Hike the Oconaluftee River Trail

This is the Smokies on easy mode, and that's not an insult. The Oconaluftee River Trail is a wide, graveled path that hugs the river from the Oconaluftee Visitor Center toward the town of Cherokee — flat enough that you'll forget you're in one of the most rugged parks east of the Mississippi. The hardwood canopy keeps things shaded, the river soundtrack is constant, and the trail feels more like a greenway than a backcountry path. The real draw? Elk. A herd was reintroduced here in 2001, and they graze the fields along the trail like they own the place — because they do. This is one of only two trails in the entire park where you can bring your dog, which makes it a unicorn for pet owners who are tired of leaving their hiking buddy in the car. Perfect for families, dog walkers, and anyone who wants a gorgeous Smokies experience without breaking a sweat.