FAVORITE HIKES IN THE SMOKIES
There are many, many more hikes in the Smokies, but we have narrowed down our recommended hikes for kid-pleasing, shorter, easier walks in the woods! Maximizing the fun and minimizing the whining is always the goal…
* FAVORITE * SCENIC * EASY * *WORTHWHILE * HIKES IN THE SMOKIES * FAMILY FUN *
Bryson City, North Carolina is loaded with attractions that the whole family will enjoy-- between train rides, playing on the water, its proximity to the Smoky Mountains National Park, and the charming downtown with great food and a casual vibe. You will have a fantastic weekend!
Living just 30 minutes from the entrance to the Smokies, we are often asked about a one day itinerary for friends and family visiting the park. Although you could easily spend a week here, we think this one day plan captures the spirit and beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Want to take a trip to the Smokies and camp in the woods but not sure what to expect? We’ll tell you everything you need to know about Elkmont Campground in exhaustive detail- what campsites are the best, how to reserve, and all the little things that will help you plan your trip. This family friendly campground is one of our favorites in the Smokies and we return to it again and again.
Use this local’s years of experience at gorgeous Cades Cove to find out everything you need to know about camping at Cades Cove Campground. Best campsites, best activities, how to explore the cove without people- all the hacks and know-how I have accumulated over the years to make your family’s trip the best it can be.
Want to hike to Alum Cave and Mount LeConte? Wondering if your kids can handle this can't miss Smokies trail? We have details, tips, and hacks to help you hike this spectacular trail, one of the most popular and iconic hikes in the Smokies.
Our favorite family hikes in the Smokies are not too long nor exhausting and typically have a highlighted feature such as a waterfall, creek, or historic cabin that the kids will enjoy. There are many, many more hikes but we have narrowed down our recommended hikes for kid-pleasing, shorter, easier walks in the woods!
The Walker Sister Cabin is my family's favorite historic site in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park. It makes for a perfect afternoon outing for the family, and the kids (and you) will love walking through the cabin and imagining the lives lived here by the Walker sisters during the early 1900's.
The Middle Prong Trail in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of our favorite hikes in the winter. If you’re lucky, you may even witness a frozen wonderland of icicles and cascades frozen in their tracks along the tributaries of the Little River in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. No matter the season, the Middle Prong Trail is an easy and pleasant hike in the Smokies.
Elkmont is one of our go-to campgrounds in the Smokies because it has so many kid-friendly activities to do at or near the campground. Hiking, swimming, biking, fishing, history… there is even a ghost town on site to explore. These are our family’s top 10 favorite activities when we camp at Elkmont.