One of the fun things to do for tourists when visiting the Smokies is to get into the woods and see the wonder of ages-old trees, creeks, cascades and be right in the middle of the mountains. What better way to get back to mother nature than hit the hiking trails provided in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The Park Service has maps and trails online, and all of the trails are well defined. There are over 10,000 hikers each year that trek the five major trails that lead to the top of Mt. LeConte. Each trail offers spectacular scenery and there is one for every fitness level of individual, and every age.
The most popular trail is the Alum Cave Bluffs Trail which is the shortest trail clocking in at 4.6 miles round-trip with a 2600 foot gain in elevation. You'll come across Inspiration Point, Arch Trail and of course, Alum Cave Bluff. This is one of the trails that is easy enough for children to maneuver.
 Rainbow Falls Trail is one of earliest trails leading to the top of Mt. LeConte with a 4000 foot gain in elevation in 6.7 miles, and can be a "challenge". After 2.8 miles the gorgeous Rainbow Falls comes into view and the perfect place to catch your breath and rest a while before you travel on. The trail follows along what was once known as Mill Creek due to the numerous grist mills that were in operation once upon a time. These are only two of the trails that lead to the LeConte Lodge, the only lodging available in the Park. Once at the top the view will take your breath away, no pun intended, after hiking in the oxygen-dwindling atmosphere of the 6400 foot elevation.
Whichever trail you choose the majesty of the mountains surround you, the peace and quiet of ages-old trees envelops you as you are in the wilderness and at one with nature. The big reward is being able to be "On top of Ole Smoky", looking down at the world below and enjoying the sunset or sunrise and just be in awe at all you can see, and from the eagle's and the hawk's perspective.
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