Hiking Trails from the Greenbrier Road Entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Hiking Trails from the Greenbrier Road Entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park

If you’re staying with Blue Mountain Cabins, one of the best-kept secrets for hiking in the Smokies is just minutes away - the Greenbrier Road entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This quieter side of the park offers lush forests, rushing mountain streams, historic homesteads, and some of the most rewarding hikes in the Smokies, without the heavy crowds you’ll find elsewhere.

Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, exploring Appalachian history, or simply enjoying a peaceful walk in the woods, these Greenbrier-area trails offer something for every hiking style.

Quick-Reference Greenbrier Hiking Trail Guide

Distances and difficulty can vary based on turnaround points and trail conditions.

Ramsey Cascades Trail - A Must-Do Waterfall Hike

Distance: Approximately 8 miles round trip
Difficulty: Strenuous
Trail Type: Out and back
Learn more: https://www.nps.gov/grsm/planyourvisit/ramseycascades.htm

Ramsey Cascades is one of the most iconic hikes in the Smoky Mountains and a favorite among adventurous guests. This challenging trail leads to Ramsey Cascades, the tallest waterfall in the national park, dropping more than 100 feet over layered rock ledges.

The trail follows the Middle Prong of the Little Pigeon River and passes through a stunning old-growth forest with some of the largest trees in the Smokies. Expect steady elevation gain and a full-day commitment, but the reward is well worth the effort.

Porters Creek Trail - Scenic, Peaceful, and Full of History

Distance: Up to 7.2 miles round trip
Difficulty: Moderate
Trail Type: Out and back
Learn more: https://www.nps.gov/grsm/planyourvisit/porterscreek.htm

Porters Creek Trail is a wonderful choice for guests looking for a scenic hike without steep climbs. The trail gently follows Porters Creek through mossy forest and is especially beautiful in spring when wildflowers bloom along the trail.

About 2 miles in, you’ll reach Fern Branch Falls, a lovely cascading waterfall that makes an excellent turnaround point. Along the way, you’ll also see old stone walls, cabin remnants, and the historic Ownby Cemetery, offering a glimpse into early mountain life.

Old Settlers Trail - Step Back in Time

Distance: Up to 15.8 miles (sections can be hiked)
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
Trail Type: Point to point or out and back
Learn more: https://www.nps.gov/grsm/planyourvisit/oldsettlers.htm

Old Settlers Trail is perfect for hikers who enjoy history as much as scenery. Unlike many Smoky Mountain trails, this route follows gentler terrain through river valleys and former farmland.

Most guests choose to hike a portion of the trail rather than the full length, making it a flexible option for a relaxed day hike. You’ll pass old foundations, chimneys, and rock walls that tell the story of families who lived here before the park was established.

Grapeyard Ridge Trail - Quiet and Underrated

Distance: Approximately 5.8 miles round trip
Difficulty: Moderate
Trail Type: Out and back or point to point
Learn more: https://hikinginthesmokys.com/grapeyard-ridge-trail/

Grapeyard Ridge Trail is a lesser-known gem that rewards hikers with solitude and history. Along the route, you may spot old chimneys, cemeteries, and even remnants of an early logging-era steam engine.

This trail offers moderate elevation changes and fewer crowds, making it a great option for guests who prefer quieter hikes and a slower pace.

Brushy Mountain Trail - For Experienced Hikers

Distance: Approximately 11 miles round trip
Difficulty: Moderate
Trail Type: Out and back or connector
Learn more: https://www.nps.gov/grsm/planyourvisit/trilliumgap.htm

Brushy Mountain Trail is accessed via a gravel spur road off Greenbrier Road and is best suited for experienced hikers. It steadily climbs to connect with Trillium Gap Trail, which leads toward Grotto Falls and ultimately Mount LeConte.

This trail is ideal for guests looking to link multiple routes or reach higher elevations while avoiding some of the busier trailheads.

Helpful Tips for Blue Mountain Cabins Guests

• Always check current trail conditions on the National Park Service website before heading out: https://www.nps.gov/grsm
• Spring and early summer are the best times for waterfalls and wildflowers
• Bring plenty of water, snacks, and sturdy footwear
• Cell service is limited - download maps ahead of time
• Leave No Trace to help preserve the beauty of the Smokies

Explore More, Crowd Less

The Greenbrier Road area is one of our favorite places to send guests who want to experience the natural beauty of the Smoky Mountains without the crowds. From peaceful creekside walks to challenging waterfall hikes, these trails offer unforgettable adventures just a short drive from your Blue Mountain Cabins stay.