19. Chimney Tops Trail

Chimney Tops 2016 Wildfire Information and Updates

On November 23, 2016, a wildfire known as the Chimney Tops 2 Fire was ignited near the Chimney Tops Trail in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The blaze, which started from human causes, rapidly spread due to high winds and dry conditions, ultimately burning nearly 11,000 acres within the park and affecting surrounding areas, including Gatlinburg.

The fire caused significant damage to the trail, particularly the upper sections, where soil erosion and loss of vegetation made the terrain unstable and hazardous. In the aftermath, the National Park Service closed the entire trail for safety assessments and rehabilitation efforts.

Under the Trails Forever program, supported by Friends of the Smokies, extensive renovations were undertaken to restore the lower portions of the trail. This included repairing bridges, installing stone steps, and stabilizing eroded areas to prevent further environmental degradation from heavy foot traffic. The trail partially reopened on October 6, 2017, allowing access up to a newly constructed observation deck.

However, the final quarter-mile to the actual summit of the Chimney Tops remains permanently closed due to ongoing instability. The fire stripped away much of the soil and vegetation, exposing bare rock and creating steep drop-offs that pose significant risks to hikers. Ignoring closure signs has led to injuries and required search-and-rescue operations.

As of September 2025, the trail is open to the observation deck, offering safe, stunning views of the pinnacles and surrounding mountains. Repeat photography projects by the NPS show promising vegetation recovery, with species like fire cherry and birch regenerating in burned areas, but full stabilization for reopening the summit is not anticipated soon.

Hikers should check the park’s current conditions page for any temporary closures due to weather, maintenance, or wildlife activity.

Getting to Chimney Tops Trail

Chimney Tops Trail is conveniently located along Newfound Gap Road (US-441), the main thoroughfare through Great Smoky Mountains National Park, making it accessible from both the Tennessee and North Carolina sides.

• From Sugarlands Visitor Center (near Gatlinburg, TN): Head south on Newfound Gap Road for approximately 7 miles. The trailhead parking area will be on the right side of the road, just after passing the lower tunnel and before reaching “The Loop” overlook. Look for signage indicating the Chimney Tops Trailhead.
• From Oconaluftee Visitor Center (near Cherokee, NC): Drive north on Newfound Gap Road for about 22 miles. The parking area will appear on the left side, shortly after descending from Newfound Gap. This route offers scenic views of the Smokies’ high-elevation forests and potential wildlife sightings along the way.

The trailhead is easy to spot with its paved parking lot and informational signs. GPS coordinates for the trailhead are approximately 35.6356° N, 83.4692° W. Note that Newfound Gap Road can be busy, especially during peak seasons (spring wildflowers, summer vacations, and fall foliage), so plan for potential traffic delays. The road is open year-round but may close temporarily due to ice or snow in winter, check NPS updates before traveling.

Parking at Chimney Tops Trail

Parking at Chimney Tops Trailhead is limited and often fills up quickly due to the trail’s popularity. The main lot accommodates about 20-30 vehicles and is paved for easy access. If the lot is full, parking along the shoulder of Newfound Gap Road is no longer permitted, as it violates park regulations and can lead to citations for safety and resource protection reasons. The National Park Service has implemented measures, including barriers in some areas, to eliminate unsafe roadside parking across the park. Arrive early, ideally before 9:00 AM, or later in the afternoon to secure a spot.

Parking Tag

A parking tag is required for any vehicle parked in Great Smoky Mountains National Park for more than 15 minutes. These can be purchased online or at visitor centers for a small fee, with proceeds supporting park maintenance.

• Daily: $5.00
• Weekly: $15.00
• Annual: $40.00 (not available online).

No entrance fee is charged for the park itself, but the tag system helps manage visitation impacts. To avoid parking stress, consider using shuttle services offered by local outfitters. These shuttles drop off and pick up at the trailhead, allowing you to focus on the hike without worrying about your vehicle. During weekends and holidays, expect crowds; mid-week hikes offer a quieter experience.

No Pets

Great Smoky Mountains National Park has strict policies regarding pets to protect wildlife, preserve the natural environment, and ensure visitor safety. Pets, including dogs, are not permitted on park trails, including Chimney Tops Trail. The only exceptions are Gatlinburg Trail and Oconaluftee River Trail.

This rule has been in effect since the park’s establishment in the 1930s to prevent issues such as disease transmission to wildlife, disruption of animal behavior, excessive noise, and potential conflicts with other visitors or predators like bears.

• Service Animals: Service animals, defined as dogs individually trained to perform tasks for people with disabilities, are an exception and are allowed wherever visitors can go, including on trails. However, emotional support animals, therapy animals, or service animals in training do not qualify and must follow standard pet regulations.
• Fines: Fines for bringing your pet on a trail can be as high as $5,000.00.

Read: Paws in the Park Pet Policy

Restrooms

Restroom facilities are available at several nearby locations but not directly at the trailhead. The closest options include the Sugarlands Visitor Center (approximately 7 miles north) and the Oconaluftee Visitor Center (about 22 miles south), both of which have year-round restrooms, water fountains, and additional amenities like exhibits and bookstores.

For hikers, the Chimneys Picnic Area offers seasonal restrooms (typically open from early April to December 1), making it a convenient stop before or after your hike. These facilities are flush toilets and are well-maintained, but always check current conditions as weather or maintenance could affect availability. Portable toilets are not provided at the trailhead, so plan your visit accordingly to avoid discomfort during the strenuous hike.

If you are out on a trail and you have to use the toilet, you must abide by back country regulations. I highly recommend you read that article.

Chimney Tops Trail Description

Chimney Tops Trail remains one of the most beloved hikes in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, drawing visitors with its challenging ascent and rewarding vistas. Though modified post-2016 fire, the trail now leads to a safe observation deck, providing panoramic views without the risks of the former summit scramble. The out-and-back path totals 3.5 miles round trip, with an elevation gain of about 1,400 feet, making it a strenuous workout concentrated over a short distance. Rated as difficult, it’s suitable for fit hikers but may challenge beginners due to steep inclines and uneven terrain.

Chimney Tops Trailhead

The trail begins at the parking area, descending gently from the low rock wall to the first of several footbridges. You’ll immediately cross Walker Camp Prong, a branch of the West Prong Little Pigeon River, where the soothing sounds of cascading water set a serene tone. In spring and early summer, this area bursts with wildflowers like trillium, violets, and phacelia, adding vibrant colors to the lush forest floor.

The first mile is moderately uphill, gaining over 400 feet in elevation as you crisscross the river and Road Prong stream multiple times via sturdy wooden bridges. These crossings offer picturesque spots for photos, with small cascades and pools inviting a quick dip on warm days, though remember to stay on the trail to protect fragile riparian habitats. The path is well-maintained, featuring packed dirt, exposed roots, and rocks that require careful footing. Over the years, erosion from heavy use prompted renovations through the Trails Forever program, which added 367 stone steps to stabilize the route and reduce environmental impact.

At Beech Flats

At around the one-mile mark, you’ll reach Beech Flats, a trail junction where the Chimney Tops Trail intersects with the Road Prong Trail (leading to the Appalachian Trail at Indian Gap, 2.3 miles away). Stay right to continue on Chimney Tops. Here, the real challenge begins: the second mile ascends nearly 1,000 feet, curving westward along Sugarland Mountain’s flank. The stone stairs become more frequent, providing traction on the steep grade, but the unrelenting climb demands good cardiovascular fitness. Prepare by training on inclines beforehand, and take breaks to enjoy emerging views of the surrounding ridges.

As you push upward, the forest transitions from dense hardwoods like beech and maple to higher-elevation species, including hemlocks and rhododendrons that bloom spectacularly in June and July. Wildlife sightings are common, keep an eye out for black bears, wild turkeys, or squirrels, but maintain a safe distance and never feed animals. The trail narrows in places, with exposed roots and rocks adding to the rugged feel.

Read: What to Do If You Encounter a Black Bear

Observation Deck

Approaching the 1.75-mile mark, you’ll encounter a closure gate and signage marking the end of the accessible trail. Do not proceed beyond this point, as the upper section is unstable and off-limits. Instead, a short spur leads to the observation deck, built in 2017 to offer a safe vantage point. From here, gaze at the twin pinnacles of Chimney Tops, jagged, rock formations rising dramatically against the sky. The 360-degree panorama includes Mount Le Conte to the east, Sugarland Mountain, and distant valleys shrouded in the park’s signature smoky haze. On clear days, the views rival any in the Smokies, making the effort worthwhile.

The deck provides benches for resting and interpretive panels explaining the fire’s ecological impacts and ongoing recovery. Vegetation regrowth is evident, with new pines and shrubs reclaiming burned slopes, demonstrating the forest’s resilience. Photographers will appreciate the golden hour lighting in late afternoon, when the sun casts a warm glow over the landscape.

Descending

Descending is easier but still demands caution on the steep stairs, knee strain is common, so use trekking poles if available. The round trip typically takes 3-4 hours, depending on fitness and stops. Pack essentials: at least two quarts of water per person, snacks, rain gear (weather changes quickly), sturdy hiking boots, and a map. Cell service is non-existent, so inform someone of your plans.

For a less crowded experience, hike mid-week or in shoulder seasons like late fall or winter, when snow can add a magical touch (though check for ice). Chimney Tops exemplifies the park’s commitment to balancing visitor access with preservation, respect closures to ensure its beauty endures for future generations.

Nearby Points of Interest

• The Chimneys Picnic Area, just 0.5 miles north, offers shaded tables and grills by the river, perfect for post-hike relaxation.
• Newfound Gap, 6 miles south, provides high-elevation overlooks and access to the Appalachian Trail.
• For longer hikes, Alum Cave Trail (4 miles north) leads to stunning bluffs and Mount Le Conte.
• Sugarlands Visitor Center features exhibits on park history and wildlife, plus ranger-led programs.

Chimney Tops Trail encapsulates the Smokies’ allure: challenging terrain, natural beauty, and a touch of wilderness adventure. With its updates, it continues to inspire hikers while prioritizing safety and sustainability.