Smoky Mountain hikes with views are abundant in the national park. Some aren’t too difficult to reach; others are not for the faint of heart. Hikes with views ranging from mountain ranges to wildflowers and more are part of the 150+ trails in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Which hike will you attempt?
Alum Cave Trail
This popular trail will take you to Mt. LeConte. Along the way to the top you’ll follow the stream for around a mile. The first landmark you’ll come across is the Arch Rock, a black slate formation that arches over your path. The real attraction is Alum Cave Bluff, a massive overhang that was mined during the Civil War. At this landmark, you’ll witness incredible mountain views.
Alum Cave Trail
Andrews Bald Trail
If distant views of mountain ridges are what you seek, Andrews Bald Trail leads to the highest bald in the park (5,860 feet in elevation), which is perfect for stretching out in the grass to enjoy, not only views of Fontana Lake and azaleas in the spring, but also panoramic views of the park’s amazing fall coloration in autumn months.
Andrews Bald
Mount Sterling
If you’re up for a challenge (seriously though) and you’re not afraid of heights, dare yourself to hike up Baxter Creek Trail, one of the steepest trails in the Smokies, to the magnificent Mount Sterling. The old firetower at the summit delivers 360 degree views of the rest of the national park – but only if you’re willing to climb 6 stories to the top.
Baxter Creek Trail
Charlies Bunion via the AT
This 8 mile roundtrip hike is rated moderate. Following the Appalachian Trail, this hike travels to rock crags along the state-line ridge, the main crest of the Smoky Mountains. By taking the AT trailhead in the corner of the Newfound Gap parking area, this segment will lead you to a rock outcropping, Charlie’s Bunion, which provides wonderful views of the Tennessee side of the mountains.
Charlies Bunion
Chimney Tops Trail
Located about 7 miles past the Sugarlands Visitor Center on Newfound Gap Road, this 4 mile round trip hike is a very popular attraction in the Smokies. In 2 miles, hikers climb 1,650 feet! Two rock spires, 4,755 feet in elevation, await those who manage the strenuous path to the top. A spectacular 360-degree view awaits those who complete this climb.
Chimney Tops
Kuwohi
At 6,643 feet, Kuwohi is Great Smoky Mountains National Park’s highest point. It is the highest point in Tennessee. Kuwohi is a popular Park destination. Located along the state-line ridge, it is half in North Carolina and half in Tennessee. The peak is accessible after driving Kuwohi Road from Newfound Gap, and then walking a steep half-mile trail.
Kuwohi
Low Gap to Mt. Cammerer
The Low Gap trailhead is located at the Cosby access in the campground just before the B100 campsite. This trail provides a shorter route to the Mt. Cammerer fire tower and forms a loop hike with the Appalachian Trail and the Lower Mt. Cammerer Trail. There’s plenty to see along the way, but the mountaintop destination has the best view.
Mt. Cammerer
Sugarland Mountain Trail
This trail is 12.3 miles one way and is rated moderate with an elevation gain of 3,500 feet. The trailhead is located off Little River Road at the Laurel Falls parking area. This trail connects Little River Road with the crest of the Smokies, passing a good view of Mt. LeConte. The trail first climbs through a pine-hemlock woods and then turns right into a hardwood forest. You’ll climb steeply and cross the upper reaches of a ravine and a small stream.
Bullhead Trail
This strenuous trail to Mount LeConte ascends through the debris of the 2016 Gatlinburg fires. You’ll find outstanding views as you continue your ascent, and the opportunity to stand on The Pulpit (built by the CCC for no real reason) for even better views of the nearby mountains. This is one of the 6 trails leading to LeConte Lodge, where you’ll find exceptional views as well.
Bullhead Trail
