Enjoy it while visiting Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Tennessee
Laurel Falls, a renowned trail within the park, derives its name from the beautiful mountain laurel shrub that flourishes throughout the area. It is a well-liked trail, consisting of two sections: the upper and lower parts. These sections are separated by a walkway situated at the base of the upper falls. Impressively, these falls measure 80 feet in height. While the total distance of the round-trip hike is merely 2.6 miles, it typically takes approximately two hours to complete due to the rugged and uneven terrain as well as the steep incline. Given its popularity, the trail remains busy all year round, particularly on weekends and during the peak summer season.
The trail received mixed reviews from hikers. While some found it easy and enjoyed the beautiful scenery, others considered it somewhat dangerous due to steep drop-offs without handrails and the rocky terrain. Nonetheless, everyone agreed that it offered incredible photo opportunities, particularly during May and June when the laurel blooms. It’s worth noting that parking might be limited, requiring additional walking to reach the trailhead. Additionally, visitors should be cautious of bears in the area and carry bear spray, while avoiding leaving food along the trail.