rain.
As the trail climbs higher, switchbacks take you to Deeplow Gap at 2.9 miles. While there are some views of the surrounding mountains before the trees leaf out in spring, they aren’t particularly noteworthy. At this point, you have the option to take the Deeplow Gap Trail down to Cooper Creek Trail or Thomas Divide Trail. Alternatively, you can continue on the Mingus Creek Trail towards Newton Bald, adding another 2.8 miles and 1460 feet of climbing to your hike.
The Mingus Creek Trail invites you to discover the historical mill, enjoy a diverse natural environment, and challenge yourself with rewarding climbs. Take in the scenic beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and create lasting memories along this captivating trail.
The 18 mile drive will only take you 26 minutes from Roamer’s Respite Vacation Home.
Smokemont Loop / Bradely Fork Trail
Length: 6.5 Miles
Elevation Gain: 1,441 ft
Route Type: Loop
Time: 3hr 10Min
Dogs: Not Allowed
Difficulty: Moderate
The Smokemont Loop Trail is a picturesque 6.5-mile circuit that winds through lush forests, beside babbling streams, and past breathtaking vistas. As you embark on this journey, be prepared to immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of nature, surrounded by towering trees and the harmonious melodies of chirping birds.
The trail begins at the Smokemont Campground, where you’ll find ample parking and facilities. From there, the path leads you on a captivating expedition, gradually ascending through the dense woodland. Along the way, you’ll encounter an array of wildflowers, adding vibrant colors to the verdant landscape.
One of the highlights of this trail is the opportunity to witness an abundance of wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for deer gracefully grazing in meadows or squirrels playfully darting through the branches above. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of a black bear or a majestic elk, adding an extra touch of excitement to your adventure.
As you reach the latter part of the loop, the trail begins its descent, leading you back to the starting point. The journey may be coming to an end, but the memories and awe-inspiring experiences will stay with you long after you leave.
The 21 mile drive will only take you 34 minutes from Roamer’s Respite Vacation Home.
Clingmans Dome Observation Trail
Length: 1.3 Miles
Elevation Gain: 337 ft
Route Type: Out & Back
Time: 1 hr
Dogs: Not Allowed
Difficulty: Moderate
The Great Smoky Mountains are home to an array of natural wonders, and one of the most captivating destinations within this majestic range is Clingmans Dome. This iconic peak offers breathtaking panoramic views, unique hiking experiences, and the opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty of nature.
Clingmans Dome, located in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, straddles the border between Tennessee and North Carolina. It is the highest point in the Smokies, standing tall at an elevation of 6,643 feet (2,025 meters). The dome itself is a remarkable geological formation, shaped by millions of years of natural forces.
The Clingmans Dome Trail is a paved pathway that spans approximately 0.5 miles (0.8 kilometers) from the parking area to the observation tower.
The highlight of visiting Clingmans Dome is undoubtedly the observation tower. As you ascend the spiral ramp, anticipation builds, and once at the top, the breathtaking vistas make it all worthwhile. The panoramic views allow you
The 40 mile drive will only take you 1 hour from Roamer’s Respite Vacation Home.
Clingmans Dome to Andrews Bald
Length: 3.6 Miles
Elevation Gain: 875 ft
Route Type: Out & Back
Time: 2 hr
Dogs: Not Allowed
Difficulty: Moderate
The Forney Ridge Trail offers a thrilling trek that covers 1.8 miles of the 5.6-mile trail, leading you from the Clingman’s Dome parking lot to the awe-inspiring Andrew’s Bald. With breathtaking views of the Great Smoky Mountains and the opportunity to witness the beauty of bald mountaintops, this hike promises an exhilarating experience for nature enthusiasts of all levels.
As you arrive at the end of Clingman’s Dome Road, you’ll find the Forney Ridge Trailhead nestled at the final stretch of the parking lot. Begin your adventure by setting foot on this scenic path that leads you through a vibrant woodland. For the first mile, the trail gently descends, offering a serene journey surrounded by the natural wonders of the park. However, be prepared for sections of the trail that are strewn with rocks, adding an element of challenge to your hike.
Upon reaching Andrew’s Bald, prepare to be mesmerized by the panoramic vistas that unfold before your eyes. Behold the splendor of the southern half of the park, with its sprawling beauty extending as far as the eye can see. From this vantage point, you’ll be treated to awe-inspiring views of the Great Smoky Mountains and the glistening Fontana Lake. Take a moment to soak in the tranquility and grandeur of nature.
After immersing yourself in the beauty of Andrew’s Bald, you have a choice to make for your return journey. You can retrace your steps and head back to Clingman’s Dome, completing a 3.6-mile hike in total. This option offers a chance to revisit the stunning landscapes you encountered earlier in the day.
Alternatively, if you’re up for a more adventurous and physically demanding challenge, you can continue your hike down the Forney Ridge Trail. The trail stretches nearly four more miles along the ridge, providing a steep and invigorating return trip. Be prepared for the rugged terrain and the test it presents to your hiking prowess.
The 40 mile drive will only take you 1 hour from Roamer’s Respite Vacation Home.
Other Notable Hiking Trails in the GSMNP
Deep Creek Loop
This route includes both the Deep Creek Trail and the Indian Creek Trails. It is a 4 mile, easy to moderate journey. A very highly rated trail by many hikers, you will some great waterfalls and have a great time on this trail.
Deep Creek Trail
If you have a vision of one of the best hikes in the Smokies then this would be it. If you like streams, wildflowers, birds chirping and a longer hike this is definitely it. I wouldn’t recommend this if heavy rain is expected as it can become quite wet and the creek crossings can be tricky.
Noland Divide Trail to Lonesome Pine Overlook
The 6.7-mile hike round trip offers breathtaking views despite its challenging nature. The trail begins at the horse trailer parking area across from the Deep Creek campground, just inside the Deep Creek park entrance. The initial three-mile stretch involves a significant elevation gain of 2300 feet. Upon reaching the pinnacle of Beauregard Ridge, the trail transforms into a narrow razorback path, treating hikers to panoramic vistas of Bryson City, the Tuckasegee Valley, and the majestic Nantahala Mountains in the distance.
The Great Smoky Mountains: Your hiking paradise
Within the vast expanse of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, an extensive network of over 800 miles of trails awaits, presenting a plethora of opportunities for exploration. Amidst this natural splendor lies the promise of an unforgettable experience—an indelible hike, a transformative moment that weaves itself into the tapestry of your memories. The resplendent beauty of the surrounding landscape is a precious gift, a testament to the intricate marvels of the natural world. As you venture into the untamed wilderness, I implore you to embrace the profound depth of these encounters, allowing them to permeate your very essence, leaving an enduring imprint on the very fabric of your soul.
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