Chimney Tops Trail

Overview

Chimney Tops Trail offers a challenging hike leading to two rocky summits with panoramic views of the Great Smoky Mountains. The trail is 4 miles round trip with an elevation gain of 1,600 feet.

Known for its stunning views and challenging terrain, it's one of the most popular trails in the park.

Outdoor Recreation Scenic Views

Location

Address

Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee

Neighborhood: Great Smoky Mountains

Coordinates

35.676500, -83.443400

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday sunrise to sunset

tuesday sunrise to sunset

wednesday sunrise to sunset

thursday sunrise to sunset

friday sunrise to sunset

saturday sunrise to sunset

sunday sunrise to sunset

Admission

Adults

Free

Children

Free

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

March-May, October-November

Best Time of Day

Early morning

fewer crowds and cooler temperatures

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

2 hours

Recommended

3-4 hours

Full Experience

full day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

mild to warm

• wildflowers
• waterfalls

summer

hot and humid

• green landscapes

autumn

cool and crisp

• fall foliage

winter

cold, possible snow

• snowy peaks

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Check trail conditions
Bring plenty of water
Wear appropriate footwear

What to Bring

essential

water hiking boots map

seasonal

jacket rain gear microspikes (winter)

not allowed

drones pets (on trail) bicycles

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: moderate to strenuous

• steep inclines
• uneven terrain

Medical facilities: first aid available at visitor centers

Payment Information

Accepted

cash, cards

Currency

USD

Typical Costs

entry $0 (free entry)

parking $0 (free parking)

food $10-$20

souvenirs $5-$50

Dress Code

hiking attire, layered clothing, sturdy boots, hiking boots or trail shoes, sandals, flip-flops

Booking Tips

• not required
• National Parks Service website
• N/A
• N/A

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Great Smoky Mountains NPS App

Size: 100 MB

Features: maps, trail conditions, park information

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: visitor centers

Charging Stations: limited availability

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS)

Distance: 40 km

Travel Time: 45 minutes

taxi

$50-$70 45 min

public_transport

$15 1 hour 15 min

From City Center

Distance: 500 m

walking

$0 10 min

car

varies 5 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: access to stunning nature and outdoor activities

Historical Significance: part of the oldest mountain range in North America

Insider Tips

Best views at sunrise
Avoid weekends for fewer crowds

Local Recommendations

• Visit the Sugarlands Visitor Center
• Try local moonshine

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Hi

thank_you Thank you

where_is Where is

how_much How much

beautiful Beautiful

ticket Ticket

Guide Languages: English, Spanish

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Chimney Tops summit

Best Time: sunrise or sunset

Tips: wide angle for landscapes

Result: stunning mountain views

#hiking #greatsmokies #chimneytops

Photography Rules

allowed areas all outdoor areas

prohibited areas inside buildings

flash photography allowed

commercial photography permit needed

drone policy prohibited without permit

tripod policy allowed

selfie sticks allowed

Nearby Attractions

Clingmans Dome

Distance: 5km

Walking: 60 min

Type: Scenic Viewpoint

Newfound Gap Road

Distance: 3km

Walking: 40 min

Type: Scenic Drive

Reviews

4.7

Based on 5,000 reviews

Recent Visitor Tips

"Start early"
"Bring plenty of water"
"Wear good shoes"

Contact Information

+1 865-436-1291

info@nps.gov

www.nps.gov/grsm

Social Media

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