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What You Need for the Ultimate Fall Hiking Trip

fall hiking trip

Novice and experienced hikers alike embark on Smoky Mountain trails every year. Why? There are Smoky Mountain trails for all experience levels, making it an excellent vacation for everyone involved. Today, we will explore some of the most beautiful hiking trails in the Smoky Mountains while also providing you with a helpful list of what items you should pack for your hike.

Clingmans Dome

Clingmans Dome is one of the must-do hiking trails in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park. This trail features the highest point in the park, which makes it the most popular spot for visitors. The walk to the observation tower at the top is just one-mile roundtrip, so it is doable for just about every hiker, experienced or inexperienced. 

Cades Cove Loop

The Cades Cove Loop is a breathtaking venture. If you want, they do permit visitors to drive the loop. However, driving pales in comparison to the beauty of walking this loop. Alternatively, you can ride your bike along the 11-mile loop. Moving at a slower pace will allow you to see the abundant wildlife and historic buildings scattered along the way.

Thunderhead Mountain and Rocky Top

Other Smoky Mountain attractions include Thunderhead Mountain and Rocky Top. Rocky Top is one of the more challenging hiking trails you can traverse in Tennessee, but ascending to the precipice makes it all worth it. When you reach the summit, you will be able to see Maryville, Townsend, Cades Cove, and Fontana Lake.

Porters Creek

fall hiking tripPorters Creek has just about everything you could want in a hike, especially if you love history. You will encounter some of the remnants of the first settlers of this area and stumble upon a waterfall at one point. This trail is over two miles long, and it features some of the most beautiful scenery you will find in the region.

What to Pack

As you plan your ultimate fall hiking trip to the Pigeon Forge area along the Smoky Mountains, you need to pack the right items. Here are some great packing recommendations for your hiking trip:

  • Rain gear
  • Water
  • Backpack
  • Hat
  • Extra pair of socks and shoes
  • Fleece
  • Trail map
  • Blanket
  • Waterproof matches
  • Compass
  • Storm whistle
  • First aid kit
  • Sunscreen
  • Bug repellent
  • Money and your ID
  • Flashlight with extra batteries
  • Pocket knife
  • Emergency bivvy sac
  • High-energy snacks

You can purchase many of these items at stores in and around the Smoky Mountains, so you don’t have to worry about packing all of them in your luggage from home.

Book Your Pigeon Forge Hiking Trip Today

Pigeon Forge sits along the Smoky Mountains, making it an attractive destination for thousands of visitors every year, especially those who enjoy going for a hike. Some of the best Smoky Mountain sites are easily accessible from your cabin. Call the Parkside Resort office at (865) 908-6066 to rent your cabin today. If you enjoy hiking, you need to traverse the Smoky Mountains in Tennessee as soon as possible. Otherwise, you are missing out on a fantastic set of trails and experiences for you and your whole family.