Cove Mountain Trail Trailhead — Attraction in Gatlinburg

Cove Mountain Trail: Why We Fell in Love With It

This hike had everything I love—peace, beauty, and just enough challenge to make the views feel earned. We started at Cataract Falls, which was already picture-perfect and made us feel like we were walking into a hidden fairytale. As we made our way up the trail, it got quieter, more remote, and honestly… more magical. The further we climbed, the more we felt like we were part of something special—not just tourists checking off a trail, but people really experiencing the Smokies.

The trees were massive, the wildflowers were popping, and there were long stretches where it was just us, the forest, and the sounds of nature. That kind of quiet is rare—and healing.

By the time we reached the old fire tower at the top, we were tired but so full of that good kind of energy you only get from pushing through a trail like this. You can’t climb the tower anymore, but standing next to it and looking out, we felt like we’d stepped back in time. It was humbling in the best way.

What I loved most? No crowds, no chaos—just a solid, beautiful hike with real moments of peace and awe. If you love feeling like you’ve discovered something off the beaten path, Cove Mountain...

I am so glad visiting this area in Fall. (Early Nov. 2020). Cove Mnt Trail brushes along our cabin rental "Camp Rocky Top" at 1803 Luzerne Drive, Gatlinburg, TN 37738. This cabin is at about 2560 ft. elevation.

A short well marked path downhill from the side of our cabin takes you to the trail. Once I hit the trail, I turned right started going up. I started the stroll at about 7:30 AM taking my time and enjoying the fall surroundings. Went up to about 3100 ft elevation and had to turn back as I started to feel peckish. Must've been about a mile each way. (Bummer! Didn't pack any snacks). The walk back to the cabin was naturally...

The Cove Mountain Trail is a very nice easy trail that leads to a beautiful waterfall. There is a rather big parking lot where you start. The walk is flat and the waterfall is not far from the parking area. The scenery along the trail is beautiful. It is a very peaceful place. The waterfall can have a line to get photos. It is a popular spot for photography. Also a great spot to take photos with your family. People there are usually more than willing to take a photo of you and your family. Also if you go towards the road in the parking lot and to the right tucked in the woods is a very...