East Tennessee Hiking: Trails, Tips & Must-See Destinations
Introduction
East Tennessee is a hiker’s paradise, offering everything from gentle waterfall walks to rugged mountain climbs. With the Great Smoky Mountains, Cumberland Plateau, and countless state parks, the region boasts some of the most scenic trails in the Southeast. Let’s talk about East Tennessee Hiking.
This guide covers:
✔ Best hiking trails in East Tennessee (for all skill levels)
✔ Essential gear & safety tips
✔ Best seasons for hiking
✔ Hidden gems & lesser-known trails
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced trekker, this guide will help you explore East Tennessee hiking at its finest.
Top East Tennessee Hiking Trails
🥾 Easy Hikes (Family-Friendly)
| Trail | Location | Distance | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Laurel Falls | Great Smoky Mountains NP | 2.6 mi (RT) | Paved trail to a stunning 80-ft waterfall |
| Bald River Falls | Cherokee National Forest | 0.3 mi (RT) | Easy access to a powerful waterfall |
| Seven Islands State Birding Park Loop | Knox County | 3.0 mi (loop) | River views, wildflowers, birdwatching |
🥾🥾 Moderate Hikes (Great for Weekend Adventures)
| Trail | Location | Distance | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alum Cave Trail to Mt. LeConte | GSMNP | 11 mi (RT) | Iconic Smokies hike with cliffs & views |
| Frozen Head State Park – Panther Branch Trail | Morgan County | 5.0 mi (RT) | Waterfalls, old-growth forest |
| Chimney Tops Trail | GSMNP | 3.8 mi (RT) | Steep climb, panoramic summit views |
🥾🥾🥾 Challenging Hikes (For Experienced Hikers)
| Trail | Location | Distance | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gregory Bald via Gregory Ridge Trail | GSMNP | 11.3 mi (RT) | Famous for summer azalea blooms |
| Big South Fork – Twin Arches Loop | Scott County | 8.5 mi (loop) | Massive sandstone arches & cliffs |
| Roan Mountain – Carvers Gap to Grassy Ridge | Cherokee NF | 5.0 mi (RT) | Stunning bald mountain views |
When to Hike in East Tennessee
🌷 Spring (March–May)
- Pros: Wildflowers (trillium, mountain laurel), mild temps
- Cons: Muddy trails, occasional storms
☀️ Summer (June–August)
- Pros: Lush greenery, waterfall flows strong
- Cons: Hot & humid, crowded in Smokies
🍂 Fall (September–November)
- Pros: Best foliage (peaks mid-October), cooler air
- Cons: Popular trails get busy
❄️ Winter (December–February)
- Pros: Solitude, snow-capped peaks (higher elevations)
- Cons: Icy trails, some park roads closed
Essential Hiking Gear for East Tennessee
- Footwear: Sturdy hiking boots (rocky, root-filled trails)
- Water: At least 2L per person (many trails lack reliable water sources)
- Navigation: Trail map/GPS (cell service is spotty in mountains)
- Safety: Bear spray (black bears are common), first-aid kit
- Clothing: Layers (temps can shift quickly at elevation)
Safety Tips for East Tennessee Hiking
✅ Check weather forecasts – Sudden storms are common in mountains.
✅ Tell someone your plans – Many trails have limited rescue access.
✅ Stay on marked trails – Off-trail hiking risks erosion & getting lost.
✅ Avoid wildlife encounters – Store food properly & give bears space.
Hidden Gems & Lesser-Known Trails
- Savage Gulf State Park (near Chattanooga) – Dramatic gorges & waterfalls.
- Citico Creek Wilderness – Remote, pristine streams & old-growth forest.
- House Mountain State Natural Area – Knoxville’s best sunrise hike.
Final Thoughts: Why East Tennessee is a Hiking Paradise
From the iconic Smokies to quiet Cumberland Plateau trails, East Tennessee offers unmatched hiking diversity. Whether you seek waterfalls, wildflowers, or mountain vistas, adventure awaits.
Looking for land near great trails? Explore our East Tennessee properties close to top hiking destinations!
That’s all for now. If you’re looking for your piece of East Tennessee Off-Grid property, reach out to me HERE!