As of January 6, 2025, Laurel Falls Trail is closed from the trailhead on Fighting Creek Gap Road to the junction with Little Greenbrier and Cove Mountain trails for about 18 months of rehabilitation work.
Laurel Falls trail is one of the most popular trails in the park as it's a short, paved and easy hike to the falls. It’s only a few miles from Sugarlands Visitor Center, right outside Gatlinburg. Bring the whole family as the path is stroller and walker-friendly although the pavement is rough on the edges and some parts of the trail can be steep. At 1.3 miles, you will reach Laurel Falls which is a vigorous 75' waterfall divided in the middle by the trail and a pleasant pool and is one of the most-photographed spots in all of the Smokies for good reason. There is a newly built, sturdy bridge to walk across the divided waterfall. From here you can turn around and hike back to your car or continue past the falls for another 2.7 miles as the trail climbs through Eastern hemlock woods along packed dirt. At 3.1 miles the trail meets with Little Greenbrier Trail which goes left to Wear Cove Gap. Continue hiking for another .9 miles where the trail joins with Cove Mountain Trail which runs along the park boundary back to Sugarlands Visitor Center.
Please keep in mind bicycles and dogs are NOT allowed on this trail and a parking pass is required when parking longer than 15 minutes at the trailhead.
Trail Info:
Region: Elkmont Length: 4.0 miles (1.3 miles to Laurel Falls) Rated: Moderate Elevation Gain: 1700 ft Route Type: Out & Back or Point-to-Point
Features:
Hiking, Waterfall, Forest, Wildflowers, Wildlife, No Dogs, Popular
