Chimney Tops: The Steepest Hike in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

If you’re searching for one of the best short but strenuous hikes in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the Chimney Tops Trail delivers a powerful punch. The popular hike packs steep elevation gain, multiple scenic creek crossings over Road Prong and the West Prong of the Little Pigeon River, and a relentless climb that ranks among the toughest in the park. While access to the iconic Chimney Tops is now closed due to damage from the 2016 Great Smoky Mountains wildfires, hikers are still rewarded with sweeping mountain views, vibrant wildflowers, and the chance to spot wildlife like black bears along the trail.

Trailhead elevation 3,440'

Water throughout the first 1.3 miles

Don't miss looking for black bears along the upper portion of the trail

Hiking Chimney Tops

It’s my first day back in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, fresh off a few days of backpacking in the Roan Highlands, and I’m off to tackle one of the park’s most iconic hikes: the Chimney Tops Trail. With light crowds and gorgeous spring weather, I pull into the 20 vehicle capacity parking area along Newfound Gap Road, toss my parking tag on the dash, and hit the trail. Surprisingly, the lot—typically packed during peak seasons—has only a handful of cars, and even the roadside overflow area is empty.

The hike begins with a gentle descent to a sturdy wooden bridge spanning the West Prong of the Little Pigeon River. The sound of rushing water sets the tone immediately, and I pause to take in the view and chat briefly with fellow hikers.

Moments later, I cross a second footbridge over Road Prong, a lively tributary that will accompany much of the hike. It’s a picture-perfect mid-April afternoon—blue skies, crisp air, and a steady breeze—making it easy to slow down and enjoy the park.

A short distance ahead, a stone staircase signals the transition from warm-up to workout.

After a third bridge crossing, the Chimney Tops Trail begins to reveal its true character. Known as the steepest designated trail in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the climb quickly intensifies, alternating between rugged terrain, wooden steps, and carefully placed stone stairs. The grade ramps up fast, delivering a relentless ascent that seasoned hikers will appreciate.

While sweeping very limited are limited early on, occasional breaks in the trees offer glimpses of the surrounding Smoky Mountains and the lingering effects of past wildfire damage. Wildflowers line the trail in patches, and the constant rush of Road Prong provides a steady rhythm as the elevation gain builds.

Around the one-mile mark, the grade steepens dramatically—reaching upward of 15%—and only gets tougher from there. After crossing a fourth footbridge near the junction with the Road Prong Trail, the incline surges to an intense 30%. Staircase after staircase leads upward in a sustained push that defines the Chimney Tops hike.

At roughly 1.3 miles, I encounter a reminder of the park’s wild nature—an adult black bear just off the trail. Startled at first, I give it space and watch as it forages, uninterested in my presence. Encounters like this highlight why Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the best places in the eastern U.S. for wildlife viewing.

After waiting several minutes, I continue safely up the trail. The final stretch delivers glimpses of mountain views through the trees before opening up at the 1.8-mile mark to a scenic overlook. Here, views of Mount LeConte, fill the distant skyline. It's a truly knock your socks off view that make the effort so much worth it.

While the historic Chimney Tops themselves are no longer accessible due to damage from the 2016 Great Smoky Mountains wildfires, I continue a short distance past the overlook to catch a distant view of the iconic twin peaks. A gate now marks the end of the trail, permanently closing off access to the chimneys for safety reasons.

Back at the overlook, I take time to soak in the panoramic mountain views, gobble down lunch, and give Heather a shout. She's not one for views (it's odd), but she would have really enjoyed the workout. We chat for a few minutes, then I begin the descent. The return hike is just as memorable, including another sighting of the same black bear along the trail.

The sound of Road Prong guides me back to the trailhead, where I toss on my flip flops and hit the road. My first non-freeze dried meal in three days lies ahead and I can't wait. Though the Chimney Tops Trail has changed in recent years, it remains one of the best hikes in Great Smoky Mountains National Park for those seeking a short but strenuous adventure. With steep elevation gain, scenic river crossings, and rewarding views, this hike proves that even without the final scramble, Chimney Tops still delivers. The effort is undeniable—but for hikers chasing a challenge, the payoff is absolutely worth it.