You don’t need to be a serious hiker to enjoy the park. Here’s how it fits three kinds of trips.
Families Planning a First Park Day
Trails in the Smokies run from easy to tough, so let the youngest legs in your group set the pace. It gets cooler as you climb, even in summer, so bring a light jacket. Start with these kid-friendly hiking trails, or browse all Smoky Mountains hiking trails.
Pet Owners Planning a Park Day
Pets are allowed in the park’s campgrounds and picnic areas as long as they stay on a leash, and two hiking trails welcome them too: the Gatlinburg Trail and the Oconaluftee River Trail. You’ll find details when you plan a pet-friendly park day.
Visitors Who Need Accessible Routes
Sugarlands Valley Trail, near Sugarlands Visitor Center, is a partially paved, nearly level half-mile path. Wheelchair-accessible campsites are available at Cades Cove, Elkmont, and Smokemont. The National Park Service describes the paved trail to Kuwohi as “very steep,” so it is not suitable for most wheelchair users without significant assistance. See more accessible ways to experience the park.
Backcountry camping is a different kind of trip. You’ll need a permit, which the National Park Service handles.
