+ 24
Grotto Falls
Hiking Trail
Hard
2.57 mi
556 ft
A short hike to a picturesque 25' waterfall that you can walk behind!
Located near Gatlinburg, Grotto Falls is a 2.6-mile round trip hike to a stunning 25' waterfall that you can walk behind! According to the [NPS]( "the cool, moist environment near the falls is ideal for salamanders," and it makes an excellent summer hike for the entire family!
This out-and-back hike begins at stop #5 on the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail. There is a large parking area, though buses, RVs, trailers, and larger vehicles are prohibited on the road. It's also closed during the winter months, so plan this adventure during the summer heat so that you can cool off its refreshing water.
From the trailhead, look for the spur that leads to Trillium Gap Trail. At the junction, keep left, following the trail in a southeasterly direction. The trail actually runs behind the waterfall, making it difficult to get lost.
If you're planning a longer backpacking trip up to Mount LeConte, this is an excellent alternative to the popular Alum Cave Trail. After camping at the summit, you can return via Rainbow Falls Trail, another trail aptly named for the beautiful waterfall you'll visit along the way.
Source:
Written by Brendon Voelker
Located near Gatlinburg, Grotto Falls is a 2.6-mile round trip hike to a stunning 25' waterfall that you can walk behind! According to the [NPS]( "the cool, moist environment near the falls is ideal for salamanders," and it makes an excellent summer hike for the entire family!
This out-and-back hike begins at stop #5 on the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail. There is a large parking area, though buses, RVs, trailers, and larger vehicles are prohibited on the road. It's also closed during the winter months, so plan this adventure during the summer heat so that you can cool off its refreshing water.
From the trailhead, look for the spur that leads to Trillium Gap Trail. At the junction, keep left, following the trail in a southeasterly direction. The trail actually runs behind the waterfall, making it difficult to get lost.
If you're planning a longer backpacking trip up to Mount LeConte, this is an excellent alternative to the popular Alum Cave Trail. After camping at the summit, you can return via Rainbow Falls Trail, another trail aptly named for the beautiful waterfall you'll visit along the way.
Source:
Written by Brendon Voelker
Created By
Strava Routes
Route and Elevation
Segments
| Name | Distance | Elev. Diff. | Avg. Grade |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grotto Falls Hike | 1.37 mi | 528 ft | 7.3% |
| Roaring Fork Rd Climb | 0.23 mi | 138 ft | 10.9% |