When you come to visit the Smokies, you won’t want to miss out on the chance to come enjoy a meal with us here at The Park Grill! Due to our location right outside the entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, we are sometimes referred to as the unofficial restaurant of the park, and we embrace this label with our rustic mountain decor and overall atmosphere. If you are looking for the perfect way to spend an afternoon in the Smokies, you can’t go wrong with a hike in the park and then a meal at our restaurant! Here are some of the top Smoky Mountain trails that we would suggest you check out before coming to eat with us:
1. The Gatlinburg Trail
First up, we have the closest of the Smoky Mountain trails to our restaurant, as the Gatlinburg Trail begins just across the street from The Park Grill! This trail is relatively easy and runs for 1.9 miles until you reach the Sugarlands Visitor Center. Along the trail, you can spot remnants of historic Smoky Mountain homesteads, enjoy views of the Little Pigeon River, and cross a footbridge. If you are looking for a convenient option for hiking before a meal with us, it doesn’t get any better than the Gatlinburg Trail!
2. Rainbow Falls Trail
If you are interested in hiking one of the more challenging Smoky Mountain trails nearby before dining with us, Rainbow Falls Trail will make it well worth your while! Located just a short distance from the Parkway in Gatlinburg, Rainbow Falls Trail is a 5.4-mile roundtrip hike that includes a good deal of uphill climbing, but those who complete the hike will be rewarded with stunning views of Rainbow Falls, the highest single-drop waterfall in the Smoky Mountains. If you happen to visit on a sunny afternoon, you will want to make sure to keep your eyes peeled for the rainbow effect that is sometimes created in the waterfall’s mist, which gave Rainbow Falls its name!
3. Sugarlands Valley Nature Trail
On the other hand, if you are looking for a simple hike to enjoy with kids, older adults, or anyone else, we would suggest you check out the Sugarlands Valley Nature Trail! This trail is just a half-mile roundtrip and features very little elevation gain, plus the entire surface of the trail is paved, making this the most accessible trail in the Smoky Mountains. From river views, to vibrant plant life, and more, there is plenty to see along this trail!
4. Grotto Falls Trail
Last, but not least, we have Grotto Falls Trail, which leads you to the only waterfall in the Smoky Mountains that visitors can walk behind! This trail is a 2.6-mile roundtrip and features a small amount of elevation gain. Along the way, make sure to keep your eyes peeled for the old growth forest, variety of wildflowers, and more!
When you check out any of these amazing Smoky Mountain trails, you will be able to take in the scenic beauty that the area has to offer, and work up an appetite for a delicious and satisfying meal with us right here at The Park Grill. If you are ready to plan your visit today, you can reserve a table at our Gatlinburg restaurant right here! We look forward to seeing you soon.
