Since the establishment of the National Park in 1936, Gatlinburg has become the destination of choice for visitors to the Great Smoky Mountains. The park is a favorite choice for both through hiking and day trips.
One of the most popular day hikes in the park is the Chimney Tops Trail. This popular 4.2 mile roundtrip trail will take you to some of the best views in the Smokies.
The popularity of this trail may require parking some distance from the trailhead, so arrive early or plan on an extra long walk. Be sure to wear good hiking shoes or boots and carry enough water for the climb to the top of the mountain.
Begin your outing just a few miles south of town on U.S. 441 at The Sugarlands Visitor Center. The Sugarlands is aptly named due to the sugar maples that dominate the landscape. At the visitor center, you can get books, maps, and updates on weather and wildlife issues.
Continuing south on the Newfound Gap Road about 4 miles, and just after going through the tunnel, you will come to the Chimney Tops Trailhead.
The trail starts through a pleasant wooded stream valley, and all crossings have bridges so you can avoid rock hopping. You will pass through heavy rhododendron thickets as you begin the ascent to the summit.
The trail is moderately steep in some areas, so rest as needed. As you continue the climb, wonderful vistas will open up to you! At the crest, you will continue along the ridge until you come to the Chimneys.
The Chimneys are actually rock formations at the peak of the mountain that are hollow in the middle and resemble a large stone chimney. From the top of the big chimney the view is spectacular, and a fitting reward for the exertion required ti get there!
Return via the same route, and then it's back to Gatlinburg for food, shopping and entertainment!
Photos: Top right: The Chimneys from The Newfound Gap Road, Bottom left: The big Chimney. Courtesy of Richard Weisser and SmokyPhotos.com.
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All content, including text, original art, photographs and images, is the exclusive property of Coweta Fayette Real Estate, Inc., and may not be used without the expressed written permission of Coweta Fayette Real Estate, Inc. All information is believed to be accurate but is not warranted, Copyright 2003-2008. |
All content, including text, original art, photographs and images, is the exclusive property of Coweta Fayette Real Estate, Inc., and may not be used without the expressed written permission of Coweta Fayette Real Estate Better Homes and Gardens Metro Brokers, Newnan Georgia. All information is believed to be accurate but is not warranted, Copyright 2003-2009. Richard Weisser REOS, E-Pro. licensed Auctioneer. 770-827-6225.
Learn more about Coweta County and Fayette County Georgia Real Estate, and to search the entire Georgia MLS for free with no registration required. Visit CowetaFayetteRealEstate.com! Photos of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. North Georgia Photos.
Richard: These are lovely photos, and a great description of the hiking trail. There should be no surprises for anyone as to the length or difficulty of the hike after reading this.
Richard,
You are so tempting me to make a trip to Gatlinburg. Not because I have been up to the Great Smoky Mountains but because of your descriptions of the area.
Sounds and looks like a terrific hike! Your pictures never cease to take my breath away!
You know, if you keep up with the gorgeous photos and great travelogues, I will not get any work done because I'll be too busy planning trips everywhere! Thanks for the info.
Richard - I might just have to head back to Gatlinburg and take that hike.
Chris Ann...
Thanks. I plan on doing a series on the Smokies! With fall coming, it should be a lot of fun!
Don...
When we go we spend most of our days hiking and most of the nights in Gatlinburg. It's fun!
Pam...
Thanks, I try very hard to make place sound and look good!
Susan...
I appreciate that very much, the Smokies in late October are great! Plan on it! ;)
Mike...
You can practically hike there from Athens! lol