Hiking is a popular activity for guests who stay at our cabins! They love the beautiful scenery and the stillness of nature! If you’ve done it before and are ready to step up your game, keep reading. Let us offer some recommendations on what your next route should be. Here is a list of 4 challenging Smoky Mountain hikes:
1. Rainbow Falls Trail to Mount LeConte
When you hike the Rainbow Falls Trail to Mount LeConte, you will travel a roundtrip distance of 13.8 miles. The terrain is washed out and rocky, and there is an elevation gain of 3,993 feet. If you need a break, stop and admire the stunning sights. One of them is Rainbow Falls. At 80 feet tall, it is the tallest single-drop waterfall in the Smoky Mountains. If you plan to do some exploring around the water and rocks, wear sturdy shoes that will help you maintain your balance and minimize the chance of slipping. At the end of the trail, take some deep breaths and gaze at the stunning views from Mount LeConte. This is the third-highest peak of the Great Smoky Mountains.
2. Baxter Creek Trail to Mt. Sterling Fire Tower
Another one of the challenging Smoky Mountain hikes is the Baxter Creek Trail. It has a roundtrip distance of 12.2 miles and a significant elevation gain of 4,200 feet in just 6.2 miles. Hikers will pass through an old-growth forest and see lots of rock formations. At the end of the trail, you’ll see the Mt. Sterling Fire Tower. This 60-foot structure has 5 flights of stairs. Once at the top, you will see some gorgeous mountain views.
3. Middle Prong Trail
The Middle Prong Trail is a hidden gem trail in the Smoky Mountains. It is located in the Tremont section of the national park which is close to Cades Cove. Even though the terrain is wide, the route is still an 8.2-mile trail that is a steady climb. This makes it strenuous and difficult. Hikers will love admiring the stunning cascades along the way, one of which is Lynn Camp Falls. There are also cool historical remnants to look out for, including a 1920s Cadillac, a chimney from an old homestead, and a railroad beam. The trail’s grand finale is Indian Flats Falls. The water drops a total of 60 feet in 3 tiers. If you plan to do any exploring along the water, be mindful of the slippery rocks.
4. Gregory Bald Overlook
The hike to the Gregory Bald Overlook has a roundtrip distance of 11.3 miles. The terrain is a steady uphill climb that goes through an old hardwood forest. In the summer months, it is filled with a field of Flame Azaleas. They are vibrant colors of orange, red, pink, and yellow. It is a great backdrop for memorable photos. Gregory Bald itself has a height of 4,900 feet. You’ll see some stunning views of Cades Cove, the most visited area of the national park!
We hope you try one of these challenging Smoky Mountain hikes. Want to learn about more routes to take? Explore our other list of easy hiking trails in the Smoky Mountains everyone can enjoy!
