The Appalachian Trail is one of the most epic hikes in all of America. This iconic 2,190-mile hike that spans across 14 states is a daunting task for many and a distant dream for others. I can confidently say this trail is far above my capabilities, but I admire those who make the adventurous journey. I have, however, been fortunate enough to experience sections of the trail in many different states even hitting some of the high points along the way. The Appalachian Trail in Tennessee is very close to where I live now so I have had the privilege of traversing in the footsteps of those brave through hikers. So if you are like me, looking to dip your toes into the long-distance trail, here are some of the best places to hike the Appalachian Trail in Tennessee, without hiking the whole trail. 

I will highlight three of my favorite spots in Tennessee to enjoy the AT. The first one is one of the most iconic places in The Great Smoky Mountains National Park called Kowohi (Formerly known as Clingmans Dome). This observation tower is at the highest point in the Smokies so naturally offers some of the best views in the park. Having unobstructed 360-degree views of the mountains will give you the thrill and feel of an AT hiker. 

The path for the Appalachian Trail crosses right in front of Kowohi and many through hikers even stop to admire the view. If you are looking to nab a few photos then you should know you can drive up the mountain and take the short paved trail to the tower. If you are feeling a bit adventurous you can even hop on the AT and hike a point-to-point trail leading to the Newfound Gap. From here another great option is the Charlies Bunion Trail with arguably one of the best views on a hiking trail in the Smokies. 

Next up is a hidden gem found in a little town in East Tennessee called Hampton. Laurel Falls seems to be a very popular name for a waterfall since there are multiple waterfalls in the state with the same name, but this one is located in the Cherokee National Forest. The AT winds in and out of the trail system in this forest which means there are plenty of ways to find your way to this amazing waterfall. I have hiked to this waterfall from two different ways and both offer incredible trails through the national forest. The waterfall itself is a peaceful haven for any through hiker or casual waterfall chaser to enjoy the view. The breathtaking streams of water flow down the wet black rock creating a wonderful contrast I could sit and watch for hours. 

I saved one of the best for last because Roan Mountain is known as the prettiest section of the Appalachian Trail. I know I haven't seen every bit of the AT but I can assure you this is one of the prettiest places I have ever been. There is no other trail than to hike the very same path as the Appalachian Trail which feels humbling when I see a grizzled hiking veteran zoom by me with a fifty-pound backpack. The view however is one of the most glorious scenes in all of Tennessee. You can drive up to the North Carolina border from Roan Mountain State Park and hike up to what is known as Round Bald, but you can also continue the path to places like Jane Bald and Grassy Ridge Bald for unfathomable views. If you love hiking then this spot alone is worth the trip from wherever in the country you call home. 

The Appalachian Trail in Tennessee offers up a plethora of amazing sights and sounds but there are no rules against enjoying it in little slivers. If you only get out every so often then these three spots are well worth the visit. If you want to experience this iconic trail in smaller sections I would suggest getting the AllTrails app, as this has always been helpful to me in exploring all of the areas mentioned above. If you happen to be one of those thru hikers who has what it takes to traverse the mountains like they are your personal stepping stool then I congratulate you. I have much respect for those who take on such a massive challenge and maybe one day I will be just like you.