Trillium Gap Trail

Trillium Gap Trail - Grotto Falls

Trillium Gap Trail meanders through an old-growth hemlock forest and actually runs behind the 25 foot high waterfall. The cool, moist environment near the falls is ideal for salamanders and summer hikers. The hike is 3 miles round-trip and considered moderate in difficulty.

Access trail: Trillium Gap Trail on the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail.

Total Elevation Gain:             585 Feet

Round-trip Length:                Around 3 Miles

To View more images and info related to Grotto Falls

Click here : Grotto Falls in Smoky

Trail-head: From the parkway in Gatlinburg, turn at traffic light #8 and follow Historic Nature Trail into Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Take Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail to stop #5 where there is a large parking area. Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail is a narrow, winding, one-way road that is closed in winter. Buses, RVs, and large trucks are prohibited on the road. Note: In 2015, Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail will be open May 1- November 30.

Trail Notes: The round-trip distance to the Grotto waterfall is 3 miles and the hike is generally considered moderate in difficulty. It takes about 2-3 hours to hike to the waterfall and back.

At 1.2 miles hikers will reach a tumbling cascade. Just beyond this point, looking upstream, Grotto Falls will come into view for the first time.

Carry drinking water with you. Portions of this trail are rocky-sturdy hiking shoes are recommended. Do not attempt to hike the trail in sandals or flip flops. Pets and bicycles are prohibited on the trail.

If you still continue for another two miles to visit the summit of Brushy Mountain, or continue on for another 5.6 miles to reach the 6593-foot summit of Mt. LeConte. Both destinations offer outstanding views of the surrounding mountains.