![]() ![]() However, the path is rather steep and uneven in places, so it is not suitable for persons in wheelchairs. These mountain shrubs bloom in the late spring creating a beautiful setting.īecause the hike to Laurel Falls was so popular, the park service decided to pave this trail to limit damaging erosion. This waterfall hike in Gatlinburg gets its name for the abundance of mountain laurel that grows by the trailside. This accessible waterfall hike near Gatlinburg is easily one of the most popular waterfalls in the national park.Īnd for good reason: this lovely waterfall hike features beautiful areas of hardwood forest, stunning mountain views, and a multi-tiered waterfall. From here, Grotto Falls is only a 1.3 mile walk through a beautiful section of forest filled with old-growth Hemlocks. The Trillium Gap Trailhead begins at Cherokee Orchard, but motorists can turn right onto the Roaring Fork Motor Trail and drive further to shorten their hike. The hiking trail to this Gatlinburg waterfall is the Trillium Gap Trail.ĭirections: Drive 6 miles on Historic Nature Trail into the national park. In the warm summer months, Grotto Falls is a nice place to cool off, since the mist from the falls creates a natural air-conditioning effect. The trail to the falls goes through a small grotto that's been carved out by years or erosion and rock falls. This famous sight offers visitors the chance to walk underneath a waterfall. If you have more time and energy, you can continue another 4.2 miles to reach the summit of Mt. The hike to Rainbow Falls is 2.6 miles on the Rainbow Falls Trail. LeConte.ĭirections: To reach the falls, drive to the parking area at Cherokee Orchard, one of the first stops on the Roaring Fork Motor Trail. Of all the Gatlinburg falls, this one is particularly lovely and is located on the picturesque slopes of Mt. This 80 Ft waterfall tumbles down a steep rock-face and is even more spectacular after periods of rain. The aptly named Rainbow Falls is known for the beautiful colors created by the light passing through this waterfall's mist. The parking area for the waterfall will be on the left. This pleasant hike takes visitors to the 18 Ft tall Meigs Creek Cascades, another lovely waterfall in the park.ĭirections: From Gatlinburg, drive the Little River Gorge Road towards Cades Cove for 13.5 miles. There's no hiking to enjoy this waterfall, though the Meigs Creek Trail does begin at the Sinks if you'd like a peaceful walk in the woods. If you plan on swimming at the Sinks, be very cautious as this area has strong currents that have drowned swimmers that strayed too close to the falls. Not only did this alter the course of the river and create a uniquely shaped waterfall, but it also created a deep pool that's ideal for swimming. When the Smoky Mountains were logged before the formation of the national park, the riverbed below the sinks was dynamited to break up a log jam. The Sinks is one of the most unusual waterfalls in the park. Since this sight is easy to access, the falls can often be crowded, so it's best to visit the Sinks early to get the best views of the waterfall. The Sinks is one of the only waterfalls in Gatlinburg that you can drive to. Start planning a great day of seeing gorgeous waterfalls in Gatlinburg and the Smokies! Pets and bicycles are prohibited on the trail.Gatlinburg and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park are known for having some of the most beautiful waterfalls in the South.ĭon't miss out on seeing the top waterfalls in this incredible part of the country. ![]() Portions of the trail can get very rocky and uneven so sturdy hiking shoes are also recommended. Remember it is important to drink plenty of water for any hike into the mountains. Both summits will offer some of the most rewarding views of the area. Two miles away from the falls is the Brushy Mountain summit and 5.6 miles from the waterfall is the trail to reach the Mt. It also makes for a nice spot to look for salamanders. This provides a unique experience and allows for a cool and misty break area for summer hikers. This waterfall is unique, as it’s the only fall in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park that has a walking path directly behind it. After about a mile into the trail, hikers will come across a tumbling cascade where by looking upstream Grotto Falls will come into view in the distance. The full hike of Grotto Falls trail will be a moderate climb through a wide worn out path that will put you in a peaceful state of mind as you cross four small streams. During the month of May, you will also see an array of wildflowers ranging from white and yellow trillium, to white violets and stitchwort. During your hike of Grotto Falls trail you will follow the Trillium Gap trail as it cuts through a forest filled with large hemlock trees. ![]()
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