Hike Little River Trail

This is about as gentle as hiking gets in the Smokies — a flat, paved former railroad grade that follows the Little River through a canopy of hardwoods. The trail is wheelchair accessible and stroller-friendly, which tells you everything about the terrain. You'll walk alongside the river the entire way, listening to water tumble over mossy rocks while rhododendron crowds the banks. The real draw here is the historic Elkmont community: keep your eyes on the forest floor and you'll spot old stone chimneys, crumbling foundations, and rusted remnants of Daisytown, a logging settlement that the forest has been slowly reclaiming for a century. At under a mile and a half roundtrip, this is a quick out-and-back that rewards curiosity more than cardio. Perfect for history buffs, families with small kids, and anyone who wants Smokies atmosphere without Smokies sweat.