Chimney Tops Trail
Great Smoky Mountains National Park, TN
Nestled in Tennessee’s Great Smoky Mountains is the Chimney Tops Trail—a hiking trail many visitors like to take on for its panoramic views of the Chimney Tops and Mt. Le Conte. Not suited for beginners, this strenuous trek is well worth the effort it takes to get to the top. You’ll follow uphill stretches, stone steps, and bridges to arrive at a viewing area you won’t soon forget.
The basics
Chimney Tops Trail is 3.3 miles (5.3 kilometers) round-trip, and considered moderately difficult. If you’re an advanced hiker, and have a hiking buddy at the same level, you may want to tackle Chimney Tops Trail on your own time. However, you can also find private and group hiking tours that will take you to the trail and stay with you as you climb for support and a bit of commentary as you go. No matter which you choose to do, make sure you’re in good physical condition in order to be able to make it to the top of Chimney Tops Trail and back.
Things to know before you go
The hike is not for the faint of heart—it’s a challenging trail with a steep elevation gain. Make sure to wear proper hiking footwear and bring plenty of water.
Don’t try to hike the Chimney Tops Trail if it’s just been raining, or if it’s going to rain, as the rocks can be slippery and it’s very dangerous.
Just as with any hike, leave early enough in the day to ensure that you’ll be hiking back in the daylight.
Sorry family vacationers—the Chimney Tops Trail is not recommended for kids.
How to get there
Chimney Tops Trail is located right off Newfound Gap Road (Highway 441). Start south on Highway 441 and continue until you reach Sugarlands Visitors Center, which is about seven miles (11 kilometers) from Newfound Gap Road. You’ll see the trailhead sign, and parking is available on the right-hand side of the road there.
When to get there
Because the trail is popular and parking can be limited, it’s best to try for an early-morning visit to beat the crowds. The trail starts getting crowded as early as 9am. You can also opt for a later afternoon visit in the summer, but you must make sure you’ll be able to complete the hike back before the sun sets.
Find the Quiet Walkways
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park features 14 trails called the Quiet Walkways, which are lovely hidden gems. Most trails are fairly calm year-round and lead to a special spot within the park where you can take in your natural surroundings in peace. You can find these trails by following the main roads inside the park; look for little brown signs along the road that say “Quiet Walkway” in white lettering with an arrow.
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