Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail
A scenic, one-way loop through lush forests, past historic cabins, and to stunning waterfalls in the Smokies.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic, one-way loop through lush forests, past historic cabins, and to stunning waterfalls in the Smokies.
"This gorgeous road will transport you to the land of fairies! Now is the perfect time to enjoy a drive."
🚗 Beat the Rush
Arrive early or late to avoid crowds on this popular one-way road. Weekdays are best!
🥾 Hike to Grotto Falls
Don't miss the chance to walk behind this stunning waterfall! Wear water shoes if you plan to splash.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Grotto Falls
Trillium Gap Trail
Hike behind this beautiful 25-foot waterfall for a unique and refreshing experience. Parking is limited!
Place of a Thousand Drips
Along the trail
Witness this impressive cascade tumbling down moss-covered rocks, a true natural wonder.
Historic Cabins & Mills
Various pull-offs
Step back in time exploring preserved log cabins and a historic mill, offering a glimpse into early mountain life.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Embrace the Journey
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Beat the Rush
Arrive early or late to avoid crowds on this popular one-way road. Weekdays are best!
🥾 Hike to Grotto Falls
Don't miss the chance to walk behind this stunning waterfall! Wear water shoes if you plan to splash. 
🐻 Wildlife Spotting
Keep an eye out for black bears! They are often seen along the road and trails. Maintain a safe distance.
⏳ Allow Ample Time
This 5-mile drive can take 2-3 hours with stops. Enjoy the scenery and explore!
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Beat the Rush
Arrive early or late to avoid crowds on this popular one-way road. Weekdays are best!
🥾 Hike to Grotto Falls
Don't miss the chance to walk behind this stunning waterfall! Wear water shoes if you plan to splash.
🐻 Wildlife Spotting
Keep an eye out for black bears! They are often seen along the road and trails. Maintain a safe distance.
⏳ Allow Ample Time
This 5-mile drive can take 2-3 hours with stops. Enjoy the scenery and explore!
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
There are limited services along the trail. Pack essentials for your adventure.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail for its stunning natural beauty, abundant wildlife sightings, and well-preserved historic sites. Many highlight the unique experience of walking behind Grotto Falls and the peaceful atmosphere compared to busier park attractions. Some note that parking can be limited at popular spots and recommend allowing ample time to fully enjoy the drive.
"We absolutely love the roaring fork trail. Lots of things to do like trails, creeks and lookout areas. It was a gorgeous drive. It took us 3 hours to drive around. We also stopped a bunch. They had cool houses in areas which were pretty neat. Saw the place of a thousand drips. I can't wait to come back in the fall."
Skyler Galish
"Drove here today. Before we even got to the trail we’re treated to a bear wandering on the road. Amazing. Within the trail saw another smaller bear which was more camera shy and I did not catch a picture of. Also great views. Loved it!"
Michelle Best
"We enjoyed driving along the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail. It wasn't overly busy on a Thursday morning. We made several stops and explored. My daughter enjoyed splashing and playing in the water. We saw a bear in the woods which was very exciting. The mill and store at the end is a nice place to stop. We found a few treasures and they have a penny press."
Heather Taylor
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The entrance to the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail is located just off the main Gatlinburg Parkway, near the edge of town. It's a convenient drive from downtown Gatlinburg, often taking only 15-20 minutes.
Yes, the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail is a one-way loop road, approximately 5.5 miles long. You cannot drive it in reverse.
From Gatlinburg Parkway (US-441), turn onto Cherokee Orchard Road. This road will lead you directly to the entrance of the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail.
While the road is winding and mountainous, it's generally not considered scary with extreme drop-offs. It's a well-maintained scenic drive suitable for most drivers.
No, the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail is a separate scenic drive located near Gatlinburg, while Cades Cove is in a different part of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail is located within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which does not charge an entrance fee. However, a parking tag is required for any vehicle parked for more than 15 minutes within the park.
The trail is typically open seasonally, from early spring through late fall. It's usually open from dawn until dusk. Always check the official National Park Service website for current operating hours and any potential closures.
No, the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail is not open year-round. It is typically closed during the winter months due to weather conditions.
The trail usually closes for the season around late November or early December and reopens in early spring. Exact dates can vary, so it's best to check the park's official website.
There is no direct admission fee for driving the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail itself. However, a parking tag is required if you plan to stop and park for more than 15 minutes within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Highlights include Grotto Falls (where you can walk behind the water), the Place of a Thousand Drips, historic log cabins, and old mills. The entire drive offers beautiful forest scenery and creek views.
Yes, there are several hiking trails accessible from pull-offs along the motor trail, including the popular Trillium Gap Trail leading to Grotto Falls.
Absolutely! Grotto Falls and the Place of a Thousand Drips are two prominent waterfalls you can experience along the trail.
It's a photographer's paradise! You'll find stunning natural landscapes, cascading waterfalls, historic structures, and potential wildlife sightings. The fall foliage is particularly spectacular.
The drive itself is about 5.5 miles, but with frequent stops to explore, take photos, and hike, you should plan for at least 2-3 hours.
🎫 🐻 Wildlife
Yes, black bears are frequently spotted along the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail. Visitors have reported seeing them right on the road or in the surrounding woods. Remember to keep a safe distance and never feed them.
Besides bears, you might encounter deer, various bird species, and other small forest animals. The diverse ecosystem provides opportunities for wildlife viewing.
If you see a bear, stay in your vehicle or maintain a safe distance of at least 100 yards. Do not approach, feed, or try to get a close-up photo. Make noise to alert the bear to your presence and allow it to move away.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Don't forget to pack snacks and drinks, as services are limited along the route. The historic cabins also offer a fun way to introduce children to the past.📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The dense forest provides opportunities for atmospheric shots, especially on misty mornings. Consider visiting during the fall for vibrant foliage, which transforms the landscape into a painter's palette. Remember to bring a variety of lenses to capture both grand vistas and intricate details. Early morning or late afternoon light will offer the most dramatic and flattering illumination for your shots.🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers
+1 Other trails branch off from the motor road, providing access to different sections of the forest and more secluded natural beauty. The entire drive is enveloped in old-growth forest, with the sounds of rushing water accompanying you for much of the journey. It's an excellent way to immerse yourself in the natural splendor of the Great Smoky Mountains.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Grotto Falls
+1 Remember that parking at the trailhead is limited, so arriving early is highly recommended, especially during peak season. Wear appropriate footwear, as the trail can be damp and rocky. Pro Tip: Some visitors suggest wearing water shoes if you plan to get close to the falls or venture behind them, as the rocks can be slippery.
The trail itself winds through a beautiful old-growth hemlock forest, adding to the magical atmosphere of the experience. Wildlife Encounters on the Trail
Beyond bears, the trail's diverse habitat supports a variety of other creatures. Keep an eye out for deer grazing in meadows, various bird species flitting through the trees, and smaller mammals scurrying about. The dense forest and flowing creeks create an ideal environment for a rich array of wildlife. Always be prepared with your camera, but prioritize responsible wildlife viewing by never approaching or feeding any animals you encounter.
A Glimpse into History
Exploring these historic sites allows you to imagine life without modern conveniences. You can wander through the cabins, see the tools they used, and learn about their agricultural practices. The preserved mill, in particular, offers insight into the importance of water power in the early economy of the area.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit