Laurel Falls Trailhead
An Easy Walk to the Smokies’ Favorite Waterfall
Take the family to the Smokies' most popular waterfall hike — Laurel Falls!
This is the perfect first Smoky Mountain hike: a paved trail of about 2.6 miles round-trip that leads to a beautiful 80-foot two-tiered waterfall. The moderate grade and short distance make it a favorite for families, and the payoff — Laurel Falls tumbling over the rocks — is well worth the walk.
The trail winds through pine-oak forest with pretty mountain views along the way, and mountain laurel blooms line the path in spring. Because it’s paved and popular, it’s a wonderful introduction to hiking in the park — though the trail is narrow with some drop-offs, so keep little ones close.
Easy to reach and endlessly rewarding, Laurel Falls is the hike Smith Creek Resort families ask about again and again — a short, scenic adventure the whole group can enjoy.
Information
Opening Hours
- 24/7, year-round (a Park It Forward parking tag is required)
At a Glance
- Type of Experience: Outdoor Adventure, Family Fun
- Best For: Families, First-time hikers, Couples
- Top Season / Time to Visit: All-Year Round (spring for full water flow)
The Essentials: What’s Here, What’s Nearby & Why You’ll Love It
From an easy paved path to a stunning waterfall finish, here’s everything you need to plan your hike to Laurel Falls. Arrive early, take your time, and enjoy one of the park’s most family-friendly trails.
What You'll Experience
Reach the beautiful 80-ft Laurel Falls
Follow an easy, paved ~2.6-mile round-trip trail
See mountain laurel blooms in late spring
Walk through peaceful pine-oak forest
Snap photos at the falls' upper and lower tiersAmenities & Features
Free to hike (Park It Forward parking tag required) Paved trail — great for a first hike (still narrow, with drop-offs) Roadside trailhead parking (fills early — arrive at sunrise) Nearest restrooms at Sugarlands Visitor Center Note: pets and bicycles are not permitted on the trailWhy We Love It
The best beginner-friendly waterfall hike in the park
Short and rewarding for families
Beautiful in every season
A picture-perfect payoff at the fallsNearby Attractions
Sugarlands Visitor Center – ~3.5 mi Little River Road (scenic drive) – adjacent Downtown Gatlinburg – ~6 miFrequently Asked Questions
How long and hard is the hike?
It’s about 2.6 miles round-trip on a paved path with a moderate uphill grade — roughly 1.5–2 hours at an easy pace.
Is it stroller- or wheelchair-friendly?
Although paved, the trail is narrow, uneven in spots, and has steep drop-offs, so it isn’t recommended for strollers or wheelchairs.
Do I need a parking tag?
Yes — a Park It Forward parking tag is required ($5 day / $15 week / $40 year). The lot fills quickly, so arrive early.
Can I bring my dog?
No — pets are not allowed on park trails.
What Guests Are Saying About the Attractions
Stay Close to the Adventure
After an evening of magic under the stars, come home to one of our Great Smoky Mountains cabins pet friendly and perfect for unwinding. Whether you’re traveling with a partner, family, or furry friend, Smith Creek Resort offers cozy options and spacious retreats to suit every group. Just a short drive from Elkmont, it’s your gateway to one of the best Smoky Mountain vacations.
Getting There from Smith Creek Resort
Route: Take the Parkway (US-441 S) to Gatlinburg, continue to Sugarlands, then turn onto Little River Road toward Elkmont/Townsend. The trailhead is about 3.5 miles up at Fighting Creek Gap, with parking on both sides.
Drive time: ~40 minutes
Laurel Falls Trailhead
Little River Rd, Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA