Epic Day Hike Adventure in the Great Smoky Mountains

Day 1: Hiking Adventure

Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee, USA

7:00AM

Breakfast at Snack Shack

Kick off your hiking adventure with a hearty breakfast at Snack Shack, known for their incredible breakfast burritos and fresh fruit smoothies.
Located just outside the park entrance, it's a quick stop on your way in.
USD15, 1 hour

8:00AM

Hiking to Clingmans Dome

Start your hike to Clingmans Dome, the highest point in the Smokies, on the Clingmans Dome Trail which offers stunning views along the way.
Follow the Clingmans Dome Road to the trailhead; the hike is a 1-mile paved trail leading to an observation tower.
USD0, 2 hours

10:00AM

Summit at Clingmans Dome

Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and take plenty of photos at the observation tower.
Spend some time here before you start heading back down.
USD0, 1 hour

11:00AM

Return Hike to Parking Area

Make your way back down the trail, soaking in the beauty of the landscape as you descend.
Retrace your steps to the Clingmans Dome trailhead.
USD0, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at the Picnic Area

Pack a delightful lunch and enjoy a picnic in one of the designated picnic areas surrounded by nature.
Find a shady spot near one of the park’s picnic areas which are conveniently located throughout the park.
USD10, 1 hour

1:00PM

Explore Laurel Falls Trail

After lunch, take a relaxing hike to Laurel Falls, an easy 2.6-mile round trip that features beautiful waterfalls.
Head to the Laurel Falls Trailhead off of Little River Road; it's a well-marked and popular trail.
USD0, 2 hours

3:00PM

Enjoy the Waterfalls

Spend time at the falls, taking beautiful photos and enjoying the cool mist on your face.
The falls are just a short walk from the main viewpoint.
USD0, 30 minutes

3:30PM

Return Trail

Hike back to the trailhead from Laurel Falls, ensuring to take your time to appreciate the scenic surroundings.
Follow the same path back to the starting point.
USD0, 30 minutes

4:00PM

Visit the Sugarlands Visitor Center

Stop by the Sugarlands Visitor Center to learn more about the park, view exhibits, and purchase souvenirs.
It's located just outside Gatlinburg at the entrance to the park.
USD0, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at The Park Grill

End your hiking adventure with a delicious dinner at The Park Grill, known for its wood-grilled steaks and hearty mountain fare.
Located near Gatlinburg, it's a short drive from the park entrance.
USD30, 1.5 hours
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