Great Smoky Mountains National Park contains hundreds of miles of beautiful rivers and trails to explore during a vacation at Mountain Air Cabin Rentals. Plenty of the trails are great for everyone from experienced hikers to young children, and there are even a few four-legged family members. These four trails are easily reached from the Gatlinburg/Pigeon Forge area. They follow babbling creeks with waterfalls and offer a historical twist with many house foundations, old logging constructions, and even whole buildings to explore along the way.
Gatlinburg Trail
Gatlinburg Trail meanders along the Little Pigeon River for about 2 miles between the west side of Gatlinburg and Sugarlands Visitor’s Center. Along the way, there are foundations of historic home sites and a wide footbridge. The trail is fairly flat and pets are allowed so it’s easy for the whole family to come along.
Metcalf Bottoms Trail
Metcalf Bottoms Trail leaves from the Metcalf Bottoms Picnic Area halfway between Sugarlands Visitor’s Center and Cades Cove, climbing gently for a little over a half-mile. There are historic home foundations to see along the way, and Little Greenbrier School is at the end. This abandoned one-room schoolhouse is open for exploration and sits next to an old cemetery.
Twin Creeks Trail
Twin Creeks Trail runs along Cherokee Orchard Road and LeConte Creek for about 2 miles between Mynatt Park at the south end of Gatlinburg and the historic Noah Ogle Cabin at the beginning of the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail. It passes other home foundations along the way and makes for a lovely walk through the woods.
Middle Prong Trail
Middle Prong Trail begins at the end of the road into Tremont near Cades Cove. This is a relatively easy hike because it was originally a railroad bed for the logging activities in the area. It follows the Middle Prong of the Little River, and there are several beautiful waterfalls within about a half-mile of the parking area.
So be sure not to miss out on these great hikes with your family on your next visit to the smokies.
