Hiking through the Great Smoky Mountain National Park is, of course, one of the best and most magically things to do in Gatlinburg this winter. With more than 800-miles of hiking trails across North Carolina and Tennessee that boast the most incredible and picturesque panoramic views, it is easy to see why the Great Smoky Mountain National Park is the number one visited national park with more than ten million visitors each year. That total more than doubles the total of the second most visited park! There is just something so tranquil and majestic about experiencing the snowcapped mountains up close and personal. With so many trails to choose from, we decided to make some suggestions to help you decide. 

 

Mount Cammerer

This 11-mile roundtrip hike in Cosby is a little more challenging than some but features 360-degree views from this 4928-foot mountain. You will be amazed by the octagonal fire lookout on top of the summit of Mt. Cammerer that was built by local in the late 1930s. Enjoy some of the best views in town from the deck of this fire tower.

 

Charlie’s Bunion

At just over 8-miles roundtrip, Charlie’s Bunion offers spectacular panoramic views of the Tennessee and North Carolina Smokies and is conveniently located to both Tennessee and North Carolina off of Newfound Gap Road. Enjoy views of Mount LeConte, Myrtle Point and so much more! Be aware that you might encounter some ice at some of the higher elevations, but in all this is a safe hike that is worth the journey up to witness the remarkable views with its highest elevation of an astounding 6122 feet!

 

Spruce Flats Falls

Located in the Tremont section of the Great Smoky Mountains, Spruce Flats Falls is an approximate 30-foot high stunning waterfall! With just a short 2-mile hike, you can experience this hidden treasure of the Smokies. Though short in distance, this is a moderately difficult hike, but the reward for your efforts is simply incredible! 

 

Andrews Bald

Access the trailhead for Andrews Bald conveniently from the popular Clingmans Dome parking lot. This 3.5-mile hike features elevations as high as 6310-feet. Enjoy views of Fontana Lake and the southern Smokies from its vantage point. A bald by definition is a grassy meadow at a high elevation. Andrews Bald is the highest one of its kind in the Great Smoky Mountains.