Hickory Flats Quiet Walkway Trailhead

Duration

30-60 minutes

Price

Free admission

Best For

Nature Lovers • Families • Solo Travelers

Pro Tip

Check the Great Smoky Mountains National Park website for temporary trail closures before you go, as this lesser-known trailhead is often the first to close due to weather or maintenance.

About Hickory Flats Quiet Walkway Trailhead

This short, steep trail surprises hikers with a historic cemetery at its summit—a hidden gem that most visitors didn't expect to find. The half-mile path is more challenging than it initially appears, with rocky steps and occasional muddy, washed-out sections that bump it up to moderate difficulty. While it's not the most spectacular hike in the Smokies, it's a worthwhile side trip if you're exploring Cades Cove, offering a quiet mix of nature and local history.

Amenities & Features

Historic cemetery at the hilltop with weathered stone markers and a few legible tombstonesShort trail (approximately half-mile) with three splitting paths, two of which loop backIntimate, narrowing trail with fallen logs and natural rock steps creating an adventurous feelPeaceful escape with beautiful landscape and forested scenery

Don't Miss

Historic Cemetery

Discover a hidden historic cemetery at the hilltop, featuring weathered stone markers and a glimpse into the area's past.

Short, Challenging Hike

Enjoy a moderately difficult half-mile hike with rocky steps and natural obstacles, offering a quick but rewarding outdoor experience.

Peaceful Forested Scenery

Escape into a quiet and beautiful landscape with intimate, narrowing trails surrounded by lush forested scenery.

Know Before You Go

The trail can be muddy or washed-out in places, so wear appropriate footwear.
The trail is steep and rocky, requiring a moderate level of fitness.

Visitor Sentiment

Based on reviews

Hickory Flats Quiet Walkway Trailhead receives consistently positive feedback from visitors. Located in Sevierville, it's a solid choice for the area.

Hickory Flats Quiet Walkway Trailhead Opening Hours

Monday8 AM to 4:30 PM

Tuesday8 AM to 4:30 PM

Wednesday8 AM to 4:30 PM

Thursday8 AM to 4:30 PM

Friday8 AM to 4:30 PM

SaturdayClosed

SundayClosed

Best Times to Visit Hickory Flats Quiet Walkway Trailhead

Visit during weekday mornings for the calmest experience.

🔥Buzzing

Weekend afternoons

☀️Relaxed

Weekday mornings

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Hickory Flats Quiet Walkway Trailhead unique?

This trail offers a short, moderately challenging hike leading to a historic cemetery at the summit, providing a blend of natural beauty and local history that many visitors find surprisingly rewarding.

When is the Hickory Flats Quiet Walkway Trailhead open?

The trail is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM. It is closed on Saturdays and Sundays.

How difficult is the hike to the cemetery?

The half-mile trail is considered moderately challenging due to its steep incline, rocky steps, and occasional muddy or washed-out sections.

Is the trail maintained by the National Park Service?

While the website mentions nps.gov, it's best to check the official National Park Service website for the most up-to-date information on trail maintenance and conditions.