Last updated: July 17, 2024
Thing to Do
Hike to Laurel Falls
![A two-tiered waterfall framed by greenery. Hiker icon in lower right corner.](/common/uploads/cropped_image/primary/EBE748F4-A6E4-B9A0-E30092F9CF99D6FA.jpg?width=1300&quality=90&mode=crop)
Smokies Life Photo
Overview
Expect extreme crowding and limited parking—alternate hikes listed below
Hike 2.6 miles (4.2 km) roundtrip through a mixed hardwood forest to an 80-foot (24-m) waterfall in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. On the way, enjoy dense mountain laurel and rhododendron plus a few views of the mountain landscape before arriving at the waterfall.
Parking near the trailhead is available on both sides of Little River Road 3 miles (4.8 km) west of Sugarlands Visitor Center, though these parking lots are often full due to this trail's popularity.
Length
2.6 miles (4.2 km) roundtrip
Parking (consider a shuttle)
Laurel Falls Trailhead on Little River Road
Nearest Restroom
Alternate Hikes
- Hike the Little River, Cucumber Gap, Jakes Creek Loop: 5.4 miles (8.7 km) roundtrip
- Hike to Grotto Falls: 4 miles (6.4 km) roundtrip
- Hike to Lynn Camp Prong Cascades: 1.4 miles (2.3 km) roundtrip
The Gatlinburg Trail and Oconaluftee River Trail are the only two park trails where pets are permitted. Pets are also allowed in picnic areas, in campgrounds, and on roads.
A parking tag is required to park in the Smokies for more than 15 minutes.