38. Boogerman Loop via Caldwell Fork Trail
Boogerman Loop is a great historical trail accessed via Caldwell Fork Trail in Cataloochee Valley. Experience more than a dozen creek crossings in one of the best old-growth forests in the Smokies.
37. Little Cataloochee Trail
Little Cataloochee Trail is a moderately difficult trail winding through historic homesteads and across creeks and rivers. Not far from Maggie Valley, Little Cataloochee Trail is popular with equestrians.
36. Mouse Creek Falls via Big Creek Trail
Mouse Creek Falls is accessed via a rather short, moderate hike on Big Creek Trail. A nice 45' tall waterfall as the payoff. Located near Hartford, TN in the Big Creek Campground area.
35. Hen Wallow Falls via Gabes Mountain Trail
Hen Wallow Falls is located about 2.1 miles from the Gabes Mountain Trail trailhead. The 95' drop creates a beautiful ice sculpture during winter freezes. A moderate hike taking just 3-4 hours.
34. Albright Grove Loop Trail
The old gravel road on Maddron Bald Trail gives way to a narrow forest trail about 2.3-miles from the trailhead as you enter a magnificent old-growth forest. The old trees reach to the sky and provide an amazing experience unlike any other in the park. You have almost arrived at Albright Grove Loop.
33. Oconaluftee River Trail
Oconaluftee River Trail is a short and easy hike with quick access from the Oconaluftee Visitor Center. In addition to hikers, dogs and bicycles are allowed. The open-air Mountain Farm Museum is an optional stop at the trailhead.
32. Smokemont Loop Trail
Smokemont Loop Trail is a beautiful hike with flowers, trees, and views. The summit provides great views of the surrounding mountains. Crossing the river requires a little dexterity and a smidgen of courage as the bridge is a single log, about 40 feet long and 2 feet wide. I read somewhere that it is the longest footbridge in the park.
31. Ramsey Cascades Trail
Ramsey Cascades is the tallest waterfall in Great Smoky Mountains National Park at 105 feet. The beautiful waterfall drops down rock outcroppings and gathers in a small pool. There are several places to get great photos with the waterfall in the background.
30. Old Settlers Trail via Maddron Bald Trail
Old Settlers Trail has more historical remnants than any other trail in the park. Early settlers flourished in this area. Many communities were built, then abandoned when park founders took the land for the park through eminent domain. Although this hike is included on our list of 38 Popular Day Hikes, you may want to finish it over two days.
29. Kephart Prong Trail
The hike to Kephart Shelter is 2.0 miles in each direction. Kephart Prong Trail parallels the Kephart Prong of the Oconaluftee River and is a nice place to enjoy the sites and sounds of the river. In addition, quite a few historical remnants remain from early 20th century buildings.