The best walks and hikes in Sevier County

The Alum Cave Trail offers a captivating journey through the Great Smoky Mountains, showcasing diverse scenery from old-growth forests to unique geological formations. You'll traverse log bridges over Alum Cave Creek, pass directly through the impressive Arch Rock, and be rewarded with panoramic mountain views from Inspiration Point. The trail culminates at the massive Alum Cave Bluffs, a concave, overhanging sandstone bluff that provides a natural shelter and a popular resting spot.

This popular route is a moderate hike covering 4.6 miles (7.4 km) with 1064 feet (324 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking about 2 hours and 24 minutes. Given its popularity, especially during peak season and on weekends, plan to arrive early to secure parking at the trailhead. The trail can be rocky and uneven, with some narrow sections featuring cable assistance, so wear appropriate footwear and be prepared for varied terrain.

Alum Cave Trail is renowned for its blend of natural beauty and historical significance; the bluffs were once mined for saltpeter during the Civil War. It's also the shortest, though steepest, of the five trails leading to Mount LeConte, making it a common choice for those aiming for the summit. The trail's consistent engagement with landmarks and diverse features makes it one of the most notable hikes in the park.

The Alum Cave Trail offers a classic Great Smoky Mountains experience, winding through ancient forests and past unique geological formations on its way to Mount LeConte. You'll traverse log bridges over streams, pass through the natural arch of Arch Rock, and be treated to panoramic vistas from Inspiration Point. The journey culminates at the impressive Alum Cave Bluffs, a massive rock overhang, before continuing to the summit of Mount LeConte, making it a challenging 11.8-mile (19.0 km) hike with 2929 feet (893 metres) of elevation gain.

Given its popularity, especially for those seeking viewpoints on Alum Cave Trail, you'll want to arrive at the trailhead early to secure parking. The trail can be quite rugged, with rocky sections and cable handrails in places, and it's essential to be prepared for changing conditions. During winter, expect icy patches, so appropriate gear like microspikes is a must for Alum Cave Trail winter conditions; otherwise, spring and fall offer pleasant hiking weather.

This difficult route, typically taking around 6 hours and 16 minutes, is renowned for its diverse scenery and historical significance. The Alum Cave Bluffs, for instance, were once mined for alum and other minerals. The trail provides a fantastic opportunity to experience the varied ecosystems of the Smokies, from lush old-growth forests to the higher-elevation landscapes near Mount LeConte, offering a true sense of accomplishment for those who reach the top.

The Alum Cave Trail offers an incredible journey through the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains, starting in a dense old-growth forest before revealing a series of geological marvels. You will pass through Arch Rock, a unique natural formation, and later reach the impressive Alum Cave Bluff, a massive rock overhang that feels like a natural cathedral. The trail then continues its ascent to Mount LeConte, rewarding your efforts with stunning panoramic views from Inspiration Point and the summit viewpoints.

This difficult 11.8-mile (19.0 km) hike involves a significant 3109 feet (948 metres) of elevation gain, typically requiring about 6 hours and 23 minutes to complete. Due to its popularity, especially on weekends and during peak seasons, the trailhead parking fills up very early. Plan to arrive well before sunrise to ensure you get a spot and can enjoy the trail without the biggest crowds.

Considered the most scenic and shortest route to Mount LeConte, the Alum Cave Trail is a standout in the park. The Alum Cave Bluff itself holds historical significance, having been mined for saltpeter during the Civil War. This blend of natural beauty, challenging terrain, and a touch of history makes it a truly memorable experience for those seeking a full-day adventure in the Smokies.

The Icewater Spring via Appalachian Trail offers a classic Smoky Mountains hiking experience, leading you through dense montane forests of Fraser fir and red spruce. You'll navigate rocky terrain with a fairly steep ascent, but the reward is the enchanting atmosphere and panoramic mountain views that open up along the ridgeline. This moderate 3.8-mile (6.2 km) route involves 1294 feet (394 metres) of elevation gain and typically takes about 2 hours, making it a great option for a challenging half-day outing.

To plan your visit, head to Newfound Gap, where you'll find ample parking and facilities. This trailhead is a popular starting point, so arriving early is always a good idea, especially on weekends. If you're considering a winter hike, be prepared for potentially icy conditions; microspikes are a smart addition to your gear. While there's a natural spring near Icewater Spring Shelter, always treat the water before consuming it.

This segment of the Appalachian Trail is a favorite among day hikers and section hikers, offering a genuine taste of the iconic long-distance path. It's particularly known for its accessibility and the stunning viewpoints, especially the option to continue slightly past Icewater Spring to Charlie's Bunion for expansive vistas. Keep an eye out for wildlife, including black bears, as you traverse this beautiful part of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

The Charlies Bunion via Kephart Prong Loop is a demanding yet incredibly scenic hike in the Great Smoky Mountains, offering a diverse journey through lush forests and along a cascading stream. You'll navigate log footbridges and rock hops before tackling steep climbs that lead to the iconic Charlies Bunion, where panoramic views of Mount LeConte and Mount Guyot await. This difficult 11.4-mile (18.4 km) route, with 1576 feet (480 metres) of elevation gain, takes approximately 5 hours and 45 minutes, making it a substantial full-day outing.

Starting from the Kephart Prong trailhead, this loop provides a less crowded way to reach Charlies Bunion compared to other popular routes. Be prepared for varied terrain, including potentially tricky log footbridges in icy conditions, and ensure you have appropriate gear for a challenging hike. Winter and spring are often recommended for clearer views and vibrant scenery, respectively.

This trail is a true

The Charlies Bunion via Appalachian Trail is a classic Great Smoky Mountains hike, leading you through a high-elevation spruce-fir forest to one of the park's most iconic viewpoints. Expect a moderate 4.3-mile (6.9 km) out-and-back journey with 1273 feet (388 metres) of elevation gain, taking about 2 hours and 17 minutes. The trail offers a mix of dirt and rocky terrain, with stunning vistas of the North Carolina high country and surrounding peaks as you approach the dramatic Charlies Bunion overlook.

Starting from Newfound Gap, this popular route can see crowded parking lots, so plan an early start, especially on weekends or during peak seasons. Be prepared for varied trail conditions; sections can be wet, and winter hikes may encounter ice or snow. Always carry sufficient water and check local conditions before heading out to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Charlies Bunion is renowned for its spectacular, far-reaching views and its unique geological formation, a bare rock face that's part of the

The Laurel Falls Trail offers a unique hiking experience in the Great Smoky Mountains, primarily due to its largely paved surface that winds through a vibrant mixed hardwood forest. You'll encounter lush mountain-laurel and rhododendrons before reaching the impressive 80-foot Laurel Falls, a two-tiered waterfall with a distinctive walkway allowing you to cross directly over the stream. Despite being paved, be ready for some uneven, steep, and potentially slippery sections, so good footwear is still essential for this accessible yet engaging route.

This popular 2.5-mile (4.0 km) out-and-back hike, with 371 feet (113 metres) of elevation gain and an estimated duration of 1 hour and 10 minutes, is rated easy, making it a favorite for many. However, its popularity means the trailhead parking fills up quickly, especially on weekends and holidays. To secure a spot and enjoy a more peaceful experience, plan to arrive very early in the morning or consider a weekday visit during the quieter seasons.

Historically built in the 1930s for fire access, the trail's paving in the 1960s aimed to combat erosion from its high usage, making it one of only four paved trails in the park. Beyond the falls, the path continues towards the Cove Mountain fire tower, offering a less crowded and more challenging option for those seeking a longer trek. The ability to walk across the waterfall itself is a particularly memorable aspect that sets this trail apart.

The Grotto Falls via Trillium Gap Trail offers a delightful and unique hiking experience through an old-growth forest in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This easy 1.6-mile (2.5 km) route features a steady, gradual ascent of 675 feet (206 metres) to the stunning 25-foot Grotto Falls, which you can actually walk behind. The path meanders through lush vegetation, with exposed tree roots and some rocky sections, making for an engaging journey that takes about 50 minutes to complete.

Planning your visit requires a bit of foresight, as the trailhead parking can become very crowded, especially during peak season. Arriving early in the morning is highly recommended to ensure you find a spot. Spring is a particularly beautiful time to hike, with the forest floor bursting with wildflowers like trillium, making it a scenic treat for nature lovers.

What truly sets this trail apart is the ability to walk directly behind Grotto Falls, a feature unique among waterfalls in the park. This cool, misty environment is also a prime habitat for salamanders. Additionally, keep an eye out for the llama pack train, which uses the Trillium Gap Trail on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays to resupply LeConte Lodge, adding an unexpected and charming sight to your hike.

The Icewater Spring via Appalachian Trail offers a true taste of high-elevation mountain hiking, leading you through montane forests of Fraser fir and red spruce. You'll experience an enchanting forest feel with light filtering through the trees, and be rewarded with spectacular mountain views, especially from viewpoints like Charlie's Bunion, which offers nearly 180-degree vistas of prominent peaks. This moderate 3.1-mile (5.0 km) hike involves a significant 1090 feet (332 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 1 hour and 39 minutes.

Your journey begins at Newfound Gap, where you'll find ample parking and modern bathroom facilities. The trail immediately starts with a steady ascent on a rocky path, so good hiking boots are essential, and poles are highly recommended. If you plan to hike in winter, be prepared for icy conditions that may require microspikes.

This segment of the Appalachian Trail is notable for the Icewater Spring Shelter, a popular three-sided structure used by thru-hikers, complete with a composting toilet and bear cable system. The trail provides a genuine experience of one of America's most famous long-distance trails, showcasing the challenging terrain and stunning natural beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains.