About
Length (round trip)3.5 mi
ShapeOut-and-Back
DifficultyHard
Elevation gain1,400 ft up
Typical time2 hr 30 min
TrailheadChimney Tops trailhead, Newfound Gap Road
SurfaceRock steps and stone staircases
Best seasonApril to June for wildflowers, mid-October for fall colour. High elevations are cold and icy from November to March.
DogsNot allowed
AccessibilityTrail is steep with stairs and other trail obstacles like roots and rocks.
What you'll see ⛰️ Summit🌄 Big views

Overview Expect extreme crowding and limited parking-consider a shuttle Hike 3.5 miles (5.6 km) roundtrip with steep inclines, a few early bridge crossings, and stone stairs that deliver hikers to a picturesque view in Great Smoky Mountains National Park . In November 2016, this area experienced an unprecedented wildfire which changed the landscape, making it vulnerable to erosion and other hazards. Do not enter the closed area and do not put yourself at risk. Please read the closed sign and do not go past the gate. To preserve habitat and for the safety of all visitors, please adhere to all trail closures. Length 3.5 miles (5.6 km) roundtrip Parking & Trailhead Please consider a shuttle or park at the Chimney Tops Trailhead on Newfound Gap Road (US 441), roughly 7 miles (11.3 km) from Sugarlands Visitor Center and 22 miles (35.4 km) from Oconaluftee Visitor Center. Don't forget your parking tag . Alternative Hikes West Prong: 5.4 miles (8.7 km) roundtrip Cove Hardwood Nature Trail : 0.75 miles (1.2 km) roundtrip Nearest Restroom Sugarlands Visitor Center

Tips
The final scramble onto the pinnacles themselves has been closed since the 2016 Chimney Tops 2 fire and is not reopening - the trail now ends at a purpose-built overlook. Still 1,400 feet in under two miles.
Location

Chimney Tops trailhead, Newfound Gap Road

Other Hikers
No one has logged this trail yet.
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