Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail
A Scenic Drive Through Old-Growth Forest & Mountain History
Slow down and soak in the Smokies on the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail!
This 5.5-mile one-way loop just outside downtown Gatlinburg is one of the most rewarding scenic drives in the park. The narrow, winding road carries you through lush old-growth forest, past rushing streams, and alongside beautifully preserved pieces of Appalachian history.
Along the way you’ll pass historic log cabins and homesteads — the Noah “Bud” Ogle Place, Ephraim Bales Place, and Alfred Reagan Place — plus easy roadside stops. Pull over for the “Place of a Thousand Drips” waterfall, or park at the Trillium Gap trailhead for the short hike to Grotto Falls, the only waterfall in the park you can walk behind.
It’s an easy, low-effort way to experience the deep-forest beauty and history of the Smokies from the comfort of your car — a favorite half-day outing for Smith Creek Resort guests.
Information
Opening Hours
- Open daily during season (typically spring–late fall); closed in winter
No buses, RVs, or trailers permitted
At a Glance
- Type of Experience: Outdoor Adventure, Family Fun
- Best For: Families, Couples, Photographers, Easy sightseeing
- Top Season / Time to Visit: Spring through Fall (peak fall color in October)
The Essentials: What’s Here, What’s Nearby & Why You’ll Love It
From historic cabins to hidden waterfalls, here’s everything you need to plan your drive on the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail. Take it slow, stop often, and let the old-growth forest set the pace.
What You'll Experience
Wind through 5.5 miles of old-growth forest
Visit historic log cabins and homesteads
Stop at the "Place of a Thousand Drips" waterfall
Hike to Grotto Falls (walk behind the falls!)
Catch spectacular fall color in OctoberAmenities & Features
Free scenic drive (parking tag required if you park over 15 min) Numerous roadside pull-offs and short walks Self-guided auto tour booklet available at the entrance Access to Grotto Falls via the Trillium Gap Trail Note: no buses, RVs, or trailers; road closed in winterWhy We Love It
Deep-forest beauty with almost no effort
A living look at Smoky Mountain history
Waterfalls and cabins in one easy loop
One of the most photogenic drives in the parkNearby Attractions
Grotto Falls (Trillium Gap Trailhead) – on the loop Downtown Gatlinburg – ~3 mi Great Smoky Mountains NP (Sugarlands) – ~4 miFrequently Asked Questions
How long does the drive take?
Plan for 1–2 hours to enjoy the 5.5-mile loop with stops at the cabins, waterfalls, and pull-offs.
Can I bring an RV or trailer?
No — the road is narrow and winding, so buses, RVs, and trailers are not permitted.
Is it open all year?
No. The motor trail is seasonal and closes in winter (typically December through March).
What's the best stop for families?
Park at the Trillium Gap trailhead and take the moderate walk to Grotto Falls — the only waterfall in the park you can walk behind.
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) into Gatlinburg and turn at Traffic Light #8 onto Historic Nature Trail Rd. Follow signs past the Rainbow Falls area to the one-way Roaring Fork loop entrance.
Drive time: ~32 minutes
Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail
Off Historic Nature Trail Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA