The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a paradise for nature lovers — filled with lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and breathtaking mountain vistas. But for families and first-time hikers, exploring this vast wilderness can seem intimidating. The good news? The Smokies are home to plenty of beginner-friendly hiking trails perfect for all ages and fitness levels. Whether you’re traveling with young kids or just prefer a relaxing walk through nature, this guide highlights the best easy hikes for families and tips to make your Smoky Mountain adventure unforgettable.
Why the Smokies Are Perfect for Family Hiking
Stretching across Tennessee and North Carolina, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited national park in the United States. It’s free to enter, open year-round, and offers over 800 miles of maintained trails — many of which are short, scenic, and suitable for families.
Beyond the beauty of the mountains, the park offers educational opportunities too. Kids can spot wildlife, learn about Appalachian history, and even participate in the Junior Ranger Program (National Park Service) — a fantastic way to turn a hike into a fun learning experience.
Top Beginner-Friendly Hiking Trails in the Smokies
Below are some of the most accessible, family-friendly hikes in the park, each offering something unique — from gentle streams to incredible mountain views.
1. Laurel Falls Trail
Location: Near Sugarlands Visitor Center, Gatlinburg, TN
Distance: 2.6 miles round trip
Difficulty: Easy
Highlights: Waterfall, paved path, mountain views
Laurel Falls is one of the most popular waterfall hikes in the Smokies — and for good reason. The trail is paved and moderately sloped, making it suitable for families with older children. At the end of the trail, hikers are rewarded with an 80-foot cascading waterfall. Be sure to bring your camera; the bridge that crosses in front of the falls makes for a perfect family photo spot.
💡 Tip: Go early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid crowds, especially during summer.
2. Gatlinburg Trail
Location: Near Sugarlands Visitor Center
Distance: 3.8 miles round trip
Difficulty: Easy
Highlights: River views, pet-friendly, accessible for strollers
This trail is one of the few in the national park that allows dogs and bicycles, making it a hit for families traveling with pets. The mostly flat path runs alongside the West Prong of the Little Pigeon River, offering peaceful water views and remnants of old homesteads along the way.
If you’re staying nearby, you can easily access this trail from downtown Gatlinburg, making it a perfect morning walk before exploring the town’s shops and attractions.
3. Elkmont Nature Trail
Location: Elkmont Campground area
Distance: 0.8-mile loop
Difficulty: Easy
Highlights: Short, shaded loop, educational signs
For families with very young kids, this short nature loop is a fantastic introduction to hiking. The Elkmont Nature Trail offers interpretive signs explaining the local flora, fauna, and history of the once-thriving Elkmont community. It’s shaded and peaceful, providing a true forest experience without requiring much effort.
Nearby, you can explore Elkmont’s “Ghost Town”, where old cabins and structures from the early 1900s still stand — an excellent side adventure for curious kids.
4. Kephart Prong Trail
Location: Newfound Gap Road (near Smokemont Campground)
Distance: 4 miles round trip
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Highlights: Log bridges, streams, forest views
If your family is ready for a slightly longer walk, Kephart Prong Trail is a great next step. The path follows a babbling stream, crossing it several times via sturdy log bridges that kids love. The area is rich in history, once home to a Civilian Conservation Corps camp in the 1930s. You’ll find remnants of the camp along the way, turning the hike into a living history lesson.
5. Clingmans Dome Observation Tower Trail
Location: Clingmans Dome Road
Distance: 1 mile round trip
Difficulty: Moderate (short but steep)
Highlights: Panoramic mountain views, highest point in the Smokies
Though short, this paved trail climbs steadily to the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park (6,643 feet). The reward is worth every step — a 360-degree view of the surrounding mountains from the observation tower. On clear days, you can see up to 100 miles!
Families with young kids might need to take breaks along the way, but benches and scenic rest stops make it manageable. Don’t forget a light jacket — it’s often cooler and windier at the summit.
6. Abrams Falls Trail
Location: Cades Cove Loop Road
Distance: 5 miles round trip
Difficulty: Moderate (but family-friendly)
Highlights: Powerful waterfall, scenic forest trail
Abrams Falls is one of the most rewarding family hikes in the park. The trail meanders through pine-oak forest alongside Abrams Creek and ends at a stunning 20-foot waterfall that pours into a deep pool. Although slightly longer, it’s a manageable hike for active families, especially those with older children.
Combine your visit with a scenic drive through Cades Cove, a valley rich with wildlife and historic log cabins. You can learn more at the official Cades Cove visitor guide.
Tips for a Successful Family Hike in the Smokies
A little preparation goes a long way toward making your Smoky Mountain adventure smooth and fun for everyone.
1. Start Early
Trails like Laurel Falls and Cades Cove are extremely popular. Early morning hikes not only avoid crowds but also let you enjoy cooler temperatures and better wildlife sightings.
2. Pack Smart
Bring water, snacks, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit. Kids often get hungry faster on hikes, so keep energy bars or trail mix handy.
You can find a full checklist on REI’s Family Hiking Guide.
3. Dress in Layers
Mountain weather can change quickly. Lightweight, moisture-wicking layers are ideal, especially at higher elevations like Clingmans Dome.
4. Stay on the Trail
To protect the fragile ecosystem (and your safety), always stay on designated paths. Teach kids about Leave No Trace principles — take only photos, leave only footprints.
5. Turn It into a Learning Experience
Encourage children to observe plants, birds, and insects. You can pick up a Junior Ranger Activity Book at visitor centers and earn badges by completing educational activities.
Where to Stay Near the Trails
If you’re planning a family getaway, staying near Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge gives you easy access to these hiking trails. For a peaceful mountain experience with resort-style comfort, check out Smith Creek Resort — located close to top hiking areas, scenic drives, and family attractions. It’s a perfect home base after a day of exploring the Smokies.
Conclusion
Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, teaching your kids about nature, or just enjoying a peaceful forest walk, the Great Smoky Mountains offer a hiking experience for everyone. From the accessible Gatlinburg Trail to the scenic Abrams Falls, these beginner-friendly hikes combine natural beauty with family fun.
So lace up your hiking boots, pack a picnic, and head into the Smokies — one unforgettable trail at a time.
