Laurel Falls

Great Smoky Mountains National Park featuring autumn colours and forests
Great Smoky Mountains National Park featuring a river or creek and a cascade
Great Smoky Mountains National Park which includes forests
Laurel Falls featuring a waterfall and forests as well as a small group of people
Great Smoky Mountains National Park featuring tranquil scenes, forests and mountains


Bring the kids on a serene and easy paved trail to reach some of the most stunning cascades in the mountainous park.

Laurel Falls is a lovely waterfall at the end of its namesake hiking trail on Cove Mountain. The 80-foot (24-meter) cascade is one of the highlights of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Marvel at the powerful force of the water as it spreads across several layers of rock and tumbles into the gorge below.

Due to the popularity of the trailhead, the first 1.3 miles (2.1 kilometers) of the path is paved with dark concrete, providing a moderate journey to Laurel Falls for the entire family. Note, however, that portions of the trail have steep drop-offs. Check the regular wooden posts to see how far you are from the waterfall. Bring food along to enjoy a picnic in the dense woodland.

Listen for the roar of the crashing water as you begin to approach the towering waterfall. When you reach the falls, admire the multi-level cascades and feel the cool mist in your face.

If you want more exercise, continue along the steeper upper section of the trail, which delves into dense woodland filled with ancient trees. In springtime, pink rhododendrons provide a flowery canopy. Complete the trek and take care as you approach the base of the historic lookout tower on Cove Mountain. The tower is no longer safe to climb however, you can appreciate the serenity of this peaceful spot.

The cascade takes its name from the evergreen laurel shrub that decorates the scenic woodlands. The trail was created in 1932 to allow fire services to reach Cove Mountain in case of a forest fire. Hike to these popular falls in the morning to avoid the crowds and have good lighting for photographs. Note that the trail is paved, but it is considered too rough for strollers or wheelchairs.

Laurel Falls is in the northwestern section of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Drive 8 miles (13 kilometers) southwest from Gatlinburg, which will take roughly 20 minutes. Visit other landmarks in the park, such as the Sugarlands Visitor Center, Cataract Falls and Little River.

Popular places to visit


Top Laurel Falls Hotel Deals

The Park Vista - a DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel - Gatlinburg

The Park Vista - a DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel - Gatlinburg

4 out of 5
705 Cherokee Orchard Road, Gatlinburg, TN
The Park Vista - a DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel - Gatlinburg
Sidney James Mountain Lodge

Sidney James Mountain Lodge

2.5 out of 5
610 Airport Road, Gatlinburg, TN
Sidney James Mountain Lodge
Glenstone Lodge

Glenstone Lodge

3.5 out of 5
504 Historic Nature Trl, Gatlinburg, TN
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Two Bed Room Condo Mountain Views Indoor Pool

Two Bed Room Condo Mountain Views Indoor Pool

2 out of 5
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Two Bed Room Condo Mountain Views Indoor Pool
Gatlinburg Town Square by Exploria Resorts

Gatlinburg Town Square by Exploria Resorts

2.5 out of 5
515 Historic Nature Trail, Gatlinburg, TN
Gatlinburg Town Square by Exploria Resorts
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Gatlinburg, TN

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Gatlinburg, TN

2.5 out of 5
Gatlinburg
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Gatlinburg, TN
Comfort Suites Gatlinburg Downtown-Convention Center

Comfort Suites Gatlinburg Downtown-Convention Center

2.5 out of 5
321 Reagan Drive, Gatlinburg, TN
Comfort Suites Gatlinburg Downtown-Convention Center
Laurel Point Resort

Laurel Point Resort

2.5 out of 5
805 Ski Mountain Rd, Gatlinburg, TN
Laurel Point Resort
SureStay Plus Hotel by Best Western Gatlinburg

SureStay Plus Hotel by Best Western Gatlinburg

2.5 out of 5
218 Ski Mountain Road, Gatlinburg, TN
SureStay Plus Hotel by Best Western Gatlinburg
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