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Hike the Chimney Tops

Gatlinburg, Tennessee

4.9/5
based on 22 reviews

Details

Distance

4.03 miles

Elevation Gain

1487 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Mason Boring

Scramble to the top of the peak for great summit views on this short and steep, but fun hike in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

The Chimney Tops Trail is one of the most visited trails in the Smokies, which is why I recommend going up just before sunset to beat the crowd!

During the summer and fall months, it's common to see a hundred people taking in the views on the same trail, but if you scramble on out after hours, you can easily find yourself alone just in time to catch the sunset. Get to the trailhead an hour and a half or two hours before sunset to give yourself plenty of time to explore in the daylight.

Be very cautious on the out scramble. This isn't recommended for beginners. All who do this hike won't regret the solitude or the view.

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Features

Photography
Hiking
Forest
Scenic
Wildflowers
Wildlife
Swimming Hole

Hike the Chimney Tops Reviews

This is not a good trail if you have any fear of heights. To get to the top where the view is, you have to scramble up rocks. It feels very sketchy. Once you get to the top, there is a big area to hang out, relax, picnic, etc.

I've made this hike twice, and it's nothing short of spectacular! Very dangerous at the end to get on the very top, but many little kids were doing it.

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

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Camp out at Mt. LeConte Lodge via Alum Cave

Appalachian Trail: Charlie's Bunion and Kephart Loop

Quilliam Cave via Courthouse Rock Trail

Photograph the Smokies from Morton Overlook

Mount LeConte-Cliff Tops via Rainbow Falls Trail