31 via Porters Creek Trail(edit)

Overview

This is not as difficult as it might seem - it's 3.5 miles up with a fairly gentle climb, then back down again with a pleasant descent. There are no spectacular mountain views, but lots of pleasant Smoky Mountain scenery, a few dramatic moments (an old cantilevered barn, a queasy-making log bridge, a lovely waterfall), a lively creek to walk along, and in the spring (I'm told) carpets of wildflowers. In my hike I saw families with small children, old folks, large groups of out-of-shape hikers, and young couples, so the trail is definitely suitable for all sorts of people.

Getting Started

The drive to the trailhead takes you down a windy potholed gravel road, so be careful. But I was able to make it in an old Toyota Camry, so it's not that difficult.

Taking Children

Children might find the last mile or so pretty boring - maybe consider just hiking up to the falls and back, instead of the whole 3.5 miles to Campsite 31.