In the event you’re trying to find top-of-the-line quick however strenuous hikes in Nice Smoky Mountains Nationwide Park, the Chimney Tops Path delivers a strong punch. The favored hike packs steep elevation acquire, a number of scenic creek crossings over Street Prong and the West Prong of the Little Pigeon River, and a relentless climb that ranks among the many hardest within the park. Whereas entry to the long-lasting Chimney Tops is now closed as a consequence of harm from the 2016 Nice Smoky Mountains wildfires, hikers are nonetheless rewarded with sweeping mountain views, vibrant wildflowers, and the prospect to identify wildlife like black bears alongside the path.
Trailhead elevation 3,440′
Water all through the primary 1.3 miles
Do not miss in search of black bears alongside the higher portion of the path
Climbing Chimney Tops
It’s my first day again in Nice Smoky Mountains Nationwide Park, recent off a number of days of backpacking within the Roan Highlands, and I’m off to sort out one of many park’s most iconic hikes: the Chimney Tops Path. With gentle crowds and beautiful spring climate, I pull into the 20 automobile capability parking space alongside Newfound Hole Street, toss my parking tag on the sprint, and hit the path. Surprisingly, the lot—sometimes packed throughout peak seasons—has solely a handful of vehicles, and even the roadside overflow space is empty.
The hike begins with a mild descent to a sturdy picket bridge spanning the West Prong of the Little Pigeon River. The sound of speeding water units the tone instantly, and I pause to absorb the view and chat briefly with fellow hikers.
Moments later, I cross a second footbridge over Street Prong, a full of life tributary that may accompany a lot of the hike. It’s a picture-perfect mid-April afternoon—blue skies, crisp air, and a gentle breeze—making it simple to decelerate and benefit from the park.
A brief distance forward, a stone staircase alerts the transition from warm-up to exercise.
After a 3rd bridge crossing, the Chimney Tops Path begins to disclose its true character. Often known as the steepest designated path in Nice Smoky Mountains Nationwide Park, the climb rapidly intensifies, alternating between rugged terrain, picket steps, and thoroughly positioned stone stairs. The grade ramps up quick, delivering a relentless ascent that seasoned hikers will recognize.
Whereas sweeping very restricted are restricted early on, occasional breaks within the bushes supply glimpses of the encompassing Smoky Mountains and the lingering results of previous wildfire harm. Wildflowers line the path in patches, and the fixed rush of Street Prong offers a gentle rhythm because the elevation acquire builds.
Across the one-mile mark, the grade steepens dramatically—reaching upward of 15%—and solely will get harder from there. After crossing a fourth footbridge close to the junction with the Street Prong Path, 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 grownup black bear simply off the path. Startled at first, I give it house and watch because it forages, tired of my presence. Encounters like this spotlight why Nice Smoky Mountains Nationwide Park is without doubt one of the greatest locations within the jap U.S. for wildlife viewing.
After ready a number of minutes, I proceed safely up the path. The ultimate stretch delivers glimpses of mountain views by way of the bushes earlier than opening up on the 1.8-mile mark to a scenic overlook. Right here, views of Mount LeConte, Cliff Prime, West Level, and even Balsam Level dominate the skyline. It is a really knock your socks off view that made the hassle a lot price it.
Whereas the historic Chimney Tops themselves are not accessible as a consequence of harm from the 2016 Nice Smoky Mountains wildfires, I proceed a brief distance previous the overlook to catch a distant view of the long-lasting twin peaks. A gate now marks the tip of the path, completely closing off entry to the chimneys for security causes.
Again on the overlook, I take time to soak within the panoramic mountain views, gobble down lunch, and provides Heather a shout. She’s not one for views (it is odd), however she would have actually loved the exercise. We chat for a couple of minutes, then I start the descent. The return hike is simply as memorable, together with one other sighting of the identical black bear alongside the path.
The sound of Street Prong guides me again to the trailhead, the place I toss on my flip flops and hit the street. My first non-freeze dried meal in three days lies forward and I am unable to wait. Although the Chimney Tops Path has modified lately, it stays top-of-the-line hikes in Nice Smoky Mountains Nationwide Park for these in search of a brief however strenuous journey. With steep elevation acquire, scenic river crossings, and rewarding views, this hike proves that even with out the ultimate scramble, Chimney Tops nonetheless delivers. The trouble is plain—however for hikers chasing a problem, the payoff is totally price it.
