Trails of the Smokies Blog

Hiking guides, trail stories, and tips for exploring Great Smoky Mountains National Park

unsplash image k5ie4n8oxy0.webp

Your Complete Guide to Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited national park in America — and it’s not even close. More than 12 million people make the trip each year, drawn by ancient mountains, cascading waterfalls, black bears, and over 800 miles of hiking trails. But here’s what most visitors don’t realize: the Smokies reward the […]

Your Complete Guide to Great Smoky Mountains National Park Read More »

Trail Guides

Explore some of the best hiking trails in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Each trail guide includes distance, elevation gain, maps, and helpful tips so you can plan your hike with confidence. Alum Cave Trail Charlies Bunion Laurel Falls

Trail Guides Read More »

Alum Cave Trail

Alum Cave Trail is one of the most popular hikes in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The trail climbs steadily along Alum Cave Creek through old-growth forest and dramatic rock formations. Highlights include Arch Rock, Inspiration Point, and the massive Alum Cave bluff. Trail Details Distance: 5 miles roundtripDifficulty: ModerateElevation Gain: 1,200 ftTrailhead: Newfound Gap

Alum Cave Trail Read More »