If you are looking for a pleasant and scenic hike that is perfect for everyone in the family, don’t miss the Sugarlands Valley Nature Trail! This easy half mile hike is conveniently located just south of the Sugarlands Visitor Center and offers interpretive exhibits, stunning natural features and unique historical remnants! Here are the top 4 reasons why you should visit the Sugarlands Valley Nature Trail:
1. Fully Accessible for Everyone
The Sugarlands Valley Nature Trail is one of the only trails in Great Smoky Mountains National Park that is fully accessible to strollers and wheelchairs. The half mile loop trail is paved and very well maintained, so even young kids can walk the entire path without getting tired! This trail is also unique in that it has its own designated parking lot so that you can easily access the trailhead. This is the perfect opportunity for physically handicapped individuals to enjoy the great outdoors if they are unable to experience the traditional hiking trails throughout the park! You’ll have a great time hiking in the Smoky Mountains!
2. Fascinating Historical Remnants
Another one of the top reasons why you should visit the Sugarlands Valley Nature Trail is to discover some of the fascinating historical remnants along the path! You’ll find a couple of chimneys that still stand from an early settlement as well as a few stone walls. There are interpretive exhibits along the trail that describe many of the unique historical and natural features. Another interesting sight is the tracks of a black bear that wandered across the freshly poured concrete when the trail was constructed!
3. Beautiful River Views
Although the Sugarlands Valley Nature Trail may be short, it is amazing how many beautiful natural wonders are along this paved trail! The canopy of trees provides plenty of shade so that you can even enjoy a stroll during the warmest days of the summer. One of the highlights is a peaceful river, which also happens to be a popular fishing spot. There are plenty of benches along the trail so that you can rest for a while and enjoy the delightful Smoky Mountain scenery. Be sure to bring your camera along to capture some of nature’s most impressive wonders!
4. Wildlife Viewing Opportunities
Just like most of the other trails throughout Smoky Mountains National Park, the Sugarlands Valley Nature Trail offers the potential opportunity to spot some wildlife! While the trail may be close to the road and rather unassuming, you never know what you might see along the path! As a safety precaution, keep a lookout for bears as they can be dangerous and unpredictable! Keep in mind that hikers in the park are permitted to carry bear pepper spray for the strict purpose of protection against bodily harm from aggressive wildlife, but it should never be applied to people, backpacks and other equipment as a repellent.
Now that you know the top 4 reasons why you should visit the Sugarlands Valley Nature Trail, learn about some more nature trails in the Smoky Mountains that you need to experience! We look forward to you exploring the Smokies!
