Grotto Falls Trillium Gap Trail, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
About the Business
Grotto Falls is a picturesque 25-foot high waterfall located along the Trillium Gap Trail in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. This beautiful natural wonder is nestled within an old-growth hemlock forest, providing a cool and moist environment that is perfect for salamanders and hikers alike. The 3-mile roundtrip hike to the falls is considered moderate in difficulty, offering a scenic adventure for nature enthusiasts.
Access to Grotto Falls is available via the Trillium Gap Trail on the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail. Visitors can park at stop #5 on the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, where there is a large parking area. It is important to note that the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail is a narrow, winding, one-way road that is closed in winter, and large vehicles such as buses and RVs are prohibited.
Visitors are advised to carry drinking water and wear sturdy hiking shoes, as portions of the trail can be rocky. Climbing on rocks near the waterfall is strictly prohibited due to safety concerns, as the rocks can be slippery from mist and algae. It is also important to closely supervise children and be aware of the potential presence of black bears in the area.
Please note that pets and bicycles are not allowed on the trail to Grotto Falls. The only two trails in the park that allow pets are the Gatlinburg Trail near the Sugarlands Visitor Center and the Oconaluftee River Trail near the Oconaluftee Visitor Center. For more information on pet restrictions in the park, visitors are encouraged to inquire with park staff.
Photos
Location & Phone number
Trillium Gap Trail, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, United States
Hours open
Monday:
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday:
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday:
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday:
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday:
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday:
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday:
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Reviews
"Great waterfall but crowded! We had to park all the way down half a mile away from the trail. So depending on the person the trail is easy to moderate."
"Easy hike! Family friendly. The kids did great. Spotted a bear! We loved walking behind the waterfall. Definitely recommend bringing water and snacks along. Parking can be tricky, but we lucked out and got a spot as someone was leaving."
"Gorgeous hike! There is a bit of parking but as with most nearby hikes, get to the trailhead early! The way in is mostly uphill with a few small “waterfalls” along the way. The trail is very easy to follow. We saw 1 bear very close to the trail and others on the trail said they saw more! The falls are easily accessible and you can reach your hand or head in to cool off. There is a restroom at the parking lot"
"“Is it worth it?” That’s the most frequent question we’re typically asked while making our way back down the trail. In my opinion, it absolutely is! The 25 foot waterfall is really pretty and even the areas leading up to the fall are beautiful. I’m a local photographer and found it hard to put my camera down! Be prepared for a bit of an incline on the way up. During the first half of the hike up my husband and I work up a sweat, but the trail seemed to get easier the closer we got to Grotto Falls. We found the trip down to be a breeze. For those who have a fear of heights like me, this may be a good trail to challenge yourself! Although you can tell you’re pretty high at some points, the walking paths are wide and there was never a moment that I felt scared. Laurel Falls used to be one of my most recommended trails, but Grotto is definitely taking that place! Just remember to go early to beat the crowds!"
"This is one of the most underrated hikes in GSMNP! It’s relatively short and not technically challenging. With great payoff. The waterfall and the river are absolutely beautiful. Being able to walk behind the water is really neat. We got here very early in the morning and had the falls to ourselves for a couple of minutes. It got crowded quickly afterward. Enjoy!"
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