Hiking

🥾 Hiking the Smoky Mountains

Staying on Ski Mountain puts you just minutes from some of the most beautiful trails in the Southeast. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers everything from peaceful riverside walks to unforgettable summit hikes.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-Friendly & Easy Trails

Perfect for relaxed outings, kids, or anyone wanting beautiful views without a strenuous hike.

🌊 Gatlinburg Trail

• Flat, wide trail along the river

• One of the only dog-friendly trails

• Great for strollers and easy walks

💧 Laurel Falls Trail

• Paved path to a stunning waterfall

• One of the most popular hikes in the park

• Go early for a quieter experience

🌿 Sugarlands Valley Nature Trail

• Fully accessible, paved loop

• Easy, peaceful, and educational

• Great for all ages

🌄 Kuwohi (formerly Clingmans Dome) (Short Walk)

• Short paved walk to an observation tower

• Incredible panoramic views

• A must-see with minimal effort

🌄 Moderate & Scenic (Great Balance)

A step up in effort, but still very doable for most guests.

🪨 Alum Cave Trail

• Unique rock formations and sweeping views

• One of the most memorable hikes in the Smokies

• Turn around at Alum Cave for a shorter option

🌈 Rainbow Falls Trail

• Leads to one of the park’s tallest waterfalls

• Best after rainfall for stronger flow

• Steady incline but worth it

🌲 Grotto Falls Trail

• Walk behind the waterfall (rare and fun experience)

• Shaded and great in warmer months

• Family-friendly feel but slightly more effort

🏔️ Adventurous Hikers (Bucket-List Experiences)

For guests wanting a challenge and unforgettable views.

⛰️ Mount LeConte (Full Hike)

• One of the most iconic hikes in the Smokies

• Multiple trail options (Alum Cave is most popular)

• Plan for a full day

🔥 Chimney Tops Trail

• Short but steep and intense

• Big payoff with dramatic views

• Not recommended for beginners

🌄 Charlies Bunion

• Located along the Appalachian Trail

• Incredible high-elevation views

• Longer hike, but very rewarding

🌲 Abrams Falls Trail

• Moderate hike to a powerful waterfall

• Located in scenic Cades Cove

• Great combination of hike + drive

🌅 Best Times to Go

• Early Morning: Fewer մարդիկ and cooler temps

• Late Afternoon: Beautiful lighting for photos

• After Rain: Waterfalls are at their best

🐻 Wildlife & Safety

You are hiking in a true mountain wilderness:

• Stay on marked trails

• Bring water and wear proper shoes

• Do not approach wildlife

• Be aware of bears in the area

• Let someone know your plans for longer hikes

🚗 Getting There from Ski Mountain

• Most trailheads are 10–30 minutes away

• Traffic into Gatlinburg can be heavy—plan early departures

• Popular trails fill up quickly (especially Laurel Falls)

🤍 Our Recommendation

If you only have time for a few:

👉 Laurel Falls – easy and iconic
👉 Grotto Falls – unique waterfall experience
👉 Alum Cave Trail – best overall hike