Chimney Tops Trail
A challenging, rewarding hike in the Smokies with stunning panoramic views, famous for its steep stairs and beautiful forest.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Chimney Tops Trail
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A challenging, rewarding hike in the Smokies with stunning panoramic views, famous for its steep stairs and beautiful forest.
"This is a great hike with an amazing view at the top for a reward."
👟 Wear Sturdy Hiking Boots
Essential for the steep, uneven terrain and numerous stairs.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
The strenuous climb requires ample hydration. Don't underestimate the elevation gain!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Smoky Mountain Vistas
Summit
Breathtaking, sweeping views of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. A true reward for your efforts.
The Stairway to Heaven
Throughout the trail
Hundreds of stone and log stairs create a unique and demanding challenge, testing your endurance.
+1
Rushing Streams & Footbridges
Lower sections of the trail
Enjoy the serene beauty of water features and charming bridges as you begin your ascent.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Conquer the Climb: Prepare for Stairs!
+2Summit Access & Park Alerts
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Hiking Boots
Essential for the steep, uneven terrain and numerous stairs. +1
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
The strenuous climb requires ample hydration. Don't underestimate the elevation gain!
📱 Charge Your Phone
For photos and safety, ensure your device is fully charged.
🐻 Be Bear Aware
This is bear country; store food properly and be vigilant.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Hiking Boots
Essential for the steep, uneven terrain and numerous stairs. +1
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
The strenuous climb requires ample hydration. Don't underestimate the elevation gain!
📱 Charge Your Phone
For photos and safety, ensure your device is fully charged.
🐻 Be Bear Aware
This is bear country; store food properly and be vigilant.
⬆️ Drive for More Views
After the hike, continue driving up the mountain for additional scenic overlooks.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Chimney Tops Trail for its rewarding, spectacular summit views and well-maintained path, despite its challenging, stair-heavy ascent. Some note the final rock scramble is closed, but the existing viewpoints are still highly recommended. The trail's difficulty is a common theme, with many advising proper preparation.
"This is a great hike with an amazing view at the top for a reward. This is considered pretty difficult and there are a lot of steps (stone) on the way to the top. It is very steep as well. There is a platform at the top to take a break or have lunch, etc. I would highly recommend."
Gary Keene
"Well maintained trail and glorious views along the way. Not too busy either. Will be greeted by a few bridge crossings over rapids. Then long steep stairs and peaceful streams. Then open views of the mountains and finally the chimney. FYI, the trail to the rock formation is closed and overgrown and not well maintained but there's a nice view of it at the top."
Kenny Chian
"Good looking trail. Crowded at prime times. Some steep parts. Good views along the way."
Gideon Maxim
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Chimney Tops Trailhead is located off Newfound Gap Road (US-441) in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It's a popular spot, so parking can be challenging, especially during peak times.
Yes, there is a parking area at the Chimney Tops Trailhead, but it fills up quickly. Arrive early, especially on weekends and holidays, or consider visiting on a weekday.
Yes, Chimney Tops Trail is accessible from Gatlinburg. You'll drive up Newfound Gap Road into the national park to reach the trailhead.
Driving your own vehicle is the most common and convenient way to reach the Chimney Tops Trailhead. Public transportation is not available within the national park.
Currently, there are no official shuttle services directly to the Chimney Tops Trailhead within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Great Smoky Mountains National Park does not charge an entrance fee. However, a parking tag is required for any vehicle parked for more than 15 minutes within the park.
The trail is generally open during daylight hours, but always check the official Great Smoky Mountains National Park website for any temporary closures or alerts.
There is no specific admission fee for the Chimney Tops Trail itself, as it's part of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which is free to enter. However, a parking tag is required.
Hiking at night is generally discouraged in national parks due to safety concerns and potential wildlife encounters. Stick to daylight hours for your hike.
No specific passes are needed for the trail itself, but a parking tag is required for your vehicle if you plan to park for more than 15 minutes within the park.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The Chimney Tops Trail is considered strenuous and difficult due to its steep incline and numerous stairs. It gains about 1,400 feet in elevation in under 2 miles.
The Chimney Tops Trail is approximately 3.5 to 4 miles roundtrip, depending on the exact starting point and how you measure.
You'll be rewarded with spectacular panoramic views of the Great Smoky Mountains. The summit offers a stunning reward for the challenging hike.
The final scramble to the actual rock formations at the summit is currently closed and overgrown due to fire damage and is not maintained. However, there are excellent views from the designated viewing area near the top.
Restroom facilities are typically available at the Chimney Tops Trailhead, but it's always a good idea to confirm with the park service for the most up-to-date information.
🎫 🐻 Wildlife & Safety
Yes, black bears are common in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, including on the Chimney Tops Trail. Always maintain a safe distance and never feed them.
Be prepared for a strenuous hike, carry plenty of water, wear appropriate footwear, and be aware of your surroundings. Inform someone of your hiking plans.
While many solo hikers enjoy the trail, it's always recommended to hike with a buddy if possible, especially on more challenging trails. Be aware of park alerts.
If you see a bear, stay calm, do not approach it, and slowly back away. Make noise to let the bear know you are there.
Due to its strenuous nature and steep stairs, this trail is best suited for older children who are experienced hikers. Younger children may find it too challenging.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 If your family enjoys a good physical challenge and breathtaking views, it can be a rewarding experience. Ensure everyone has sturdy footwear and plenty of water. Consider the closed summit as well; while the views are still great, the ultimate goal of reaching the very top rocks is not currently possible. For families with younger children or those seeking a less intense experience, exploring other trails in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park might be a better option.
💰 Budget Travelers
While you'll need to bring your own water and snacks, avoiding the cost of park admission and expensive tours makes this a fantastic value. The challenging hike itself is the main attraction, offering incredible views without a hefty price tag.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 The panoramic views at the top are particularly spectacular, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset, though access might be limited by park hours. Remember to charge your phone or camera before you go, as you'll want to capture the beauty of the trail and the surrounding landscape.
While the final rock scramble is closed, the designated viewing areas still provide excellent vantage points for capturing the grandeur of the Smokies. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Stair Challenge: A Unique Ascent
+2While the mileage might seem moderate (around 3.5-4 miles roundtrip), the steep elevation gain of nearly 1,500 feet in less than two miles means you'll be working hard from the start. The trail is well-maintained in its lower sections, featuring picturesque footbridges over rushing streams, but the climb intensifies as you progress.
+1Trekking poles are highly recommended by many hikers to help with stability and reduce strain on your knees, especially during the descent. Proper footwear with good grip is non-negotiable for navigating these challenging steps safely.
Summit Views and Trail Closures
It's important to note that the final ascent to the actual rock formations, the 'chimneys' themselves, is currently closed and not maintained due to fire damage.
Even with the summit closure, the journey offers beautiful scenery, including charming streams and bridges in the lower sections. Many visitors also suggest continuing to drive up Newfound Gap Road after the hike for additional scenic overlooks.
Preparing for the Hike: What to Bring
Footwear is another critical element. Sturdy hiking boots with excellent traction are a must to navigate the steep, often slippery, stairs and rocky terrain. Many hikers also find trekking poles invaluable for providing support and reducing impact on joints during both the ascent and descent.
Beyond water and appropriate shoes, consider bringing snacks to maintain energy levels. It's also wise to charge your phone fully for navigation, photos, and in case of emergencies.
+1 Remember to check the weather forecast and dress in layers, as conditions can change in the mountains. 
Social
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