Out of all the best places to vacation in Tennessee and the unique things you can do there, I’m pretty sure that hiking with llamas in TN takes the cake. In this Tennessee Vacation Guide, we’ll tell you why llamas can make the perfect hiking partner and where are the best places to go hiking with them!
These charming animals are sure to put a smile on everyone’s face, and they can carry up to 30% of their body weight so they can totally carry your stuff, ensuring you a comfortable hike.
Not everyone gets to have this unique experience, so if you’re ready to get relaxed by these wooly-haired creatures, keep on reading to learn where you can go hiking with llamas in TN.
Where Can I See Llamas in The Smoky Mountains?
Llamas have been used for centuries in the Andes Mountains for their ability to transport heavy loads through difficult terrain.
In recent years, llamas have become popular as pack animals in the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee and North Carolina.
Tourists and locals gush over these llamas because of their cute appearance, and it has become a popular tourist attraction in the Smoky Mountains.
If you’re looking for some adventure with llamas, check these out!
- Trillium Gap Trail– For years, llamas have been taking this trail to bring supplies to Mount LeConte Lodge. The llamas usually gather at the trail at 6-6:30 am and start traveling at 7:30 am every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. They travel to the remote lodge and get their reward at the end of the 14-mile-long journey– pancakes!
- Llama Farm Visit at the Smoky Mountain Llama Treks– If you’re not a hiker, then this activity is perfect for you. You’ll get to pet them, feed them, learn their names, and even their personalities in an hour! Ticket price is $20 for ages 17+, $14 for ages 4-16, and children 3 and under are free!
- The Great Llama Race– Watch llamas race for a cause in this excellent llama race held every fall at Knoxville’s World’s Fair Park. There will be costume contests, parades, and whatnot so you can guarantee that this will be a fun-filled event! All proceeds of the race will go to different organizations. Admission is $5 (children 5 and under are free).
Ready to go hiking with llamas in TN? Check these out!
Hiking With Llamas in Tennessee
Smoky Mountain Llama Treks in Cosby, TN provides an opportunity to explore the Great Smoky Mountains while hiking with llamas by your side. Their llamas are gentle and sure-footed, making them the perfect hiking companions for hikers of all ages (should be at least 5) and abilities.
You get to pet them before going on a hike with your new llama friend.
- Admission: $55 for Ages 13+, $45 for Ages 5-12
The Moonshine Trail is a longer hike than the Padgett Mill trek and more challenging. It's not difficult, but there are some elevation changes and it gets it's name from the old moonshine still operations that you pass by. The trial also passes a few small creeks (if it has been particularly rainy) and a pond with fish, turtles, salamander, frogs and the like.
The Wandering Llamas in Greeneville, TN offer scheduled llama treks for groups of all ages throughout the year. It won't always be on the same trail as they choose different trails for different hikes, sometimes depending on the weather and the guest's hiking ability.
2-Hour Llama Trek on Trail: $79 +tax/person- Usually starts noon but is weather dependent
- Age Limit: 7-70 years old
- Dogs are allowed with restrictions
- Not a wilderness hike
- Done in October thru April as it can be very hot in the summer
- Age limit: 7-70 years old.
- Hike on a wilderness trail with your llama buddy then
- Visit the female llamas and their newborn babies
- There will be a gourmet cheese charcuterie board that you can eat at the gazebo with a view of Viking Mountain & Black Stack Cliffs
- Glassware is provided
Fun & Cool Hiking Clothes
Download This FREE Winter Packing List for The Smokies
Related Hiking Resources
MORE RELATED RESOURCES
Hiking, even with the cutest llamas, can be exhausting so be sure not to forget to bring water for yourself and especially for the kids. Check out our top picks for the best hydration packs for kids to keep you hydrated throughout.
If you’re craving a different vacation scene, then you should take a look at PhotoJeepers’ list of southwest national parks that will take your breath away just the same.
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