Top 4 Family Friendly Hikes in the Smokies
One of the top things that people want to do when they visit the Smoky Mountains is hiking so they can see all the beauty of the mountains. However, if they have a family, there has to be research done to figure out which hikes are good for the whole family to be able to enjoy. Luckily, there are many family-friendly hikes in the Smoky Mountains. Here are the top 4 family friendly hikes in the Smoky Mountains:
1. Cove Mountain Trail to Cataract Falls
This trail is perfect for families with young children, as well as for those who are beginner hikers. There are a couple of different attributes of this trail that make it perfect for all members of the family. First of all, getting to Cataract Falls is only ¾ of a mile long, which makes it an easy hike for children. Another great feature of this trail is the location, as it is located just 2 miles from downtown Gatlinburg. This makes it very accessible and a good hike if you are looking for a short hike after spending the day in Gatlinburg.
2. Baskins Creek Falls
Baskins Creek Falls is another great family-friendly hike in the Smoky Mountains, but especially wonderful for children. The thing that makes this trail great for kids are the sights along the way to see and the history behind it. About a mile into the trail, there is a side trail that leads you to Baskins Cemetery. This is a great historical spot for kids to be able to check out while also offering great views of the Smoky Mountains for adults. This hike is also great for the whole family because of the terrain you will encounter. This trail has a difficulty level of 4.91 and levels off to a flat surface about 0.25 miles in
3. Laurel Falls
The hike to Laurel Falls is a fantastic family friend for so many reasons. One of the best things about this hike is the beautiful sights you will see without having to hike a very long distance. The trail to Laurel Falls is only 2.3 miles roundtrip, making this a great hike for children of all ages. Along with being a short hike, the gem at the end of the trail is the magnificent Laurel Falls, an 80-foot waterfall with a bridge that cuts through the middle of it. Unlike some other trails on this list, Laurel Falls is a well-known family hiking destination. Therefore, you will more than likely encounter other families on the way to see the waterfall.
4. Porters Creek Trail
This trail makes the list because of all the different types of nature you will encounter throughout the trail. Some of the highlights of the hike include some of the most beautiful wildflowers and a river. There is also a tremendous amount of history on this hike, including remains of the Elbert Cantrell farmstead, John Messer farmstead, and Fern Branch Falls. With all the different scenery and history on this trail, it makes it the perfect family-friendly hike in the Smoky Mountains that has something for every member of the family.
Where to Stay
If you are looking for something to do with the family to experience the natural beauty of the Smoky Mountains and are looking for a hike that is good for the whole family, these are just a few of the many available hikes. These family-friendly hikes in the Smoky Mountains are just some of the many things you can do while you are here. Check out more area attractions for ideas of what to do on your next vacation.