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 visit Grotto Falls. 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.
Hiking Stony Man: Overview
Trailhead Location: Located off the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail near Gatlinburg, Tennessee.
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
Hike Features: Walk-behind waterfall
Directions and Parking
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.
Parking Area: 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!
Parking Tags
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 HERE and annual tags can be purchased online HERE, 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.
Road Conditions: the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail is a narrow, winding, one-way road. Buses, RVs, and large trucks are prohibited on the road.
Winter Closure: As mentioned above, this road is closed during the winter from December through mid-March.
Best Time to Hike Grotto Falls
Spring and fall are the most ideal times to hike Grotto Falls, but it can be a great experience in any season!
Spring (April to June): 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 (July to 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.
✨ READ THIS: 15 Ways to Avoid Crowds in the Great Outdoors
Fall (September to 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 to March): 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.
Tips for Hiking Grotto Falls
Start Early: Beat the crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures by starting your hike early in the morning, especially during peak season.
Bring Plenty of Water & Snacks: Carry enough water to stay hydrated, especially during warm summer days. Also, bring high-energy snacks to refuel!
Footwear and Gear: Make sure you wear comfortable, sturdy hiking shoes (or boots) with good traction to prevent slipping on wet rocks near the falls. Also, hiking poles can be helpful on rocky sections. Make sure you wear proper clothing for the season and pack extra layers.
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.
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.
Waterfall Safety: Be cautious of slippery rocks when walking behind Grotto Falls. Don’t attempt to climb or swim near the falls.
Leave No Trace: Stay on the trail, pack out all trash, and avoid picking plants or disturbing wildlife. Help keep the Great Smoky Mountains pristine for future hikers.
Trail Directions
Grotto Falls Trailhead
The trail starts at the end of the parking area on the other side of the road.
Trillium 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.
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! 🥳
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.
Conclusion
Grotto Falls is a must-see destination in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park! The hike to this 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 hike Grotto Falls, I’d love to hear about your adventure. Leave a comment and share your experience!
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