About
Cove Hardwood Nature Trail is a brief loop stretching just three-quarters of a mile with a modest elevation gain of 226 feet. The trail begins with a steep climb up 40 wooden stairs before easing into a more gradual ascent and descent along uneven terrain marked by roots and rocks. What sets this trail apart is its passage through an old-growth hardwood forest, offering a cool, shaded walk that contrasts sharply with the often sunlit surrounding parklands. The presence of several small creeks crossed via footbridges or rock hops adds a gentle soundtrack of flowing water to the hike.
Starting from the Chimneys Picnic Area, where picnic tables and grills invite a leisurely stop before or after your walk, the trail quickly immerses you in a dense canopy of towering oaks, maples, and hickories. Early in the hike, the stairs push you upward through thick undergrowth, while further along, the path meanders through moss-dappled roots and rocky patches that demand careful footing. You'll notice the subtle sound of creeks bubbling beneath your feet as you cross several small streams, the cool moisture enhancing the forest's earthy scent. In spring, the trail bursts with wildflowers like fringed phacelia and trilliums, while fall colors turn the canopy into a mosaic of reds, yellows, and oranges. During summer, the dense shade keeps temperatures down, making this a refreshing refuge from the heat.
The best time to explore Cove Hardwood is early morning or on weekdays outside of the peak wildflower bloom from April to early May, when parking fills quickly and the trail becomes crowded. Fall foliage season also draws visitors, so plan accordingly if you prefer solitude. Note that pets are not allowed here, in line with Great Smoky Mountains National Park regulations, and the trail offers no paved sections, so sturdy shoes are essential. Regulars know that cell signal is unreliable in the Chimneys Picnic Area, so download maps ahead of time, and remember a Park It Forward parking tag is required if you stay longer than 15 minutes.
Plan Your Visit
Parking & Permits
Parking: Seven parking spots next to the trailhead and additional parking available throughout the Chimneys Picnic Area. Fills quickly during spring wildflower season.
Permits: Park entry is free, but a Park It Forward parking tag is required for stays over 15 minutes. $5 daily, $15 weekly, $40 annual. Buy at https://smokiespermits.nps.gov.
What to Bring
Cell signal: Spotty to none. spotty to none in the Chimneys Picnic Area. Download the AllTrails map offline before you go.
Season-specific:
- Spring: spectacular wildflower display from April through early May, including fringed phacelia and trilliums. Expect crowds.
- Summer: lush green forest setting, shaded and cooler.
Common Questions
How long is it? 0.75 miles roundtrip
Are dogs allowed? Pets are not allowed on hiking trails in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The only exceptions are the Gatlinburg Trail and Oconaluftee River Trail.
When to go? Spring wildflower season (April to early May) and fall foliage season. Sweet spot: early mornings or weekdays outside of peak bloom.
Restrooms & Logistics
Restrooms: restrooms available seasonally at Chimneys Picnic Area.
ADA access: uneven terrain, stairs, roots, and rocks, no paved sections
Water crossings: Goes over some small creeks, likely via small footbridges or rock hops.
Photos
