13 Jun Family Hiking Fun in the Great Smoky Mountains: 5 Perfect Hikes
Are you looking for a family-friendly, high-energy outdoor activity like family hiking? The Great Smoky Mountains are your best option! It is the ideal location to explore with your loved ones because of its breathtaking natural beauty, unique animals, and vast variety of trails.
There is something for everyone in the Smokies, from leisurely strolls through level ground to more difficult walks up steep inclines. Here are five of our top family hiking trails for families that will make your Smoky Mountain trip unforgettable.
1. Cove Mountain Trail to Cataract Falls
This hidden gem of a trail is a well-kept secret of the Great Smoky Mountains. The walk is about three quarters of a mile long, yet along the way it provides breathtaking views of Cataract Falls and Cove Mountain. A family hiking takes about 20 to 30 minutes each way and the trail is ideal for people of all ages and skill levels.
2. Porters Creek Trail
The Porters Creek Trail is just one of the many trails in Great Smoky Mountains National Park that are suitable for families. You travel the 2-mile round trip through verdant forests and through important historical landmarks. You’ll be treated to lovely springtime wildflowers and breathtaking fall scenery along the way. Even though it’s a moderate hike, kids will love it.
3. Laurel Falls Trail
One of the best routes in Great Smoky Mountains National Park for family hikes, according to users of AllTrails.com. A short 2-mile roundtrip trek will take you to an 80-foot waterfall with a viewing platform at the bottom that’s great for snapping pictures.
4. Deep Creek Loop
A 5.4-mile adventure through the forest and along riverfront bluffs with spectacular vistas of waterfalls, wildflowers, and wildlife awaits your family on the Deep Creek Loop. Even though it’s classified as a moderate hike, adventurous youngsters can still go on it!
5. Cades Cove Loop Road
An 11-mile paved loop known as Cades Cove Loop Road provides some of Smoky Mountain National Park’s most beautiful views as well as several opportunities to see local animals like deer, turkeys, bears, and more! While most families choose to drive this route, if you’re feeling particularly daring, you can also choose to travel it on foot or by bicycle. The loop road is closed for a few hours one day each week so that bicycles have full reign. You can also stop and do a short family hike at several stops along the route.
Regardless of the trail you pick, we promise that your family will have a blast taking advantage of everything the Great Smoky Mountains National Park has to offer in terms of nature! So why are you still waiting? Grab your luggage and get outside for some fun!
We have two charming Gatlinburg cabins available for your unforgettable adventure in America’s most visited national park. Nestled amid lush forests and surrounded by breathtaking mountain vistas, these cozy retreats provide the perfect base for you to explore the park’s countless wonders. Each cabin boasts modern amenities and comfortable furnishings, ensuring a relaxing stay after a day of hiking, wildlife spotting, or simply taking in the awe-inspiring scenery. Don’t miss this chance to immerse yourself in the enchanting beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains and create memories that will last a lifetime. Book your cabin now and embark on the ultimate nature getaway!
Sources:
https://blueridgemountainlife.com/best-family-hikes/
https://www.pigeonforgechamber.com/5-smoky-mountain-hikes-perfect-families/
https://www.alltrails.com/parks/us/tennessee/great-smoky-mountains-national-park/kids