Grotto Falls is a breathtaking and unique waterfall hike nestled in the heart of Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
The Trillium Gap Trail winds through an enchanting old-growth hemlock forest before leading you behind the stunning 25-foot waterfall.
This scenic 2.8-mile hike offers a perfect blend of nature and adventure, making it ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
When planning your summer getaway to the Smokies, don’t miss the chance to complete the Grotto Falls hike!
The cool mist from the waterfall will provide a refreshing relief as you walk behind its cascading waters, making it the perfect escape from the summer heat.
Since it’s a popular destination, be sure to bring plenty of patience and kindness.
Arriving early will help you avoid the crowds and fully immerse yourself in the peaceful beauty of this spectacular natural wonder.
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Grotto Falls: Trail Stats + Map
Grotto Falls Trail Stats
Starting Point: Grotto Falls parking area
Length: 2.8 miles
Elevation Gain: 585 feet
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Hiking Time: 1.5 to 2 hours
Route Type: Out-and-back
Pet-friendly? No, pets are not allowed
Hike Features: Walk-behind waterfall
Grotto Falls Trail Map
Grotto Falls Parking and Directions
🚗 How to Reach the Trailhead
Grotto Falls is located in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park about 6 miles from Gatlinburg (30 minutes’ drive).
Driving Directions:
- From the Gatlinburg Parkway, turn onto the Historic Nature Trail.
- Veer right onto Cherokee Orchard Road then turn onto the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail.
- There will be a small parking area to the left.
🅿️ Grotto Falls Parking Area
The trailhead parking area is located off the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail near Gatlinburg, Tennessee.
Due to this trail’s popularity, the main parking area can fill up fast.
There is additional parking available further up the road. Get there early to get a good parking spot!
🎟️ Don’t forget to purchase a parking tag!
Parking tags are required in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. There are three different tags you can purchase.
Daily pass for $5, weekly pass for $15, or an annual pass for $40. Daily and weekly tags may be purchased online, and annual tags can also be purchased online, or on-site.
Parking tags are NOT required for motorists who pass through the area or who park for less than 15 minutes, or while parked at their designated campsite.
Entrance into the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is FREE, but a parking tag is required.
Find more information about parking tags HERE.
🌲 Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail
To reach the Grotto Falls Trailhead, you’ll take the scenic Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, a 5.5-mile one-way loop road that winds through a stunning old-growth forest.
Along the way, you’ll enjoy peaceful views of mountain streams, historic buildings, and the beauty of the Smokies.
⚠️ There’s a few important things to note:
- The Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail is a narrow, winding, one-way road. Buses, RVs, and large trucks are prohibited on the road.
- This road is closed during winter from December through mid-march.
Grotto Falls Hike: Best Time to Go
Spring and fall are the most ideal times to hike Grotto Falls, but it can be a great experience in any season!
🌷 Spring (March – May)
The forest is green and full of wildflowers, the weather is comfortable for hiking, and the falls are flowing nicely after the spring rains.
☀️ Summer (June – August)
The cool mist from Grotto Falls is a great way to beat the heat.
Just keep in mind, it’s a popular spot, so try to get there early or late to avoid the crowds.
🍂 Fall (September – November)
The fall foliage is stunning with vibrant colorful leaves, and the weather is comfortable for hiking.
The waterfall can still be full after summer rains. Plus, fewer crowds, making it a peaceful time to visit.
☃️ Winter (December – February)
Hiking to Grotto Falls in winter can be a magical experience with fewer crowds.
Just watch out for icy, slippery spots!
❄️ Winter Route: The Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail is closed in the winter, but you can still hike to Grotto Falls from the Rainbow Falls Trailhead. This is a 7-mile roundtrip hike with 1,300 feet of elevation gain.
Grotto Falls Trail Directions
Grotto Falls Trailhead
The trail starts at the end of the parking area on the other side of the road.
Trilium Gap Trail
You will be hiking a very short distance on an access trail until you reach a trail sign pointing you towards Grotto Falls.
You will now be hiking along the Trillium Gap Trail.
This hike can be considered easy for well-fit, experienced hikers.
However, there are a few sets of steps along the way that can get the heart pumping making this hike moderately challenging for some people.
🥾 Next Adventure: Hike the Chimney Tops Trail
Eventually, you will come across a cascade that might trick you into thinking that’s the actual waterfall.
Don’t be fooled, that’s not it!
My husband and I seriously thought that was the waterfall the first time we hiked this trail because we hadn’t looked at pictures of Grotto Falls prior.
Grotto Falls
A short distance after the “fake falls”, you will finally reach Grotto Falls!
It’s a small waterfall, but still beautiful.
The fun part is being able to walk behind it!
I went back and forth behind the waterfall like 6 times.
It was exciting and made me feel like a kid again.
Return to the parking area by retracing your steps.
Congrats, you did it! 🥳
⛰️ Ready to explore more of the Great Smokies? Check out Kuwohi!
Alternate 7-Mile Route
If you are interested in a longer route, start your hike from the Rainbow Falls Trailhead.
Based on the reviews I read, most people prefer the shorter route from the main Grotto Falls Trailhead.
However, this is still a good option if you enjoy peaceful, long walks in nature.
This route is also the only way to reach Grotto Falls in the winter when the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail is closed!
- Length: 7 miles
- Elevation Gain: 1,300 feet
- Difficulty: Moderately challenging
- Route Type: Out-and-back
- Hiking Time: 3.5 to 4.5 hours
- Trail Directions: Start hiking along an access trail until you reach a junction. Take a left onto the Trillium Gap Trail and follow it until you arrive at Grotto Falls.
Tips for Hiking Grotto Falls
1. Start Early: Beat the crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures by starting your hike early in the morning, especially during peak season.
2. Bring Plenty of Water and Snacks: Carry enough water to stay hydrated, especially during warm summer days. Also, bring high-energy snacks to refuel!
3. Footwear and Gear:
- Wear comfortable, sturdy hiking shoes (or boots) with good traction to prevent slipping on wet rocks near the falls.
- Hiking poles can be helpful on rocky sections.
- Wear proper clothing for the season and pack extra layers.
4. Sun Protection: Even though this hike takes you through a shaded forest, it’s always smart to take extra precautions and protect yourself from the sun, so wear sunscreen and SPF lip balm.
5. Be Bear Aware: Black bears are active within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Follow these guidelines to avoid any negative interactions with a black bear.
6. Waterfall Safety: Be cautious of slippery rocks when walking behind Grotto Falls. Don’t attempt to climb or swim near the falls.
7. Respect Nature: Follow Leave No Trace principles – plan ahead, pack out all trash, avoid disturbing wildlife, be considerate of others, and respect the natural beauty of Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Conclusion
The Grotto Falls hike is a must-do when visiting Great Smoky Mountains National Park!
The trail leading to the stunning waterfall is short, family-friendly, and filled with beautiful scenery along the way.
My husband and I loved the unique experience of walking behind the falls.
Whether you’re traveling with kids or solo, Grotto Falls is an unforgettable spot that’s sure to impress.
If this guide inspires you to complete the Grotto Falls hike, I’d love to hear about your adventure.
Leave a comment and share your experience!
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