Hiking with kids can be a challenge, but it’s definitely worth it to see them happy as they take in the scenery. In this Gatlinburg Vacation Guide, we’ve made a list of kid-friendly hikes in Gatlinburg that both kids and adults will enjoy.
Gatlinburg is home to some of the easiest family-friendly trails in the Smokies that also have the most breathtaking views of nature. From wildlife and amazing scenery of the mountains to historical sites, Gatlinburg has them for you.
Some of the best hikes in Gatlinburg are easy enough to take on by families with kids. Read more to learn more about our favorite kid-friendly hikes in Gatlinburg.
Can You Take a 3-Year-Old On a Hike?
A hike is a great way for a child to get some exercise and explore the outdoors. Make sure to choose a hike that is appropriate for your child’s age and abilities.
There are a few things to keep in mind when taking your 3-year-old on a hike, such as:
- Start with shorter, kid-friendly hikes and gradually work up to longer ones
- Make sure the child has comfortable hiking shoes and clothing
- Bring snacks and drinks for energy – check out this list of the best hydration packs for kids that we love!
- Pack a first aid kit in case of any scrapes or injuries
- Be prepared for some meltdowns – they’re bound to happen!
With a little planning and preparation, taking a 3-year-old on a hike can be a great way to spend time together and create some lasting memories.
Check out these kid-friendly hikes in Gatlinburg that are perfect for your tots!
Kid-Friendly Hikes in Gatlinburg
Laurel Falls Trail
Laurel Falls Trail is a popular kid-friendly hike in Gatlinburg that features a beautiful waterfall. The trail is rated as easy and suitable for families with young children. Bears are also active in this area, so it's best to prepare accordingly.
- Parking: Located on both sides of the road at the Trailhead
- Features: 80-foot Laurel Falls at the end of the trail
- Skill Level: Easy
- Length: 2.6 miles out and back
- Time to Hike: About 2 hours
- Stroller Friendly? YES( but it does have points that are narrow and bumpy)
Gatlinburg Trail
This trail is a very popular location not only for hiking but also for running and mountain biking. The trail is open all year round and is the only trail that is pet-friendly.
- Parking: Trail access begins at Traffic light 10 in town or the Sugarlands Visitor Center
- Features: Runs along the Little Pigeon River
- Skill Level: Easy
- Elevation Gain: 235m
- Length: 2.8 miles out and back (1.4 miles to Sugarlands Visitor Center)
- Time to Hike: 2 hours if hiking out and back
- Stroller & Wheelchair Friendly? YES
- Are Dogs Allowed? Yes but must be on a leash
Middle Prong Trail
This trail is an old railroad bed used by the Little River Lumber Company to haul logs. There are remains of the damage left by the loggers, nevertheless, it is still a beautiful trail. If you love wildflowers, there is a lot in bloom on this trail in the spring. Anemones, violets, and wild ginger are just some.
- Parking: From the Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont, take another 3.1 miles past the institute to the parking for the Middle Prong Trailhead
- Features: 3 cascading waterfalls/historic
- Skill Level: Easy
- Elevation Gain: 285 feet
- Length: 8.3 miles
- Time to Hike: 1-2 hours if hiking out and back
- Stroller Friendly? Yes (hard-packed dirt road)
You can read more about our experience on the Middle Prong Trail in the Seasonal Guide to Hiking in the Smokies.
Fighting Creek Nature Trail
Fighting Creek Nature Trail is a self-guided nature trail just behind Sugarlands Visitor Center. It is popular among families with small children as this trail is flat that would take you around a short loop with a view of the forests and a historic log cabin.
It's also for running, walking, and hiking. This trail is also well-known for black bear activity and can sometimes close when there are bears in the area.
- Parking: Sugarlands Visitor Center Parking A
- Features: Historic Log Cabin/ Wooded Forest famous in the Smokies
- Skill Level: Moderately Challenging
- Elevation Gain: 160 feet
- Length: 1.2 miles
- Time to Hike: 32 minutes
- Stroller Friendly? Yes
- Are Dogs Allowed? No
Walker Sisters Home Via Little Brier Gap Trail
This trail is excellent for beginners since its distance is relatively short with minimal elevation gain. Insider tip: there's an occasional appearance of black bears in the area.
- Parking: Next to the historic Little Greenbrier School
- Features: HistoricLal Buildings, Wildlife, and Seasonal Wildflowers, Walker Sisters Place in Five Sisters Cove
- Skill Level: Easy
- Elevation Gain: 285 feet
- Length: 2.6 miles
- Time to Hike: 1 hour round trip
- Stroller Friendly? No (path is rocky)
- Are Dogs Allowed? No
Fun & Cool Hiking Clothes
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Related Hiking Resources
MORE RELATED RESOURCES
Looking for more adventures that your children will love? Here are some of the best kid-friendly vacations in Tennessee that are worth a visit.
And don’t forget to bring this road trip activity pack from PhotoJeepers to keep the kids busy as you travel to your vacation destination.