Many visitors to the Smokies love hiking, and this activity is a great way to enjoy the fresh air and stunning scenery. Of course, a successful hike involves proper planning to ensure it will be both fun and safe, so keep reading to learn how to set up a rewarding hike and have a memorable day exploring and hiking in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
1. Research Hiking Trails
One of the most important elements of a fulfilling hike is finding a trail that suits your skill level. There are more than 850 miles of hiking trails in the Smokies, so there is a lot to choose from! If you're a beginner, you'll love the trails that are under 5 miles, such as The Gatlinburg Trail. Want a bit more of a challenge? Take the Rainbow Falls Trail which is around 5.4 miles to the waterfall itself, but you can make the route even longer when you continue on to Mount LeConte for a total of 13.8 miles round trip. No matter how long you spend hiking in the Smokies, all trails have stunning scenery and beautiful views, which means that there is no wrong choice!
2. Check The Weather
Once you've chosen a trail in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, you'll want to keep an eye on the weather on the days leading up to your hike. The weather can change rapidly, but it doesn’t have to put a damper on your plans if you bring the right gear. Wear sunscreen if it’s hot, bring an umbrella and a waterproof jacket if rain is forecasted, and wear a warm jacket and layers if it’s cold. Keep in mind that the temperature will drop as much as 20 degrees if you venture into higher elevations. No matter what the temperature is, make sure you have a sturdy pair of shoes to hike in. They will help you maintain your footing and keep your feet from getting tired. Weather can also result in sudden road closures. Ice or flooding may make the trails temporarily unsafe, so the National Park Service may decide to close them until the conditions clear up. Check the Smokies Road Info page (@SmokiesRoadsNPS) on X (Formerly Twitter) for the most up-to-date information. Have alternate routes planned if needed.
3. Eat A Good Meal
So, you’ve picked out the right trail and have all the necessary gear for the weather. What’s next? You need energy for your hike! Have a hearty meal before you head out and be sure to eat something with protein, such as eggs, toast with peanut butter, or oatmeal. You may want to bring some small snacks to have during the hike as well. Some great options include protein or granola bars, apples, bananas, and oranges. In addition to food, you’ll want to bring along plenty of water as well so that you can stay hydrated. Your hike will be even more enjoyable when your body has enough fuel to keep going, especially on those longer and steeper trails!
Now you know how to prepare for your hike in the Smokies! If you want to stick around to enjoy the area more, explore our other list of fun things to do after hiking in Great Smoky Mountains National Park!
