Chimney Tops Trail Trailhead

The Chimney Tops Trail Trailhead marks the beginning of one of the Great Smoky Mountains' most iconic hikes, located just 7 miles from downtown Gatlinburg. This challenging 4-mile round-trip trail climbs over 1,400 feet in elevation through old-growth forest before reaching its dramatic pinnacle views.

The trail starts at a well-maintained parking area along Newfound Gap Road and immediately crosses Walker Camp Prong via footbridge. As you ascend, you'll encounter a mix of terrain including stone steps, dirt paths, and exposed rock faces. The first mile offers a moderate climb through dense forest, while the second mile intensifies significantly with steep switchbacks.

What makes this hiking area distinct is its final quarter-mile scramble to the summit, where experienced hikers can navigate exposed rock formations to reach panoramic views of Mount LeConte and the surrounding peaks. The trail is particularly stunning during fall foliage season and on clear winter days.

The trailhead parking lot opens daily at sunrise and closes at sunset. There's no fee to hike, but you'll need to display a valid Great Smoky Mountains National Park parking tag. Plan for at least 3-4 hours to complete the hike, and bring plenty of water - the steady elevation gain makes this one of the more strenuous trails in the park.

Best visited during dry conditions, as rocks become extremely slippery when wet. The trail can be busy during peak seasons, so arriving early (before 9 AM) or during weekdays helps avoid crowds. Proper hiking boots and trekking poles are strongly recommended for the steep sections.