Hiking in the Smokies can be a thrilling experience for anyone. For those who want to hike while in the area but have little experience, some of the park’s most beautiful beginner-friendly trails are low elevation and short to allow for anyone to enjoy and explore. Here are a few of the most popular easy hiking trails in Great Smoky Mountains National Park:
1. Metcalf Bottoms Trail
Distance: 0.7 miles
Trail Access: Park at the Wear Gap Road parking area near Little Greenbrier Road. At the Metcalf Bottoms Picnic Area, cross the bridge to begin the hike.
This level trail is only 0.7 miles by itself, but can be made longer by continuing from Metcalf Bottoms to Little Brier Gap Trail. Just minutes into the walk, hikers will see a small log school house. Anyone can explore inside, where the school still has original elements, including desks. The Metcalf Bottoms Trail is definitely one of the best easy hiking trails in Great Smoky Mounains National Park!
2. Sugarlands Valley Nature Trail
Distance: 0.5 mile loop
Trailhead Access: Two miles south of Gatlinburg, the trail begins at the Sugarlands Visitor Center.
The Sugarlands Valley Nature Trail is a 0.5 mile loop in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park just behind one of the most popular visitor centers in the area. This paved, flat trail is wheelchair and stroller accessible, so anyone can enjoy the sights and sounds of nature. It's easily one of the top Smoky Mountain hiking trails for kids! Before taking a stroll on the trail, hikers can watch a short film about the park and view natural history exhibits. The Sugarlands Visitor Center also conducts ranger led programs seasonally, so visitors can check the center for times and dates.
3. Andrews Bald
Distance: 1.7 miles
Trailhead Access: From the Kuwohi parking area, hikers will find the trailhead near the informational bulletin board
This trail is less than 4 miles roundtrip with a maximum elevation of 900 feet. Though the Andrews Bald Trail includes rocks and small boulders, it's a relatively easy trek to the final overlook. There are several acres of grassy meadow at the top, where trails in the Smokies get the “Bald” name. These meadows are wide open, giving hikers plenty of space to picnic or lay down a blanket and relax.
4. Porters Creek Trail
Distance: 2 miles
Trailhead Access: Located in the Greenbrier area, follow Highway 321 six miles east of Gatlinburg. Three miles into a gravel road, you’ll find the trail’s parking lot.
Hikers who want history and beauty in an easy hike will love the Porters Creek Trail. Totaling at 4 miles roundtrip, this trail is one of the best places to see wildflowers in spring. Nearly a mile into the hike sits remnants of a farmstead, including cabins and barns that are still standing. Further in is Fern Branch Falls, a nearly 40-foot waterfall.
Now you know some of the easy hiking trails in Great Smoky Mountains National Park for beginners! Want more suggestions for great hikes? Check out this list of the best trails near Gatlinburg to explore!
