Let’s get one thing straight: Hiking. Is. Awesome. Whether you’re in a state park, a national park, a national forest or just a stunning stretch of BLM land.
But sometimes, the best-known trails aren’t always the most beautiful—or even if they are, they’re definitely not the most crowd-free. That’s especially true in high-traffic areas like the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which receives some 13 million visitors (or more) per year.
That’s why we’re introducing the “Hike This, Not That” trail series in collaboration with AllTrails. We’re here to get you the skinny on the very best trails that aren’t necessarily at the top of the chart, but are total hidden gems. (And as you know, RVing is the very best way to get up close and personal with our country’s finest, often-overlooked natural landscapes.) We’re starting with GSMNP precisely because it’s the most-visited national park in the U.S. system, but keep your eyes peeled for more of these posts in the future!
Best Crowd-Free Trail Suggestions by AllTrails
Just a quick note for those who may not be familiar: AllTrails is your go-to platform for all things hiking, whether you’re into serious backcountry treks or just a chill walk in your favorite local park. Along with downloadable maps and up-front trail information, including length, elevation gain, and forecast, as part of the new AllTrails Peak! The platform also allows you to connect with other hikers who have been there, done that, and reviewed the experience, which makes it easier than ever to know exactly what you’re getting into. (You can also peek at some gorgeous photos of the views you’ll soon see in person!)
Special Offer for You: Get 30% Off AllTrails Plus!
This annual membership supports offline exploration (downloadable maps for offline trails) and more features like 3D trail previews, wrong turn alerts, live share, and more!
Skip Alum Cave Trail — Try Grapeyard Creek
If you search for Great Smoky Mountains National Park in the AllTrails app, Alum Cave Trail will be close to the top of the list. At 11 miles and more than 3,000 feet of elevation gain, it’s definitely a challenging route—but one that rewards with sweeping mountain views and, as its name suggests, a unique cave cliffside experience.
As cool as Alum Cave Trail is, if you’re looking for a less popular (but just as awesome) trail in GSMNP, we recommend Engine Creek to Grapeyard Creek—which also has the benefit of being more accessible to a wider range of hikers with a “moderate” difficulty score and total distance of just under seven miles. On this less crowded trail, hikers will pass by waterfalls, wildflowers, a historic graveyard and an abandoned old steam engine. Do bear in mind that there are a few creek crossings, which can be a little trickier after a big rainfall!
Here’s what AllTrails hikers have to say about the Grapeyard Creek hike:
- Absolutely gorgeous. So many hidden gems throughout the entire trail, even saw a bear!
- The trail is beautiful. There are numerous water crossings. Weather perfect today. Not crowded. We just met 2 groups along the whole trail.
- This hike has beautiful foliage and the flowing water is wonderful.
Before You Go Considerations
In hiking as with all things, it’s safety first to win the day! Here are some before-you-go considerations to keep in mind for Engine Creek to Grapeyard Creek:
- The weather in this part of the world can be unpredictable, so check the forecast and be sure you’re prepared for cold or rain.
- Yes, bears live here—so study up on what to do in an encounter, and consider arming yourself with bear spray.
- Be sure to bring enough water and sunscreen for everyone in your party.
- And once again, be aware that this trail in particular requires a few water crossings. You’ll want to wear your best waterproof hiking boots!
Skip Charlies Bunion — Try Thunderhead Prong Quiet Walkway
Honestly, Charlies Bunion may not sound like the most attractive destination—but fortunately, we’re talking about a footpath, not a foot! Along with giving visitors the opportunity to hike a stretch of the famed Appalachian Trail, this famous route, which clocks in at eight miles in length and about 1,900 feet of elevation gain, is beloved for its stunning stone summit, where tired hikers can gather with a picnic and reward themselves for their hard work. (And there will be a crowd gathered when you get there.
The Thunderhead Prong Quiet Walkway trail, on the other hand, is—well—quiet. It’s also substantially shorter and easier than Charlies Bunion at just over one mile and only a couple of hundred feet of elevation gain, making it a great option for hikers traveling with kids. What the trail lacks in the way of sweeping mountaintop views, it more than makes up for in lush greenery and a beautiful river crossing over a handsome wooden bridge, which is both picturesque and lower effort. Let the babbling of the water wash over you and enjoy the peace and stillness of this, one of the least crowded trails in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Here’s what some recent visitors had to say!
- Beautiful hike with greenery next to the river.
- Nice quiet afternoon hike with crisp air and rushing water.
- Good trail with some sections of single track. Good hike for kids with a cool bridge and a creek crossing. You’re near the river most of the way. More secluded than some of the more popular trails.
Before You Go Considerations
Even shorter and easier trails have safety considerations to keep in mind!
- The elevated wooden bridge can be slippery in wet weather, so take care while crossing.
- Even for short hikes, be sure to carry enough water, snacks, and sunscreen for your family!
- Yup: Bears still live here, too. Whenever and wherever you are in GSMNP, be bear aware.
Post-Hike Resources for Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Like we said, hiking is awesome, and the very best way to get yourself into the most hikeable parts of our country is to go RV camping. With an RVshare rental in particular, you can enjoy the benefits of this comfortable way of travel at more affordable prices, and in a vehicle that’s actually owned and loved by a real person (rather than a sterile off-the-lot rental).
Looking for more tips and tricks? Check out the best RV parks near Great Smoky Mountains National Park (whether you’re looking for something luxurious and well-equipped or are happy with a more rugged experience). When it’s time to get out of the woods and go to town, Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge are great go-tos. (Insider tip for lovers of hidden gems: J. Del’s will set you up with some of the best pizza you can find this side of the Mississippi. Gotta carbo-load for that hiking, right?)
Other can’t-miss experiences in this area include:
- Dollywood
- The Gatlinburg Free Trolley for local sightseeing
- Ober Mountain, for east-coast skiing fun
Looking for even more off-the-beaten-path alternatives? There are some amazing Great Smoky Mountains National Park destination dupes out there, for those who are truly committed to finding crowd-free options!
No matter where you’re headed this summer (and beyond), RVshare has your back when it comes to crafting an unforgettable vacation, from the RV rental itself down to the trails you tromp at your destination. We’re all about helping you put together trips that are both unforgettable and relaxing—and our team will be standing by every step of the way!
