Introduction
The Laurel Falls trail is an American hiking path in Sevier County, Tennessee, that is part of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The route curves and twists its way up to the falls, covering around 2.6 kilometers round trip. Remember that going down is simpler because it is often downhill. Laurel Falls is one of the park’s most popular pathways because it is a short, paved, and straightforward ascent to the cascade. It is within a few kilometers from Sugar Land. It is widely recognized as one of the best waterfall excursions in the Smoky Mountains.
Laurel falls
Laurel Falls is an 80-foot-tall waterfall. It is divided into two pieces, upper and lower, resulting in a two-tiered chain. When you reach the falls after climbing up, you will cross a little footbridge to the other side of the waterfall. There are several opportunities to get great shots on the bridge or from the other side. In the top section of the falls, you can even drop your toes into the water to feel how chilly it is.
Smoky Mountains Laurel Falls
The Great Smoky Mountains are a natural masterpiece. They are well-known for their diverse wildlife, rich history, and breathtaking natural beauty. It features a national park that attracts millions of people each year and is known for its lush woodlands and spectacular vistas, in addition to its scenic glory.
Laurel Falls Trailhead
Little River Road leads from the Sugarland Visitor Center to Cades Cove. Follow this road for 3.5 miles to the trailhead. Therefore, Parking will be available on both sides of the road for the Laurel Falls Trail. It truly is the beginning of a beautiful trail to spend your day off.
Laurel Falls Trail
The climb to Laurel Falls is 2.3 kilometers roundtrip. The trail is paved, which makes it considerably easier to navigate than many of the other trails in the park. The trail’s elevation rise is about 314 feet. Because of the moderate elevation increase, the climb to the waterfall is steady, leisurely, and reasonable. Some edges along the hiking trail have quite steep drop-offs.
Laurel Falls Hike
The climb to the waterfall is moderately exhausting and covers 2.6 miles roundtrip. It takes approximately two hours to hike. Usually regarded as a reasonably difficult path. This is a prospering bear habitat. Be careful of your surroundings and avoid approaching any wildlife you come across. This trail is one of the most popular in the national park. If you want to avoid crowds, come early or late in the evening.
Laurel Falls Trail Details
- Laurel Falls trail length is 2.3 Miles
- Laurel Falls trail elevation is 314 Feet
Laurel Falls trail map
Attractions near Laurel Falls
Some famous attractions around the Laurel Falls Trail are as follows, Lake Haiyaha is another top destination to visit.
Laurel Creek Falls
Laurel Creek Falls is a roadside waterfall, the dirt and rocks can feel quite slippery at times. The falls have a height of 30 feet and are accessible via a trail that is approximately 0.3 miles round trip. It is also known as Trash Can Falls. Manoa Falls is another beautiful piece of nature art that resembles it.
Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail
The Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail is small and wandering through allowing you to take your time and enjoy the surrounding forest and historic ruins. This picturesque circle is 5 kilometers long. The scenery is stunning, and the chilly weather is thrilling. It’s peaceful to park and explore historic farmhouses while listening to nature.
Linn Run State Park
Linn Run State Park is a 612-acre state park located in Cook and Ligonier Townships, Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania. It has a varied landscape with mixed hardwood and evergreen woods, making it an ideal location for picnics, hiking, and cabin rentals. The park also contains good trout streams formed by the meeting point of Grove and Rock flows.
Laurel House trail – Kaaterskill Falls viewing platform
The Laurel House Trail leads to a viewing platform that offers a stunning view of Kaaterskill Falls, the highest two-tiered waterfall in New York State. This is an easy hike, approximately 0.6 miles round trip, starting from the Laurel House Road parking lot.
Laurel Falls Weather
Laurel Falls experiences a climate with long, hot, and muggy summers, while winters are short and cold. The weather is typically wet and partly cloudy throughout the year. In addition, Snow is likely to fall in the winter season. Waimoku Falls has also the same characteristics.
Laurel Falls Trail Parking
A parking tag is necessary if you park in the Smokies for more than 15 minutes. At the Laurel Falls Trailhead, expect long lines and limited parking. There are no fees or reservations necessary to hike Laurel Falls, and parking is free for all visitors. Lastly, There is parking along both sides of the road. Unless you come before 8 a.m.
Laurel Falls Trail Directions
From Sugarlands Visitor Center, turn toward Cades Cove on Little River Road and drive 3.5 miles to the trailhead where there are parking areas on both sides of the road.
Why is Laurel Falls trail closed?
Laurel Falls Trail (not closed yet) will be closed for a minimum of 18 months beginning sometime in 2024 for upgrades and construction. However, No date is set yet.
Laurel Falls Trail Hotels
The nearby hotels of Laurel Falls trail include Hampton Inn Gatlinburg, Fairfield Inn & Suites, Marshall’s Creek Rest Motel, Margaretville Resort Gatlinburg, Microtel Inn & Suites, and Embassy Suites.
Conclusion
The three-mile mild, somewhat uphill journey to the falls and back is worth it. The trail is in bad shape. Laurel Falls attracts around 375,000 people each year, and the trail surface has degraded significantly over time. The primary reason for this walk’s difficulty is the return hike. The trek leads to a stunning waterfall that is well worth the effort. In short, it is the best place to visit with family on a leisurely day.
