Post Summary – Laurel Falls Smoky Mountains
If you’ve ever searched “best waterfalls in the Smokies,” chances are Laurel Falls Smoky Mountains came up at the top of the list. And for good reason. With an 80-foot waterfall, easy access from Gatlinburg, and a paved (yet a little rugged) trail that doesn’t require a full-day commitment, Laurel Falls is a must-hike for visitors of all levels.
Whether you’re visiting with your family, squeezing in a morning hike before brunch, or just want a quick taste of what Great Smoky Mountains National Park has to offer, Laurel Falls Trail lives up to the hype. Here’s everything you need to know before you go—including trail tips, parking, and what to pack.
⚠️ Heads up! As of now, Laurel Falls Smoky Mountains is temporarily closed for restoration. But it’s still one of the park’s most iconic hikes and definitely one to bookmark for your next visit. Check the NPS site or AllTrails for reopening updates.
SEE ALSO: Best Hikes in the Smokies
Why It’s Called Laurel Falls
Laurel Falls Trail is named after the mountain Laurel that lines the trail. It’s the delicate white-and-pink blooms you’ll find in late spring (usually May through June). Hiking through these blooming tunnels feels like walking through a living art gallery or botanical garden.
Even when not in bloom, the trail is shaded, peaceful, and filled with that classic Smokies charm. I love that it’s so accessible, and allows anyone to really experience hiking in the Smokies without having to complete a super demanding hike.
Where to Find Laurel Falls Smoky Mountains
This trail is located right off Little River Road, between the Sugarlands Visitor Center and Elkmont Campground, only a 10-minute drive from downtown Gatlinburg. This makes it super convenient for day-trippers and people staying nearby.
Trailhead Address:
📍 107 Sugarlands Trail, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Pro Tip: There’s no cell service in most of the park, including this area, so screenshot or download your map before heading out.
Trail Overview: Distance + Difficulty
The trail is 2.6 miles round trip and rated easy to moderate. Don’t be fooled by the paved path though. It’s narrow, uneven in spots, and cracked in several places thanks to tree roots and time (Which is what I think the current renovations is going to fix!).
Expect a few inclines that’ll get your heart rate up, but it’s nothing wild. Most people, kids included, can handle it just fine. That said, it’s not stroller- or wheelchair-friendly, and you’ll want to keep a close eye on little ones, especially near drop-offs.
How Long Does It Take?
Plan for 1.5 to 2 hours round-trip, depending on how long you spend at the falls. If you’re hiking with kids, snapping photos, or just soaking it all in, go ahead and block off the full two hours.
And trust me, you’ll want time to hang out at the waterfall; it’s breath-taking!
Parking Tips: Read This Before You Go
Okay, I’m not going to sugarcoat it: parking at Laurel Falls Smoky Mountains is a challenge if you don’t get there early. The parking lot is small, and most (if not all) spots are gone by 8:00 a.m. most days during peak season.
Here’s how to win the parking game:
- Arrive before 8:00 a.m. (or after 4:00 p.m.)
- Visit on weekdays when possible
- Avoid weekends and holidays
- Use the park’s shuttle if available
- Always park legally—rangers do ticket!
Trail Conditions + Safety
While it’s one of the most accessible trails in the park, Laurel Falls still requires some caution. The pavement is cracked in many areas, and the incline can be a little slick after rain. The footbridge near the falls is narrow, and the rocks around the pool are slippery.
Also: this is bear country. Black bears are often spotted in the area, especially in the early mornings or evenings. Keep food sealed, don’t approach wildlife, and make sure you follow all posted park safety guidelines.
What to Bring:
- Water (no refill stations)
- Bug spray + sunscreen
- Good hiking shoes (with grip!)
- Small backpack for hands-free hiking
- A light snack (pack it out!)
- Your phone or camera (you’ll want it)
SEE ALSO: What to pack when hiking
The Payoff: Laurel Falls
When you reach Laurel Falls Smoky Mountains you’ll be faced with an 80-foot, two-tiered waterfall, with a footbridge that crosses between the upper and lower cascades. It’s been gracing postcards and guidebooks for decades—and once you’re there, you’ll see why.
Swimming isn’t allowed, and it’s not safe to climb the rocks. But the experience of standing beside this iconic cascade? 100% worth the hike.
Even if the trail is closed during your visit, Laurel Falls Smoky Mountains should still be on your Smoky Mountains wishlist. It’s a perfect mix of accessible and awe-inspiring, and a reminder that you don’t have to climb 10 miles to experience something magical in nature.
When it reopens, go early, bring your essentials, and soak in one of the most iconic views in the entire national park. Sure, you’ll share it with a few other groups of people, but when the sun hits that cascading water just right, you’ll forget all about the crowds.
📸 Pro tip: Snap your pics, then just pause for a moment. Let the sounds of the falls, the birds, and the breeze remind you why you came to the Laurel Falls Smoky Mountains in the first place.
See you on the trail. 💦🌲