Great Smoky Mountains Named #1 National Park for Hiking by Top Shoe Brand
As someone who’s hiked countless trails through the misty valleys and breathtaking ridges of the Great Smoky Mountains over the years, I wasn’t surprised to learn that this majestic landscape has earned top honors from athletic footwear experts. The secret that locals and regular visitors have known for generations is finally getting the national recognition it deserves!
Kuru, a respected athletic shoe brand specializing in footwear for plantar fasciitis sufferers, has officially ranked the Great Smoky Mountains as the #1 Best National Park for Hiking in America. The announcement comes as part of their recent survey of 1,000 Americans conducted in April, which revealed some fascinating insights about our national parks.
Americans Flocking to National Parks in Record Numbers
According to Kuru’s survey, an impressive 36% of Americans have already visited a national park in 2025, with 65% planning to make a trip before the year ends. This surge in outdoor enthusiasm reflects a growing appreciation for America’s natural treasures – something I’ve personally witnessed on the increasingly popular trails throughout the Smokies.
What makes this recognition especially meaningful is that it comes from a company that understands the physical demands of hiking. Kuru’s specialty in creating supportive footwear for plantar fasciitis means they appreciate the importance of trail quality, varied terrain, and overall hiking experience that the Smokies offer in abundance.
Why the Smokies Deserve the #1 Ranking
Having explored these mountains through every season, I can attest to why the Great Smoky Mountains National Park stands above the rest:
- Unmatched Biodiversity: The park hosts more than 19,000 documented species, earning its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Trail Variety: With over 850 miles of trails ranging from gentle nature walks to challenging backcountry treks, there’s something for hikers of every skill level.
- Accessibility: Unlike many remote national parks, the Smokies sit within a day’s drive of about one-third of the U.S. population.
- Year-round Beauty: From spring wildflowers to summer lushness, fall foliage, and winter solitude, each season offers a unique hiking experience.
Must-Hike Trails That Earned This Recognition
If you’re planning your own Smokies adventure, these signature trails showcase why this park earned its top ranking:
| Trail Name | Distance | Difficulty | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alum Cave Trail to Mt. LeConte | 11 miles roundtrip | Moderate to Strenuous | Arch rock, stunning views, unique geological features |
| Charlies Bunion | 8 miles roundtrip | Moderate | Appalachian Trail section with panoramic views |
| Clingmans Dome Observation Tower | 1 mile roundtrip | Easy (but steep) | Highest point in the park with 100-mile visibility on clear days |
| Ramsey Cascades | 8 miles roundtrip | Strenuous | Park’s tallest waterfall surrounded by old-growth forest |
Planning Your Visit to America’s #1 Hiking Destination
If you’re among the 65% planning a national park visit this year, I’d strongly recommend putting the Smokies at the top of your list. The park straddles the Tennessee-North Carolina border and offers multiple entrance points, with popular gateways through Gatlinburg, TN and Cherokee, NC.
Unlike many national parks, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park remains free to enter, making it one of the most accessible natural wonders in America. However, this popularity means planning ahead for accommodations if you’re staying overnight, especially during peak seasons like summer and October.
Footwear Considerations for Smoky Mountain Hikers
It’s fitting that a shoe company recognized the Smokies’ hiking superiority, as proper footwear is essential for enjoying these trails comfortably. The varied terrain – from rocky outcroppings to muddy forest paths – demands supportive, waterproof hiking boots or shoes, particularly for those with foot conditions like plantar fasciitis.
I’ve learned through countless miles on these trails that investing in quality footwear can make the difference between a memorable adventure and a painful ordeal. Kuru’s recognition of this park suggests they understand this connection between proper foot support and enjoying America’s best hiking destinations.
Join the Movement to Our National Parks
The survey’s finding that over a third of Americans have already visited a national park this year reflects a growing appreciation for outdoor adventures and natural preservation. As someone who’s witnessed the healing power of these mountains firsthand, I can only encourage more people to experience what makes the Great Smoky Mountains worthy of its #1 ranking.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker seeking challenging trails or a family looking for accessible natural experiences, the Smokies offer unparalleled opportunities to connect with nature. And with proper footwear supporting every step, you’ll be able to fully appreciate why this magnificent landscape earned its crown as America’s best hiking destination.