The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is filled with trails that are perfect for hikers and guests of all levels of experience. During your stay with us at the Oak Tree Lodge we would love for you to take time to go outside and play among the beauty of the mountains that we call home. We’ve put together 4 hikes to get you started, 2 of which are perfect for guests travelling with their favorite canine companion!
Rainbow Falls Trail
Located in the Roaring Fork area of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park the Rainbow Falls Trail is one of the most popular trails in the park. The trailhead location being near Gatlinburg helps with its popularity however it is the trail’s undeniable beauty that keeps the attention of those that wander into that section of the woods. A recent rehabilitation to the trail by the Trails Forever Crew and Friends of the Smokies has also made the trail even more enjoyable for visitors. The hike is a 5.4 mile round-trip adventure for those seeking to see the main waterfall, Rainbow Falls, but hikers looking for a more challenging hike can take the trail all the way up to Mount LeConte and finishing the day with 13.2 miles under their feet. The parking area for the trail is accessible year-around and is an excellent way to escape the hustle and bustle of town during all seasons. The next time you’re in the Smokies, take a trek up to the park’s highest single drop waterfall and see if you can pull off getting yourself and the 80-foot drop of water in the same picture!
Porters Creek Trail
Guests looking for a moderate hike that is filled with everything from history to wildflowers and waterfalls will enjoy time on the Porters Creek Trail. The hike up Porters Creek offers numerous opportunities to relax by a tranquil Smokies stream as well as time to explore historical structures. The trail is home to a couple of old farmsteads, the Ownby cemetery and the Smoky Mountain Hiking Club cabin that was built in the 1930’s. After 2 miles of exploring, you’ll reach Fern Branch Falls, a 60-foot waterfall that drops off the ride and is surrounded by lush green moss. Once hikers are finished viewing the waterfall they can return to the parking area or continue on the trail for another 1.7 miles to reach backcountry campsite 31. If you’re visiting the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in early spring, be sure to add this trail to your wildflower hunting sessions! Porters Creek becomes a wildflower wonderland during that time and is a sight that you won’t want to miss!
Gatlinburg Trail
The Gatlinburg Trail is a great choice for everyone but it’s especially good for first time park guests and guests travelling with their dogs. This is the only trail on the Tennessee side of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park that dogs are allowed to be on. Bicycles are also permitted on the Gatlinburg Trail. Time on the trail will be spent winding through the forest and along the river as well as passing by several historical homesites. If you’re looking for a nice stroll with the family or a walk with your sweetheart after dining in Gatlinburg, then you’ll enjoy taking time to explore this simple but beautiful trail!
Seven Islands State Birding Park
If you’re staying in one of Our Pet-Friendly Rooms then you may be interested in this little Tennessee gem that is not a part of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park but is still less than 30 minutes away from our hotel in Sevierville! The Seven Islands State Birding Park is dog friendly, includes multiple trails and it’s an absolutely beautiful place to explore! Guests without pets will enjoy time along the trails there as well! The park is located along the French Broad River, is made up of 416 acres and is a popular destination to 190 species of birds. Guests will enjoy picnicking, exploring an old farmhouse and barns, crossing over recently installed bridges to discover the beauty of the islands and spotting wildflowers and butterflies during the warmer months. Paddlers and anglers will also enjoy time on the French Broad!
Are you ready to start exploring?
If so, we would love to be your home away from home! During your stay with us you’ll be served a complimentary breakfast every morning, receive free parking and wifi, have access to our indoor pool and season outdoor pool and many more amenities! Take a minute to Browse Our Guest Rooms to find the perfect fit for your trip to Sevierville and the Smokies!
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