5 Kid-friendly Hiking Trails in Tennessee

With endless hiking trails to choose from, Tennessee is full of outdoor adventures. To help you decide where to hit the trail, we recently featured five Tennessee hikes on our Instagram story that are perfect for the whole family. Our picks include trails that are stroller accessible, short enough for small kiddos, and safe, easy terrain. No matter what kind of hike your family is looking for, there’s one on this list everyone will love.

1. Cataract Falls: Gatlinburg

At less than a mile round-trip, this flat, easy hike leads up to a beautiful 25-foot waterfall kids of all ages will enjoy. The hike is heavily shaded and there is plenty of cool stuff to look at along the trail. Insider tip: The falls tend to dry up in the dead of summer, so take this hike in the spring or fall for the best photo ops.

• Park at the Sugarlands Visitor Center for easy access to the trail

• Grab a Junior Ranger booklet from the visitor center before beginning your hike which will give your kids chances to interact with the trail

• A very easy hike for kids in the Smoky Mountains with easy trail conditions and accessible trailhead

2. Great Stone Door: Beersheba Springs

A narrow pathway between two huge boulders, this trail has been used for centuries to get over the bluff. At a little less than 2 miles of relatively flat terrain, this easy hike still has the sense of adventure kids love. There are some awesome views at the top of this hike, but you’ll want to keep an eye on younger kiddies due to the narrow pathways and steep drop-offs. As long as everyone is careful, this hike is sure to be a family favorite.

• Parking is free in a large lot

• No rugged terrain, so it's a great hike for kids 

• Spectacular views from the bluffs 

3. Narrows of the Harpeth Hike Trail: Burns

This mile-long hike can get a little narrow and steep in some places, but overall it’s pretty kid-friendly. The trail features some awesome lookout spots, ending at the Montgomery Bell Tunnel. This manmade cave makes the perfect spot to stop, have a snack and take some photos. The trail is in Harpeth River State Park, which has dozens of other hiking trails to explore and some great places to kayak, canoe or fish. You can bring your own boat or rent from multiple outdoor outfitters in the area.

• This easy hike is short and view is beautiful

• The Historic Tunnel trailhead begins at the steps located ahead of the parking lot

• Montgomery Bell State Park is right up the road and has a 117-room lodge onsite as well as camping

4. Benton Falls: Benton

The most popular trail in the Cherokee National Forest, this hike is known for being both kid- and canine-friendly. The starting point is well-equipped with grills, bathrooms and even a lake to swim in. The hike is 3 miles round-trip, with mild terrain and no severe inclines along the way. This trail also takes you to the base of one of the most picturesque waterfalls in Tennessee. The beginning of the trail can be a little tough to find, so follow the signs and keep your eyes peeled, because the waterfall is definitely worth it!

• Ideal for kids and dogs, with easy access and well-maintained & well-marked trails

• Trailhead for the hike is easily accessible from the Chilhowee day use area parking lot

• Short easy hike with a beautiful waterfall at the end makes for a great little day-trip with the kids

5. Kuwohi: Gatlinburg

The highest lookout point in the Smoky Mountains, Kuwohi (formerly known as Clingman's Dome) has a 360-degree view of the stunning Tennessee landscape. While the pathway up to the dome is paved, it’s a little over a mile of steep terrain, so it can be a bit of a challenge. Luckily, there are plenty of benches along the way to stop for a breather and to take in the scenery. Be warned: As one of the best views in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, this hike can get a little crowded, especially when the weather is nice.

• Enjoy unmatched panoramic views of the Smoky Mountains on this kid-friendly hike

• There is a dedicated parking lot but it often fills up quickly, so get there early to avoid the congestion

• The hike to the observation tower is a 1-mile roundtrip and partially paved; the hike is almost entirely uphill, so be ready for a workout (it is definitely worth it!) 

Follow @tnvacation on Instagram to see more insider tips for planning the perfect Tennessee vacation.