A Complete Guide to Hiking Chimney Tops Trail in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

A Complete Guide to Hiking Chimney Tops Trail in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

🥾 Craving a short, steep, and scenic hike near Gatlinburg? Chimney Tops Trail in Great Smoky Mountains National Park delivers big rewards with a relatively short distance. Though the summit is permanently closed, the new overlook offers some of the most jaw-dropping views in the Smokies. It’s a must-do hike for adventurous visitors ready for a challenge.

Where Is Chimney Tops Trail Located?

• 📍 Trailhead: Along Newfound Gap Road (US-441), Tennessee side of the park

• 🗺 Nearest City: Gatlinburg, TN (6.7 miles north)

• 🚗 From Cherokee, NC: ~22 miles north via US-441

• 🅿️ Parking: Limited — arrive early for best availability

Why Hike Chimney Tops Trail?

• 🏞 Stunning views from the Chimney Tops overlook

• 🧗‍♂️ Strenuous climb that rewards with epic panoramas

• 🌸 Lush forests and scenic water crossings

• 📜 Historic route used by early settlers and explorers

Trail Overview & Difficulty

• 📏 Distance: 3.6 miles round trip

• ⬆️ Elevation Gain: ~1,400 feet in 1.8 miles

• 🔁 Trail Type: Out-and-back

• ⚠️ Difficulty: Strenuous (short but very steep)

• 🌧 Conditions: Rocky and slippery when wet

Scenic Highlights Along the Trail

• 🌊 Bridges & Streams: Multiple crossings over cascading creeks

• 🪨 Rocky Climb: A workout with natural staircases

• 👀 Chimney Tops Overlook: Breathtaking panoramic views

Note: The final summit section is permanently closed due to wildfire damage, but the current overlook still delivers unforgettable scenery.

Best Time to Hike Chimney Tops

• 🌼 Spring/Summer: Lush greens and blooming wildflowers

• 🍁 Fall: Vibrant foliage and crisp air

• ❄️ Winter: Fewer crowds, icy conditions possible

• ⏰ Early Morning or Late Afternoon: Best light, cooler temps, fewer hikers

Wildlife & Flora

• 🐻 Black bears — Stay alert and store food properly

• 🦌 Deer, wild turkeys, and various bird species

• 🌲 Ferns, rhododendrons, and tall hardwoods

Things to Do Nearby

• 🏔 Visit Clingmans Dome — Highest point in the Smokies

• 📍 Stop at Newfound Gap Overlook

• 🥾 Hike Alum Cave Trail — Another scenic favorite

• 🍽 Explore Gatlinburg for post-hike dining

Tips for Hiking Chimney Tops Trail

• 🥾 Wear proper hiking shoes with good grip

• 💧 Bring water/snacks — No amenities on trail

• ⛅ Check weather — Conditions change quickly

• 🚧 Respect closures — Do not attempt to summit

• ♻️ Leave No Trace — Preserve the beauty for all

Chimney Tops Trail is one of the most exhilarating short hikes in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. With a steep climb, dramatic views, and a rugged terrain, it packs a lot into just a few miles. If you’re up for a challenge, this iconic trail near Gatlinburg should top your list.

👉 Book a Stay Today and make Chimney Tops part of your Smoky Mountain adventure: https://smokymountainstays.com