Ah, Spring is in the air! What a remarkable time to live in East Tennessee! The mountains are always gorgeous this time of year, and we have the luxury of them being in our backyard. It's time to take advantage of this and have some fun with the family. Hiking is the perfect family adventure! It's a great way to enjoy the scenery and get a little exercise, too. So, when you're looking for a family activity, be sure to check out some of these spots!

Laurel Falls

Any trail ending at a waterfall is well worth the hike! The Laurel Falls trail is located just a few miles from the Sugarlands Visitor Center near Gatlinburg. It's a paved trail, making it perfect for kids and families to enjoy. Roundtrip, the hike to Laurel Falls is 2.3 miles, you'll climb roughly 314 feet in elevation before reaching the beautiful 80-foot waterfall.

 

Clingmans Dome

Clingmans Dome is one of the more iconic hiking trails in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. At 6,643 feet, it boasts the highest point in the park. During the hike, you will gain 332 feet in elevation, and it's just one-mile roundtrip. The 360-degree views of the mountains, including an observatory tower, make the hike work every step!

 

Gatlinburg Trail

This 3.8-mile roundtrip hike is one of the more unique trails in the Smoky Mountains. You can bring dogs on this trail, and it's bicycle-friendly! This is a flat trail, only gaining 177 feet in elevation, is 3.8 miles roundtrip. If you're looking for a different type of trail outside of the norm, Gatlinburg Trail is the way to go for a great overall experience!

 

Mt. LeConte

If there was ever a classic hike in the Smoky Mountains, the Alum Cave Trail to Mt. LeConte is it. At 11 miles roundtrip, the hike is a little longer, but a peak elevation of 6,593 feet makes the scenery phenomenal. One of the many cool features of the trail is following the Alum Cave Creek up to the bluff. Take your family on this expedition to experience one of the most iconic hikes of the Smokies!

 

Porters Creek

While strolling along a delightful cascading stream, you'll walk past many remnants of the early settlers in the Great Smoky Mountains. The four-mile trail ends by reaching a little-known waterfall. Spring may be the best time to hike the trail because of the dazzling display of wildflowers. With wonderful views and longstanding history, this trail is a great source for a family outing.