Renting a cabin in the Great Smoky Mountains offers a tranquil escape from the stresses of daily life. The vacation spot is especially popular for hikers, as part of the Appalachian Trail extends through the national park. However, you don’t have to camp to enjoy the breathtaking vistas. When mapping out your hiking routes, below are three summits you can reach in a day.  

What Day Hikes Should You Try in the Smokies? 

1. Clingmans Dome

With an elevation of 6,643 feet, Clingmans Dome is the highest peak in the Great Smoky Mountains, as well as the state of Tennessee. From the observation tower on a clear day, it’s possible to see Tennessee, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Kentucky, Georgia, and Alabama. There are various starting points in North Carolina and Tennessee to reach the apex. If you want a short excursion, drive on Clingmans Dome Road to the Forney Ridge Parking area and trailhead. From there, you can make the half-mile journey to the lookout tower. You can also take the seven-mile journey on Clingmans Dome Road — beginning near Newfound Gap — to get to the top.   

2. Balsam High Top

During a roundtrip hike to Balsam High Top, you’ll cover 7.6 miles along the Benton MacKaye Trail, starting at Beech Gap Trailhead. The trek is a workout, with an elevation gain of more than 600 feet each mile. You could also begin the journey at Pin Oak Gap and follow the Balsam Mountain Trail to the top. The routes to Balsam High Top aren’t as busy as other paths, so consider this journey if you’re in search of a secluded hiking experience. Along the way, you can take in the beauty of the surrounding evergreens. 

3. Mount Cammerer

The 11.1-mile roundtrip hike to the summit of Mount Cammerer ends with a chance to take in views from the historic fire tower. It was constructed in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corp. and provides an all-encompassing view of the landscape, including the Pigeon River Gorge. There are various starting points, including the Cosby Ranger Station and Campground, where you can access the Lower Mount Cammerer Trail, follow it to the Appalachian Trail, and then take the Mount Cammerer Trail to the summit. 

If you’re looking for comfortable lodging for your vacation in the Smokies, contact American Patriot Getaways. The company has spacious cabins for rent in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, TN, that feature many of the comforts you enjoy at home. The cabins are also close to several trailheads, so you won’t have to go far to start your hike. To inquire about rental pricing, call (800) 204-5169. A representative is happy to tell you what trails are near the area and suggest attractions to keep your family entertained. You can also visit the company online to browse available cabin rentals.