These Hiking Spots In The Great Smoky Mountains Were The First To Be Opened To The Public

There’s nothing more beautiful or welcoming than a day spent amidst the beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains. As Tennessee begins to slowly reopen after a series of COVID-19 related closures, folks are making their way out to the natural wonders of the state’s mountainous regions. Not all hiking trails are open, however, so make sure you keep an eye out for updates. The three we’ve noted below are a handful of the first to welcome hikers back into the fold, and we highly encourage you to experience them for yourself. The open hiking trails in Tennessee are well worth an afternoon spent.

Geoff Livingston - Flickr

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park has slowly begun to reopen after the spring 2020 peak of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although a large number of the most popular trails remain closed, the park has reopened a series of lesser-trafficked trails to the public.

Tyler Ott - AllTrails

You can reach Porters Creek by way of Greenbrier Cove in the Smokies. Plan on 4 miles in the wilderness! The trail is mainly flat and does not have a large incline.

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Christina Zukas - AllTrails

It's a great hike for families especially since the trek isn't wildly difficult and there are old barns and homesteads along the trail. Porters Creek makes for a nature and history lesson!

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Tim Lumley - Flickr

Plan on 5 miles of hiking if you're looking to traverse the entirety of Abrams Falls Trail. Although the falls are only 20 feet high, they're still a stunning sight. The natural pool beneath it is a popular swimming hole, but keep in mind that the park discourages a dip in the water. There aren't any lifeguards or rangers on-site, so swimming is at your own risk.

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Nature's Papparazzi - Flickr

The hike takes you through the stunning mountain country of East Tennessee and is rated as moderately difficult.

Whitney - Flickr

Charlie's Bunion is an 8-mile-long round-trip hiking trail that can be accessed by the Newfound Gap parking lot. It's known for its incredible views and natural rock formations.

Whitney - Flickr

You'll want to be incredibly careful while traversing the Charlie's Bunion hiking trail. Although the end view is stunning, there is a stretch of trail that is narrow. Keep a close eye on your friends and get ready for adventure, because Charlie's Bunion provides quite the experience!

Daniel Arndt - AllTrails

Hiking Mt. Cammerer is quite the feat! At a roundtrip length of 11 miles in total, it's one of the most isolated and beautiful trails in the park. Be prepared for a steep incline with crazy beautiful views!

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Daniel Arndt - AllTrails

Although not for the faint of heart, and perhaps not the best choice for kids, Mt. Cammerer will give you the challenging experience you're looking for post-quarantine.

You can learn more about social distancing measures and open hiking trails in Tennessee right here. Stay safe and healthy out there, folks. Happy hiking!

You can experience more of Tennessee’s grand and great natural beauty with a visit to this remote forest that’s tucked away on the eastern side of the state.