When you want a memorable hiking experience in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, no one can beat the Chimney Tops hiking route.
The Chimney Tops Trailhead ticks all the right boxes, with stunning views, woodland climbs, and a rooftop look that leaves one dumbfounded no matter the time of year.
One of the most photogenic ridgelines and dramatic spires in the Smokies, the Chimney Tops is also one of the best-known hikes.
This hike is one of the best choices for visitors staying in Elk Hollow Resort – a rustic, nature-surrounded vacation spot in the midst of the mountains and only an hour and a half drive to Bryson City.
If you are a hiker, a romantic couple, or a family on vacation in the Smoky Mountains, we can bet it is going to be an unforgettable view and a photo to brag about on Instagram.
1. About Chimney Tops Trail
Do an out-and-back trail of 5.8 km around Gatlinburg, Tennessee. The route in general is considered a challenging one.
It is quite a common hiking area, and therefore chances of meeting other people are high during hiking. The ideal seasons to visit this trail are between March and November. You will have to leave the dogs at home as they are not allowed on this trail.
- It is probably one of the most popular hikes in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the whole of Tennessee!
- Though the climb is steep, the views at the top of the mountain are breathtaking, which justifies every step that was taken.
- When you park at the Chimney Tops parking lot, which is on the east side of Chimney Picnic Area along the Newfound Gap road, the trail gains elevation soon, but is mostly flat at the beginning.
- The first mile crosses the streaming Road Prong on bridges and by little spray waterfalls.
- At the point when the route changes to the west, you will reach a Road Prong Trail intersection.
- Here you can go down the path, through here are a pair of additional waterfalls and rendezvous with the Appalachian Trail along with the Indian Gap.
This path is straight ahead and keeps on climbing up along Chimney Tops Trail. It targets quite a steep hike, though the road is clear and in good shape.
On top is a newly constructed vista point that enables one to enjoy the awesome scenery of the Smoky Mountains, the Mountain LeConte, and the Sugarland Mountain.
Trail Information
| Distance | 5.8 km |
| Difficulty | Hard |
| Time to Reach | 2 to 3 hours |
| Elevation | 392 m |
| Dogs Allowed | No, dogs are not allowed here |
2. Getting to Chimney Tops Trailhead
The Chimney Tops Trailhead is easily accessible from Gatlinburg, Tennessee to Cherokee, North Carolina, along Newfound Gap Road (U.S. Highway 441), the primary scenic route that passes through Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
- It is conveniently accessible from both the North Carolina and Tennessee sides of the park due to its central placement.
- Take the I-40 Exit 407 and head on Highway 66 South, where you will take Highway 66 South to 441 S into Gatlinburg.
- On Newfound Gap Road (441 South), there are approximately 6.5 miles to the Sugarlands Visitors Center.
- The parking is on the right side of the road, and it has a sign for the trailhead.
You should not mix the Chimney Tops Picnic area with the trailhead.
Getting to Chimney Tops from Bryson City / Elk Hollow Resort
Go on U.S. 74 East to Cherokee (approximately 20 min)
- Take U.S. 441 North into the national park in the Great Smoky Mountains.
- Take Newfound Gap Road up about 22 miles.
- On your left, you will find the parking area of the Chimney Tops Trailhead.
Parking
The parking space is very minimal and gets filled up quickly, and more so during peak seasons such as spring break, summer weekends, and fall foliage season in October.
- Get there early (preferably at 8:00 am) to get a place.
- In case of a full lot make-up, parking on unmarked road shoulders with parking rules, which read No Parking, is subject to a ranger ticket charge
A little more roadside parking is permitted in the pull-offs, a brief way up the trailhead
When visiting during peak weekends or holidays, consider hiking early in the morning or late in the afternoon to secure parking.
Fees for Parking
As of March 2023, to hike Chimney Tops Trailhead, all visitors must have their parking tags placed on their vehicles and park in any area within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Parking Tag Price
| Tags | Price |
| Daily Tag | $5 |
| Weekly | $15 |
| Annual | $40 |
Note: Your car must have the parking tag with you, unless you are going to stay in the parking place for less than 15 minutes.
3. What to Expect on the Trai
Chimney Tops Trail is one of the most exciting and most picturesque short hikes in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. There is a lot to see in such a short trail; it is a steep trail with forests, cascading streams, and a spectacular viewpoint at the top.
1. Forested Ascent (First 1 Mile)
Starting in a thick hardwood forest and through rhododendron tunnels, you will be on your way. The path is easy at the beginning, and soon increases the altitude. There will be a gradual climb, with tree cover and full of bird calls, particularly during spring and summer.
2. Rivers Crossing & Timber Bridges
Shortly, you will come to two delightful footbridges to cross Walker Camp Prong and Road Prong (two mountain streams). These bridges are not only pretty to look at but also make a good rest in the hike. This refreshing mountainous feeling is achieved through the sound of water and a cool breeze.
3. Middle Section: Climbing Switchbacks & Rock Steps
The trail is steep after passing through the creeks. You will go through switchbacks, rock steps, and a couple of paths with roots. This section is a sort of moderate hiking up an uphill, and it will surely accelerate your heart rate. Balance and kneecap support may be achieved with trekking poles.
4. Final ascent to the Overlook (~0.25 miles)
The final section requires the most effort, with several sharp up-slope rock steps and ridgeline trails that are very narrow. The trail, however, has been rebuilt following the 2016 wildfire, and the current version has better erosion control, sets of stone steps, as well as safe stabilized sections that ascend to the newly created summit overlook.
4. Travel Tips for Chimney Tops Hikers
The Chimney Tops Trail is not very long; nevertheless, it is a steep, rugged trail, so it is important to come prepared.
These travel tips include what to pack, weather consciousness, and Leave No Trace guidelines, therefore making the hike pleasurable.
Best Time to Visit Chimney Tops Overlook
Chimney Tops can be visited year-round, but the best times are definitely in spring and fall.
- Spring (April-May): In spring, the area surrounding the falls comes to life with a vibrant green landscape, and wildlife is on the move. Indeed, the temperatures are nice, which makes hiking more enjoyable.
- Fall (September-November): The vibrant autumn foliage makes fall one of the most picturesque times to visit. Cool, crisp air and golden-red leaves make for the best experience. Fall means fewer crowds compared to summer, making for a serene visit.
What to Pack
So here are some essentials you should pack to enjoy your visit.
- Raingear: Have a rain jacket or poncho on you at all times in the Smokies.
- Water Bottle: Especially in the warmer months, make sure you stay hydrated as you trek around.
- Extra Clothes: Cotton is not the best during cold weather or high altitude. Bring something warm when wet, like wool or synthetic brown (fleece).
- Map: There are a number of maps available of the park trails. It is a good idea to carry one with you in your pack.
- Food: Take energy bars, snacks, and food.
- Flashlight: A nice flashlight or head lamp is appreciated when you get out on the trail at night.
- Matches: Waterproof matches are most preferable.
- Whistle: Bring a whistle, use that to signal rescuers in case of being lost. Every child is supposed to have one.
- Good Hiking Shoes: The trail is easy to moderate, but it always helps to have good shoes for a nice hike.
- Camera: For taking photos of the beautiful waterfall and the surroundings.
- Bug spray: Must have in the summer to keep mosquitoes and pests away.
Safety Tips
Although Chimney Tops is an amazing visit and very accessible, it is always a good idea to practice safety tips for a safe visit
- Be Careful Near the Falls: Rocks near the waterfall can be slick, so please be careful when stepping close to the water.
- Check the Weather: Even if you observe a clear sky, rain can come suddenly and make the trail muddy and difficult to navigate. Always check the forecast before you set out.
- Stick to the Trail/Path: Leaving the designated path may be unsafe and harm the environment.
- Respect Nature: Always view nature and wildlife from a distance, and do not feed them.
5. Stay at Elk Hollow Resort – Your Base for Smoky Mountain Adventures
Want to combine your hiking adventure and the low-key cabin living? Elk Hollow Resort is a tranquil, homely, and well-located home of Smoky Mountain adventurers located in Bryson City.
Why would you choose to stay in Elk Hollow Resort?
- A little less than an hour’s drive to Chimney Tops Trailhead.
- Has a family cabin, a couple’s suite, and exclusive retreats.
- Located in the forest and with peaceful scenery, outdoor fire pits, and hot tubs.
- Within a few minutes of the restaurants and shops in downtown Bryson City.
- Open access to other Smoky Mountain hikes, waterfalls, and views by road, which is convenient when you have time to view waterfalls, scenic drives, as well as other hikes.
Once a long hike is done, it is time to sit around the campfire and make marshmallows or just relax in the hot tub with stars filling the sky. It is an adventure that fulfills your wilderness trip.
6. Suggested Chimney Tops Day Itinerary
This is how you need to make the best of your day:
Morning
7.30 am: Breakfast packed and daypacks, leave Elk Hollow Resort.
8.45 am: Reach Chimney Tops Trailhead, park car, and set of hike.
9:00-11:00 am: Trek to the peak, take pictures, rest at the viewpoint.
Afternoon
Picnic lunch at noon: Go by car to Newfound Gap Overlook to have a picnic
1.30 pm: optional short stop at Clingmans Dome or Mingus Mill.
3:00 pm: Kick back to Bryson City
Evening
5:00 pm: Return to Elk Hollow Resort
6:00 pm: Time to have dinner in town or cook in your cabin
7:30 pm: Converse or de-stress in the firepit or hot-tub, staring at the stars
Conclusion | Chimney Tops Trailhead
Chimney Tops Trailhead is not just a trail; it is a challenge, a view, and a memory in a nutshell.
It has forested trails, wildflowers, and running creeks, with a panoramic view of mountains, and thus rightly continues to boast of being among the best trails to follow in the Smokies.
Go the extra mile and make your visit even more special by staying at the Elk Hollow Resort, where comfort and convenience are united.
Located no more than a half an hour drive to Chimney Tops and other best spots, it becomes the ideal location to take a day hike, drive along the scenic route, and unwind by spending evenings in the woods.
Plan your stay with Elk Hollow Resort now and wake up like you are ready to visit Chimney Tops and other places!
FAQs| Chimney Tops Trailhead
1. What is the Chimney Tops Trailhead?
Chimney Tops Trailhead is a popular hiking trail in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park near Gatlinburg, TN. Known for its steep climbs, forested terrain, and breathtaking summit views, it offers a 5.8 km out-and-back experience with a scenic overlook at the top.
2. How difficult is the Chimney Tops Trail?
The trail is considered hard due to its steep incline and rocky steps, especially in the last quarter-mile. However, it’s manageable for fit hikers and offers rewarding views at the summit.
3. How long does it take to complete the hike?
On average, it takes 2 to 3 hours to complete the 5.8 km round-trip trail, depending on your pace and the number of breaks you take.
4. When is the best time to hike Chimney Tops?
The best seasons to visit are spring (April–May) for wildflowers and fall (September–November) for colorful foliage and cooler temperatures. These times offer the most scenic beauty and manageable trail conditions.
5. Are dogs allowed on the Chimney Tops Trail?
No, dogs are not allowed on this trail as per Great Smoky Mountains National Park regulations.
6. Where is Chimney Tops Trailhead located?
The trailhead is located along Newfound Gap Road (US 441), about 6.5 miles south of the Sugarlands Visitor Center in Gatlinburg, TN. It’s accessible from both the Tennessee and North Carolina sides of the park.
7. Do I need a parking permit to hike the trail?
Yes. As of March 2023, all visitors parking in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park must display a valid parking tag.
- Daily: $5
- Weekly: $15
- Annual: $40
Vehicles parked for less than 15 minutes are exempt.
8. What should I pack for the hike?
Essential items to pack include:
- Water & snacks
- Rain jacket or poncho
- Flashlight or headlamp
- Sturdy hiking shoes
- Bug spray & sunscreen
- Camera & binoculars
- Layers or warm clothes (the weather can change quickly)
9. Is Chimney Tops suitable for kids or beginners?
The trail is steep and considered challenging, so it’s best for experienced hikers or older kids with hiking experience. Families with younger children may want to try easier trails nearby, like Laurel Falls.
10. Where can I stay near Chimney Tops Trailhead?
Elk Hollow Resort in Bryson City is an excellent nearby option. It’s a cozy, nature-immersed property with family cabins, couple-friendly suites, fire pits, and hot tubs—located just under an hour from the trailhead.
