Hike Cove Hardwood Trail

Hike 0.75 miles (1.2 km) roundtrip on Cove Hardwood Trail.

NPS Photo

Overview

Explore a forest of giants and wind through a lush mountainside on this iconic 0.75-mile loop hike. Cove hardwood forests are amongst the most biodiverse[ ecosystems on the planet, home to a multitude of trees, plants, and animals. This forest also tells a story of human settlement, logging, and regrowth, representing the resilience of the forests that make up the present-day park.

Expect to climb several sets of stairs and step over roots and rocks at the beginning of this loop trail, but once you reach the trail junction the terrain climbs more gently and ends with a gradual descent. Find solitude among the songbirds and ephemeral streams. The vibrant flowers of spring, the lush green of summer, the parade of color in fall, and the peaceful hush of winter create a sense of an enchanted forest here in every season. 

The trail begins in the Chimneys Picnic Area with stairs that wind up past the group picnic site and then transition to soil, roots, and rocks. The first section of the trail has two sets of steps (40 in total), but the trail becomes less steep for the rest of the hike. After the steps, approximately 700 feet from the trailhead, there is a junction with an arrow pointing to take the loop to the right. Continue to follow the loop around until it eventually begins to descend back to the junction. Turn right to return to the trailhead and parking area. 

Length

0.75 miles (1.2 km) roundtrip

Parking & Trailhead

Seven parking spots next to the trailhead and additional parking available throughout the Chimneys Picnic Area. Don't forget your parking tag.

Nearest Restroom

Restrooms available seasonally at Chimneys Picnic Area.

Alternate Hikes

• Smokemont Nature Trail
• Cooper Road Trail

Details

Activity

Hiking

Pets Allowed

No

The Gatlinburg Trail and Oconaluftee River Trail are the only two park trails where pets are permitted. Pets are also allowed in picnic areas, in campgrounds, and on roads.

Activity Fee

Yes

A parking tag is required to park in the Smokies for more than 15 minutes.

Reservations

No

Accessibility Information

Trail includes some steep sections, stairs, and occasional roots/rocks on the trail.