There’s nothing more breathtaking than looking out at sweeping views of the mountains. A great way to appreciate the area is to go hiking in the Smoky Mountains. If you are looking for a challenging trip that has amazing views, look no further. Here are 6 challenging trails for hiking in the Smoky Mountains with incredible views:
1. Alum Cave
One of the most popular hiking trails in the area is Alum Cave. The roundtrip length is about 5 miles, and this trail is considered moderate. You’ll pass all things of rock features and walk through the woods. This trail is considered challenging because of its rocky features and length. As you get closer to the bluffs, you’ll see more views of the mountains. Once you reach Alum Cave, you’ll be amazed as you take in the sheer size of the bluffs and the mountain views.
2. Gregory Bald
Gregory Bald is a great place to go hiking in the Smoky Mountains if you want to see views. This trail is difficult with a roundtrip length of about 11 miles. In the spring and summer, you’ll see all kinds of flame azalea when you reach the bald, and in the fall, you’ll get a great view of the fall foliage. Mountain views from the bald are absolutely incredible.
3. Charlies Bunion
For a truly incredible view, you should hike to Charlies Bunion. This trail is considered difficult and is 8 miles roundtrip. In the early spring, you’ll see quite a few wildflowers along the trail. As you keep climbing, you might see mountains through the trees. The terrain along this trail is pretty rugged, making it a more challenging hike. Once you reach the rock outcropping, you’ll have amazing panoramic views to enjoy.
4. Andrews Bald
If Gregory Bald sounds like a great hike but it’s too difficult, you should hike to Andrews Bald. It’s another meadow on a mountaintop, but the trail is considered moderate instead of difficult. Its roundtrip length is 3.6 miles, and the terrain is rocky. Once you reach the bald though, you’ll find the climb was worth it!
5. Mt. Cammerer
Want to have a 360-degree view experience? You should hike to Mount Cammerer. It’s about 11 miles roundtrip and considered difficult. The trail is fairly steep near the beginning with plenty of rugged terrain, and you’ll hike alongside creeks. Once you reach the top, you’ll see the old fire tower where you’ll have incredible views of the surrounding mountains.
6. Mount LeConte
Mount LeConte is the tallest mountain in the area you can hike. There are 5 trails you can choose from to hike to the top, and they are Alum Cave, Rainbow Falls, Boulevard Trail, Bullhead Trail, and Trillium Gap. All of them are considered difficult but are various lengths. You’ll have an amazing hike no matter which trail you choose, and you’ll be able to take in the beauty of the mountains.
If you want to go hiking in the Smoky Mountains and challenge yourself, these trails are the perfect ones to go on. Want to see other beautiful views in the Smokies? Check out these hikes with mountain views!
