Chimney Tops Trail Trailhead - Hiking area in Gatlinburg
TSM PickHiking area

Chimney Tops Trail Trailhead

GatlinburgGatlinburg TN 37738
9.6
Exceptional

Best For

Experienced hikers seeking challenging terrain with rewarding views • Photography enthusiasts looking for panoramic mountain scenery • Visitors seeking one of the most popular and iconic hikes in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Pro Tip

Bring trekking poles for knee support and stability on steep sections, and plan your hike for later in the day to avoid fog obscuring the summit views

About Chimney Tops Trail Trailhead

Trailhead for a steep 4-mi. Smoky Mountain hiking route over streams & ridges with dramatic vistas.

Amenities & Features

Beautiful river views early on with huge boulders and small waterfallsLong, steep, well-maintained stairway system through consistent elevation gainRewarding summit views that make the challenging climb worthwhileSpectacular fall colors and atmospheric hiking in misty conditions

Visitor Sentiment

Based on reviews

Chimney Tops Trail Trailhead receives consistently positive feedback from visitors. Located in Gatlinburg, it's a solid choice for the area.

Best Times to Visit Chimney Tops Trail Trailhead

Visit during weekday mornings for the calmest experience.

🔥Buzzing
Weekend afternoons
☀️Relaxed
Weekday mornings

Tags

Top RatedHighly Reviewed

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the hours for Chimney Tops Trail Trailhead?

Check our opening hours section for current times. Hours may vary seasonally.

Is Chimney Tops Trail Trailhead family-friendly?

Yes, Chimney Tops Trail Trailhead welcomes visitors of all ages. It's a popular destination for families visiting Gatlinburg.

How do I get to Chimney Tops Trail Trailhead?

Chimney Tops Trail Trailhead is located at Gatlinburg TN 37738. Use the directions button for navigation.

How long should I plan to spend?

Most visitors spend 1-3 hours at Chimney Tops Trail Trailhead. Allow extra time during peak seasons.

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TSM Verified
9.6/10

We use a weighted 10-point scoring system to evaluate the best places to visit and things to do in the Smokies.

Scoring is carefully evaluated based on reviews, social signals and expert assessments.

Quality
9.57
👤Service
9.67
🏛️Value
9.58
💰Vibe
9.38
Public Review Sentiment
Based on 714 Reviews

Chimney Tops Trail Trailhead receives consistently positive feedback from visitors. Located in Gatlinburg, it's a solid choice for the area.

Last Updated Dec 27, 2025

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