Laurel Falls
Tennessee • 80 ft
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
2.6 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
314 ft
About Laurel Falls
Laurel Falls is one of the most popular waterfalls in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, located in Tennessee. It is a picturesque, multi-tiered waterfall with a total drop of approximately 80 feet, divided into an upper and lower section.
The Setting
Laurel Falls sits at 2,595 feet within Great Smoky Mountains National Park, in the hills of Tennessee. The falls drop 80 feet.
Height: 80 feet
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Rainbow Falls (80 ft) lies 7.3 miles to the east. Also nearby: Grotto Falls (25 ft, 8.1 mi).
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy 2.6-mile out-and-back trail gains 314 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The Laurel Falls Trail is a paved path that leads to the waterfall, making it accessible for most visitors. The trail is relatively flat with a gentle incline, and it offers scenic views of the surrounding forest. The waterfall itself is a stunning sight, with water cascading over two tiers into a small pool below.
What to Expect
The falls cascade 80 feet.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Laurel Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Laurel Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal times to visit, as the waterfall flow is typically strongest due to seasonal rainfall. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while winter provides a quieter experience with fewer visitors.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited. Check the National Park Service website for current conditions.
Safety Information
The trail can be slippery when wet, and there are steep drop-offs near the waterfall. Stay on the trail and supervise children closely. Be aware of wildlife and do not feed or approach animals.
Current Water Conditions
43 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 3 years of record
2.97 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year.
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge WEST PRONG LITTLE PIGEON R NR GATLINBURG, TN (6 km away).
Today
Moderate
43 cfs
8/10Tomorrow
Moderate
37 cfs
8/10Tue
Moderate
34 cfs
8/10Wed
Moderate
31 cfs
8/10Thu
Moderate
28 cfs
8/10Fri
Moderate
28 cfs
5/10Sat
Moderate
29 cfs
5/10Best window: Today — moderate flow, sunny (trip score 8/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid March to early April, peaking in February.
How we calculate this
This is a transparent outlook, not a precise forecast. We take the waterfall's current flow strength (how it ranks against its historical normal for today, from the nearest USGS stream gauge), carry that ranking forward along the gauge's seasonal curve, and nudge it for forecast rain. Confidence is highest for the next day or two and falls further out. Always check official conditions and your own judgment before visiting — high flows can be dangerous.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Gatlinburg hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
The Terrain, Seen by LiDAR
Aircraft-mounted lasers measured this ground to within inches. Trees and buildings are digitally stripped away, leaving the bare shape of the land the water has carved.
1-meter lidar measures about 285 feet of descent through Laurel Falls, a steep tiered drop rather than a single free fall. That is more than the listed 80 feet because the gorge keeps dropping below the falls themselves. The brink sits at about 2,597 feet above sea level.
Steep ground runs through the entire stretch: about 257 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the pin and 103 feet in the 500 feet below it. Facing southwest, the falls sit in full sun for most of the day, best photographed early or late.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 2,597 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 285 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Southwest
- Sunlit most of the day. Go early or late for softer light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading southwest).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Laurel Falls is located along Little River Road in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The trailhead is about 3.8 miles from the Sugarlands Visitor Center, heading toward Cades Cove.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at the trailhead, but it is limited and fills up quickly, especially during peak seasons. Arrive early to secure a spot.
Elevation
2,595 feet above sea level
Coordinates
35.677461° N, -83.593159° W
Land Management
Managed by NPS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Arrive early to avoid crowds and secure parking. Wear sturdy shoes, as the paved trail can be slippery when wet. Bring water and snacks, and be prepared for limited cell service in the area.
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This easy 2.6 miles hike is straightforward — comfortable trail shoes and plenty of water should do. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.
America the Beautiful Annual Pass
Covers entrance fees at 2,000+ federal recreation sites — required at most National Parks.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.
Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)
Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.
JOBY GorillaPod Starter Kit
Wraps around railings and rocks for long-exposure waterfall shots — no flat surface needed.
Osprey Daylite Daypack
Light, organized, and just the right size for a day hike — fits water, snacks, and layers.
Where to Stay
The Circle Of Life, Hot Tub, Theater Room, 560 FREE tickets each paid day
Smokies Sanctuary - Smoky Mtn A-Frame Hot Tub Mountain Views Firepit
Brookside Lodge - Gatlinburg - On the River
Black Bear Hibernation - A Gorgeous Smoky Mountain Cabin with Mountain Views
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
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Nearby Campground
APPALACHIAN CLUBHOUSE
1.8 miles away · 1 sites
Overview The Appalachian Clubhouse is a historic building constructed in 1934 in the Elkmont Historic District. The structure has been rehabilitated by the National Park Service to closely resemble its 1930's appearance, with the addition of few modern amenities such as electricity and running water. The building was originally used a gathering spot by lessees and guests of the Appalachian Club whose members, mostly from Knoxville, built rustic cabins nearby to serve as weekend or summer retreats
Book on Recreation.govNearby Hot Springs
Hot springs near Townsend, Tennessee
Looking for a soak after your hike? Explore more hot springs near Townsend, Tennessee on SoakingSprings.
Explore Tennessee springsAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include Cades Cove, Clingmans Dome, and the Sugarlands Visitor Center.
Wildlife
The area is home to black bears, deer, and a variety of bird species. Visitors should exercise caution and follow park guidelines for wildlife encounters.
Cities near Laurel Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Other waterfalls named Laurel Falls
5 other waterfalls share this name across the U.S.
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