Embark on one of the most iconic hikes in Great Smoky Mountains National Park – Chimney Tops! This popular hike draws visitors from all around the world with its striking beauty and reputation as one of the park’s most scenic trails. Covering 3.8 miles (roundtrip), this trail features a steep ascent that rewards determined hikers with incredible views. Along the way, you’ll cross picturesque footbridges, pass cascading streams, and wander through lush forests of rhododendron, hemlock, and hardwood trees.
Although the final 0.25 miles of the trail remain closed due to fire damage from the 2016 Chimney Tops 2 Fire, a thoughtfully constructed observation platform ensures you won’t miss out on the area’s awe-inspiring views. From this vantage point, you can see Chimney Tops and Mount LeConte in the distance. The Chimney Tops Trail offers an unforgettable adventure and is a must-do hike when visiting the Great Smoky Mountains!
Hiking Chimney Tops: Overview
Trailhead Location: Located along Newfound Gap Road about 7 miles south of Sugarlands Visitor Center
Length: 3.8 miles
Elevation Gain: 1,400 feet
Difficulty: Challenging
Hiking Time: 2 to 4 hours
Route Type: Out-and-back
Pet-friendly? No
Hike Features: Overlook with views of Chimney Tops and Mt. LeConte
⚠️ Due to the 2016 wildfire, the last 0.25 miles of the trail remain closed due to safety concerns and environmental preservation.
Directions and Parking
Chimney Tops is located in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, near the border of Tennessee and North Carolina.
The Chimney Tops Trailhead is located along Newfound Gap Road about 7 miles south of Sugarlands Visitor Center and about 22 miles north from Oconaluftee Visitor Center.
The parking area can hold 34 vehicles but due to this trail’s popularity, it can fill up fast. Arrive early to snag a parking spot!
You can also book a shuttle to take you to the trailhead!
✨ READ THIS: 15 Ways to Avoid Crowds in the Great Outdoors
Parking tags are required in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. There are three different tags you can purchase. Daily pass for $5, weekly pass for $15, or an annual pass for $40. Daily and weekly tags may be purchased online HERE and annual tags can be purchased online HERE, or on-site.
Parking tags are NOT required for motorists who pass through the area or who park for less than 15 minutes, or while parked at their designated campsite. Entrance into the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is FREE, but a parking tag is required.
Find more information about parking tags HERE.
Best Time to Hike Chimney Tops Trail
Spring and fall are the most ideal times to hike the Chimney Tops Trail, but it can be a great experience in any season!
Spring (April to June): The trail comes alive with blooming wildflowers and lush green foliage, and the cooler temperatures make the steep ascent more comfortable. However, spring showers are common, so check the forecast and be prepared for potentially muddy conditions.
Summer (July to August): Summer offers long daylight hours and vibrant greenery, but it’s also the busiest time on the trail. Arrive early to secure parking and avoid crowds. While the forest provides shade, the steep climb can be taxing in the summer heat, so bring plenty of water to stay hydrated.
Fall (September to November): Fall might be the most stunning time to hike the Chimney Tops Trail! The Smoky Mountains burst into a symphony of reds, oranges, and yellows, providing incredible views along the trail and from the overlook. This season is also extremely popular, so plan for crowds and consider a weekday hike for a quieter experience.
Winter (December to March): Winter hikes are serene and uncrowded, with clear, crisp air offering some of the best visibility. Snow and ice may coat the trail, creating a magical atmosphere but also slippery conditions. Proper gear, like hiking poles and traction devices, is essential.
⚠️ Road closures may occur due to severe weather, so make sure to check the current conditions before heading out!
Chimney Tops Fire and Restoration
In November 2016, the Chimney Tops 2 Fire devastated the Great Smoky Mountains, burning nearly 18,000 acres, including 11,410 acres within the national park. The wildfire, which began at Chimney Tops, spread rapidly northward, reaching downtown Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. Tragically, it claimed 14 lives, injured over 170 people, destroyed more than 2,000 structures, and caused over $500 million in damages. The fire, determined to be human-caused, led to the arrest of two juveniles for aggravated arson.
Chimney Tops was heavily impacted by the blaze, and the trail remained closed for almost a year. In October 2017, it reopened with a new observation point situated about 0.25 miles from the summit. This platform provides stunning views of Mount LeConte and the Chimney Tops summit. However, the final section of the trail and its rocky pinnacles remain closed due to safety concerns and environmental preservation. Even before the fire, the steep summit route required frequent search-and-rescue efforts, highlighting its challenging and hazardous terrain.
Efforts to restore Chimney Tops Trail began in 2012 through the Trails Forever Program, which addressed severe erosion caused by heavy foot traffic and rainfall. Restoration included adding 367 steps, improving drainage, and redefining trail sections to enhance safety and prevent further damage.
While the 2016 fire destroyed much of the summit area, these earlier improvements remain intact, offering hikers a safer and more enjoyable journey to the Chimney Tops Overlook. The trail’s closure beyond the overlook ensures the protection of its fragile environment and the safety of future visitors.
Tips for Hiking Chimney Tops
Start Early: Beat the crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures by starting your hike early in the morning, especially during peak season.
Bring Plenty of Water & Snacks: The hike involves quite a bit of elevation gain, so stay hydrated. Carry at least 2-3 liters of water. Also, bring high-energy snacks to refuel and help maintain your energy during those steep sections.
Be Physically Prepared: With a 1,400-foot elevation gain, be ready for a challenging ascent. Take your time and pace yourself.
Footwear and Gear: The trail involves rocky sections and lots of steps, so wear comfortable, sturdy hiking shoes (or boots). Also, hiking poles may be beneficial on the steep parts, especially when descending. Make sure you wear proper clothing for the season and bring layers just in case.
Sun Protection: Even though this hike takes you through a shaded forest, it’s always smart to take extra precautions and protect yourself from the sun, so wear sunscreen and SPF lip balm.
Be Bear Aware: Black bears are active within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Follow these guidelines to avoid any negative interactions with a black bear.
Leave No Trace: Stay on the trail, pack out all trash, and avoid picking plants or disturbing wildlife. Help keep the Great Smoky Mountains pristine for future hikers.
Trail Directions
Chimney Tops Trail
Follow the Chimney Tops Trail and begin by descending down a set of steps.
The first section of the Chimney Tops Trail offers a serene and picturesque start to your hike. You’ll cross multiple charming footbridges while the soothing sound of rushing river water accompanies you, creating a peaceful ambiance.
Take the time to savor this tranquil stretch. I like to call this section “the calm before the storm” because the rest of the trail toward the Chimney Tops Overlook is going to be tough!
Steps, steps, and more steps
Now the real fun begins. The next section of this hike involves many switchbacks and…
steps. Lots and lots of steps!
Chimney Tops Overlook
✨ One eternity later ✨ (SpongeBob narrator voice)
After what feels like an endless climb of steps, you’ll finally arrive at the Chimney Tops Overlook!
On a clear, sunny day, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views, with the jagged peaks of Chimney Tops to the north and the majestic Mount LeConte to the east.
Gate (last 0.25 miles closed)
You can follow the Chimney Tops Trail a little further until you reach a gate marking the end of the accessible path. As mentioned earlier, the final 0.25 miles of the trail remain closed for safety reasons and restoration.
Retrace your steps to return to the parking lot.
Congrats, you did it! 🥳
Conclusion
Although the most thrilling part of the Chimney Tops Trail is closed (for good reason), this hike is still a must-do on your Great Smoky Mountains trip! The stunning views along the trail and at the Chimney Tops Overlook are absolutely worth it, and the sense of accomplishment after completing this challenging trek makes it all the more rewarding.
If this guide inspires you to hike Chimney Tops, I’d love to hear about your adventure. Leave a comment and share your experience!
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