The Chimney Tops Trail is one of the most popular in the park because of
its length and spectacular views, but it is a steady uphill hike and can be
hazardous at the top.

The rock outcrops at the top are steep, slippery when wet or icy, and
exposed to wind and lightning.

1.)  This wonderful trail starts out
crossing two substantial creeks
four times on bridges. Each
crossing provides a different
ambiance...

2.)  This bridge crossing looked like
a Japanese water garden that
had been picked up and dropped
into the Smokies...

3.)  You pass through a magic forest full
of rhododendron and hemlock...

4.)  At .9 miles, you reach a junction.
The Road Prong Trail continues
straight, ascending the main crest
of the Smokies to connect with the Appalachian Trail in 2.4 miles.
Turn right to continue to the
Chimney Tops trail.

5.)  After the path switches back several
times, the ledge gets quite narrow
with spectacular views across to
Mt. LeConte...

7.)  The reward for scrambling up the
rock to the top of the Chimneys
is a 360-degree view of the
surrounding mountains...

8.)  You'll see Mt. LeConte to the
northeast, Mt. Mingus to the
southeast, Sugarland Mountain
to the west and to the the north,
Sugarland Valley.

 

| TO CHIMNEY TOPS 2002  | | MAIN MENU | | SMOKIES MENU |