There are several beautiful trails through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park’s pristine terrain. Many of them are not strenuous and are less than five miles in length. People can get away from the hustle of everyday life and away from the crowds at Gatlinburg and walk the pathways through these preserved parklands. Wildlife is prevalent as trails meander through their natural habitat. Here are three easy and short day hikes on self-guided trails at the northern end of this national park:
Cosby Nature Trail
Entering the park from the Cosby entrance just out of Gatlinburg off Highway 321, a sign designates the beginning of this unpaved trail and a car parking area is provided. The winding path through the woods offers wooden bridges at several points. These bridges cross small creeks and streams along the way.
Fighting Creek Nature Trail
Another unpaved and well-marked path about a mile long starts at the Sugarlands Visitor Center. In the 1800s, the area was a farming community of about 25 homesteads. Cataract falls are just off the trail. A pamphlet at the visitor center is sold for a small fee, and it gives details about the numbered features found on the trail. Number markers along the trail mark these points of interest like various farms and the John Ownby cabin. Plaques all along the trail give the names of particular growing trees.
Sugarlands Valley Nature Trail
This half-mile paved trail makes a loop into the wooded valley. The pathway is wheelchair accessible, as it is only slightly sloping. Sights on the trail include old chimneys from where cabins used to stand, new and older trees and frequent benches for sitting. The trail is beside a creek with some small rapids. When the stream has enough water in it, the sound of the water is heard all along the path.
After a fun day of hiking in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, you can retire to your cozy condo in Pigeon Forge. Cherokee Lodge condominiums offers luxury lodging minutes away from the National Park, Dollywood and all of the best attractions in the Smokies. Visit our Specials page to find out about our latest deals and promotions!
