“The trails you chose were great. Lots of diversity." 
"This was AWESOME! I can definitely see why people come back year after year.”
Each day of Naturalist Hiking Week features two hike choices and a “day off” activity; all led by experienced educators who offer insight into the wonders of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Hikes are moderate to strenuous and 6 – 14 miles over rugged mountainous terrain. Day off activities may include easy nature walks, ecology field trips, tours of historic areas, or arts classes. Participants may create their favorite combination from all the week’s offerings, but must be in good physical condition to participate in the hikes. Evening activities include guest lecturers, musical entertainment, night walks, and more! Program lasts from Monday supper to Saturday lunch. Cost: $370.
Smoky Mountains Hiking Week Sample Schedule of Hikes
Following is a sample list of hikes scheduled for each day of the Smoky Mountains Hiking Week. This list is tentative as hikes may change due to trail closures, other program changes, etc. We strive to offer an equal substitute for hike that must change.
Each day we offer three hikes ranging in difficulty from easy/moderate to strenuous. Trail difficulty depends on a variety of factors, including elevation gain, hike length, and trail condition.
Tuesday
1. Jakes Creek Trail/Panther Creek Trail/Middle Prong Trail – 7.5 miles
2. Lumber Ridge Trail/Meigs Mountain Trail – 10 miles
3. Spence Field via Anthony Creek Trail – 10.4 miles
Wednesday
1. Mt. LeConte via Trillium Gap Trail and Rainbow Falls Trail – 13.3 miles
2. Rich Mountain Loop Trail/Crooked Arm Ridge Trail/Scott Mountain Trail/School House Gap
Trail/Bote Mountain Trail/West Prong Trail – 11 miles
3. Indian Flats Falls via Middle Prong Trail – 7.5 miles
Thursday
1. Finley Cane Trail/Bote Mountain Trail/West Prong Trail – 6 miles
2. Appalachian Trail/Sweat Heifer Trail/Grassy Branch Trail/Dry Sluice Gap Trail/Appalachian Trail – 13.6 miles
3. Lumber Ridge Trail/Spruce Flats Trail – 8 miles
Friday
1. Wet Bottoms Trail/ Cooper Road Trail/ Hatcher Mountain Trail/Abram’s Creek Trail – 13.3 miles
2. Laurel Falls Trail/Cove Mountain Trail – 12.4 miles
3. Alum Cave Trail to Alum Cave/ Chimney Tops Trail Combo – 9 miles
For more information on Hiking Week please call 865-448-6709
