Hiking in the Smoky Mountains is an ideal way to escape the heat and humidity on hot summer days. But there’s no real reason why you need to wait until summer to hit the trails. The North Carolina side of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park has a network of trails ranging from short to long and options suitable for any skill level.

The Little Cataloochee Trail follows along the picturesque Little Cataloochee River for part of the hike through a dense forest with much to see and admire.
alltrails/Christopher Tanner
Starting from Little Cataloochee Valley, after four miles on the 10.2 mile round-trip trek, you'll reach the Little Cataloochee Baptist Church. (If you turn around and head back after this point it shortens the hike to eight miles.)
Google Maps/Mike Honeycutt
The Little Cataloochee Baptist Church was built in 1889; the belfrey was added in 1914. The bell is still there — and you can ring it once you reach the church.
alltrails/Christopher Tanner

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Getting there means following a well-traveled trail that begins in the valley along the Old Cataloochee Turnpike. (A link to the location is provided at the end of this article.)
alltrails/Robert Dunn
You'll cross several scenic streams filled with moss-covered boulders. Footbridges are in place; however, if you hike within a week after heavy downpours, you should plan on encountering some muddy spots along the trail.
alltrails/Jacob Sechrest
This hike is rated moderate, but it's well worth the effort to see this well-maintained old church in the middle of the woods. As a bonus, there is an adjacent cemetery next to the church!
Google Maps/Sergy Siryk
Go ahead inside and explore — and ring the bell before you leave!
alltrails/Robert Dunn

The trailhead to the Little Cataloochee Baptist Church near Waynesville is located along the Old Cataloochee Turnpike in the Little Cataloochee Valley. Find your way to the parking area using this Google Map. Learn more about the trail and see more images at this link on alltrails.com.

Love exploring the Smoky Mountains? Go visit The One Town In North Carolina With Picture Perfect Views Of The Smoky Mountains.

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