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Chimney Tops Trail


Highlights:

360-degree views await you at the top of this 4730 ft pinnacle
Near:Gatlinburg, TN
Scenery:
Distance:4 miles round trip
Elevation Gain:1432 ft
Hike Time:2.5 hours
Difficulty:Strenuous
Trail Condition:OK, but a few difficult spots
HikeType:Out and Back


Summary: You can see the twin peaks as you wind along Newfound Gap Road but you can't appreciate them as much until you reach the top and see them again on the drive home. Your trek starts mildly as you cross a few bridges over some scenic streams and then ascend over 700 ft a mile until you reach the top. You and everyone who makes it to the top will say the same thing, " wow the view is well worth the climb". At first appearance you feel you will have to climb the rocks that go straight up to get the views you came after but you can spot a trail to the right, follow it around for more spectacular views. Climbing the pinnacle is very dangerous and extreme caution should be used if you choose to do so. This rock outcrop is part of the Anakeesta Formation also found at Charlies Bunion, which is at least 600 million years old.
Trailhead: I-40 Exit 407 follow Hwy 66 South 8 miles to 441 South to Gatlinburg; 441 South on Newfound Gap Road about 6.5 miles past the Sugarland Visitors Center. There is a small parking lot on the right side of the road with trailhead sign. (Don't confuse the Chimney Tops Picnic Area for the trailhead) (Lat:35.63044 Lon:-83.47829)
Trail Guides for Chimney Tops Trail:
Day Hikes in GSMNP
by Johnny Molloy ()

Best Seasons: Year-Round
User Groups: Hikers, Dogs,
Ranger Contact: GSMNP Headquarters 865-436-0120
Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Bobby Trotter, who has posted  74 other hikes on this site
Trail Reviews  Page 2 of 9   Submit your own review
Reviewed by John Morgan on 4/29/2009
This is the first hike that my wife and I have done. It was really nice and we enjoyed alot, we also met alot of people along the way. We made the hike on 4-25-09. This trail does have it's places that are challenging for one, however not impossible. You have to know your limitations. We would definately do this one again. Loved it very much.

Reviewed by tracekins on 4/18/2009
the trail is not much for views or hiking-just rock climbing and a good chance of breaking your ankle.do LeConte or Charlie's Bunion instead.

Reviewed by natalie on 12/22/2008
i really enjoyed the it .. but if its cold be ready for a slippery hike down the trail

Reviewed by Kimi Huston on 10/23/2008
Although it was all up hill at a slant it was a very nice hike. I think I'd make sure I was in decent shape before I hike that trail again though. :) The view from the top was definately worth the hike though!!

Reviewed by Allen on 8/24/2008
A strenuous hike indeed. Begins as a modest incline that in places becomes fairly steep indeed. But the payoff at the top is a wonderful view of the Smokies...in all directions. Tennis shoes are ok for the hike...as long as they are in good condition. There is a very short rock climb at the end...all in all...WELL worth your time.

Reviewed by KB on 6/25/2008
This one is hard, but once you make it to the top it is worth it. I enjoyed it very much and I will probably hike it again this year. It was unfortunately cloudy on the day I went up there, but even still, it is a good work-out.

Reviewed by ALS on 6/20/2008
I love this hike. In College a friend and I speed hiked this thing several times. We went mainly for the view and tried to get there before everyone else or after everyone left. If you are willing to try an early morning hike this one is great for a small breakfast and devotional at the top. This year three of my four kids are able to do this one. I am going to hike it three times next week (to spend some one-on-one daddy time). I am pumped about the hike. Take your time and enjoy.

Reviewed by MP on 5/6/2008
Beautiful hike, glorious mountain streams, wildflowers, birds. I must say, though, contrary to JB's opinion, I considered it a very strenuous hike. I am accustomed to hiking 7-15 miles without problem, but this one winded me several times (okay, so maybe even MORE than several). Not so my 24 year old daughter, who scrambled up to the top like a mountain goat:) We arrived at the top fully intent on reaching the summit. However, at one point my courage and my daughter's confidence in my newly-acquired rock climbing skills waned, so we called it quits about two-thirds of the way up the rocks to the top, and enjoyed a light lunch gazing down at the lovely clouds against a serene blue sky. Next time, I'll make it all the way up. What a privil


Notice: Traveling in the backcountry can be hazardous. You are responsible for informing yourself about these hazards and taking necessary precautions. Information on this web site comes from volunteer reporters and may contain errors or omissions. A current guidebook and proper equipment are essential for safe enjoyment of the hikes posted on this site.
Keys: Tennessee Hiking, Tennessee Trails, Tennessee Hikes, Sevier County Hiking, Sevier County Trails, Sevier County Hikes

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