Trillium Gap Trail Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Hike through an ancient forest to walk behind the stunning 25-foot Grotto Falls. A magical Smokies experience!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking
Trillium Gap Trail Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike through an ancient forest to walk behind the stunning 25-foot Grotto Falls. A magical Smokies experience!
"The waterfall at the end is absolutely worth it. You can walk underneath it, which was a hit with everyone."
🎯 Arrive Early for Parking
Limited parking means arriving by 7:30 AM is crucial for a spot. Weekdays are best! :car:
👟 Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
The trail is uneven with rocks, roots, and small stream crossings. Waterproof shoes are recommended. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Grotto Falls
End of Trillium Gap Trail
Walk behind this stunning 25-foot waterfall for a unique, misty experience. A true highlight for all ages!
Old-Growth Hemlock Forest
Trillium Gap Trail
Immerse yourself in a magical, often misty, forest with ancient hemlock trees. A truly enchanting atmosphere.
Llama Treks (Seasonal)
Trillium Gap Trail
Occasionally, llamas are available for guided treks along this scenic route. Check availability for a unique adventure!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds to Grotto Falls
Gear Up for a Scenic Trek
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Parking
Limited parking means arriving by 7:30 AM is crucial for a spot. Weekdays are best! :car:
👟 Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
The trail is uneven with rocks, roots, and small stream crossings. Waterproof shoes are recommended. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
It's a manageable hike, but staying hydrated and fueled makes the journey more enjoyable. :water_wave:
🚶♀️ Walk Behind Grotto Falls
Don't miss the chance to experience the waterfall from behind! It's a magical and memorable moment. :sparkles:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Parking
Limited parking means arriving by 7:30 AM is crucial for a spot. Weekdays are best! :car:
👟 Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
The trail is uneven with rocks, roots, and small stream crossings. Waterproof shoes are recommended. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
It's a manageable hike, but staying hydrated and fueled makes the journey more enjoyable. :water_wave:
🚶♀️ Walk Behind Grotto Falls
Don't miss the chance to experience the waterfall from behind! It's a magical and memorable moment. :sparkles:
🚗 Be Patient on the Road
The single-lane road to the trailhead can be slow, especially if you encounter slower vehicles. :traffic_light:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the magical experience of walking behind Grotto Falls and the beauty of the old-growth forest. The trail is considered manageable for most, though parking is a significant challenge. Some find the drive on the single-lane road to be slow.
"A wonderfully maintained trail that is very popular. There are a lot of options from here and the most popular is the Mile and a half hike to grotto falls. It is a study inclined but not too rough. The height that continues to trillium Gap is beautiful a bit steeper and gives you tons of options towards the top with a very neat atmosphere.
There are other trails in the area but the one lane road is a slow challenge especially if there's broken down car."
Brandon Brown
"Trillium Gap Trail – Family-Friendly Waterfall Hike
We did this hike with a group of nine, including a 3-year-old. I wouldn’t call it hard if you’re semi-fit — just bring some water and take your time. It’s long enough to feel like a real hike, but definitely manageable for families.
About 5–10 minutes in, our little one didn’t want to walk anymore, so I carried him the rest of the way on my shoulders. If I can do the whole trail like that, most people can handle it without too much trouble.
The trail is scenic but uneven — expect rocks, roots, and a few small river crossings (three total). Make sure to wear solid hiking shoes, and definitely ones you don’t mind getting wet. It’s not dangerous, just a bit rugged in spots.
The waterfall at the end is absolutely worth it. You can walk underneath it, which was a hit with everyone in our group. We took a long break there, dipped our toes in the water, and enjoyed the view. The hike back down was much easier.
The drive to the trailhead is beautiful and winding — just hope you don’t get stuck behind someone driving 10 under. Parking is very limited, so we got lucky when someone pulled out as we arrived.
Final thoughts: This is a great hike for families or groups who want a fun and rewarding trail without a brutal climb. Just plan ahead, wear the right gear, and enjoy one of the Smokies’ most beautiful spots."
Dark One
"Trail is nice! A little slippery in some spots. Waterfall and the river are amazing. An easy hike to the Grotto.
The only issues is limited parking. Make sure to get there by 7:30 AM if you want good parking."
Tyler Brant
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Trillium Gap Trailhead is accessed via the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, which is a one-way road. From Gatlinburg, follow signs for the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail. Be aware that this road is closed in winter and can be slow due to its narrow, winding nature.
No, the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail is typically closed from December through March. Always check the official Great Smoky Mountains National Park website for current road status and closures before your visit.
Grotto Falls is most commonly accessed via the Trillium Gap Trail. This trail is about 1.5 miles one-way from the trailhead to the falls, making it a 3-mile roundtrip hike.
Yes, you can drive to the Trillium Gap Trailhead via the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail. However, parking is extremely limited, so arriving early is highly recommended.
There is no direct public transportation to the Trillium Gap Trailhead. Visitors typically drive their own vehicles or use ride-sharing services to reach the entrance of the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no entrance fee or ticket required to hike the Trillium Gap Trail or enter the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. However, a parking tag is required for any vehicle parked for more than 15 minutes within the park.
The parking area at the Trillium Gap Trailhead does not have specific operating hours, but it is subject to the seasonal closures of the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail. Parking is extremely limited and fills up very early.
While there's no fee for the trail itself, a parking tag is required for vehicles parked for more than 15 minutes in the park. These range from $5 for a daily tag to $15 for a weekly tag.
No, parking at the Trillium Gap Trailhead is first-come, first-served. Due to its popularity and limited space, arriving very early, especially on weekends, is essential.
Grotto Falls is a natural waterfall and is accessible whenever the Trillium Gap Trail is open. The trail's accessibility is dependent on the seasonal opening of the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The hike to Grotto Falls via Trillium Gap Trail is generally considered moderate. It's about 1.5 miles one-way with some steady incline, featuring rocks and roots, but is manageable for most semi-fit individuals and families.
The hike to Grotto Falls is approximately 1.5 miles each way, taking about 45 minutes to 1.5 hours roundtrip, depending on your pace and how long you spend at the falls.
Yes, one of the most unique features of Grotto Falls is that you can walk behind the cascading water, offering a refreshing and memorable experience.
There are no restrooms directly at the Trillium Gap Trailhead. The nearest facilities are typically found at the Sugarlands Visitor Center or other designated picnic areas within the park.
Yes, the Trillium Gap Trail to Grotto Falls is considered family-friendly. While there are uneven sections, many families with young children manage the hike, often using carriers for toddlers.
📸 📸 Photography
The most iconic photo opportunity is walking behind Grotto Falls. The old-growth hemlock forest also offers beautiful, moody shots, especially with mist. Capture the river alongside the trail too.
Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer light. However, the mist from the falls can create dramatic effects at any time of day. Consider the season for potential fall colors or lush greenery.
Drone usage is restricted in most areas of national parks, including the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, to protect wildlife and visitor experience. Check the park's official regulations before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the waterfall and forest. A polarizing filter can help manage reflections on wet surfaces. A sturdy tripod can be useful for longer exposures in lower light.
The primary viewpoint is directly behind Grotto Falls. For broader forest views, simply pause along the trail where the light filters through the trees.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Young Children
Key tips for families:
Arrive very* early to secure parking.
* Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes, preferably waterproof.
* Bring a carrier for younger children who might tire easily.
* Make the walk behind the falls a highlight – it's magical for all ages!
💰 Budget Travelers
Budget tips:
* Utilize the free park entry and hike.
* Purchase a daily or weekly parking tag instead of a longer-term one if your visit is short.
* Bring all your own food and drinks.
* Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons for potentially fewer crowds and more affordable lodging options outside the park.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 The surrounding old-growth hemlock forest also presents opportunities for moody, atmospheric shots, particularly when mist is present. Photography tips:
* A wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing the scale of the falls and the forest.
* Consider a polarizing filter to manage reflections on wet surfaces and enhance colors.
* Be prepared for damp conditions behind the falls; protect your gear.
* Experiment with different times of day to capture varying light conditions and mist levels.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of Grotto Falls
While the hike to Grotto Falls is a popular 3-mile roundtrip, the Trillium Gap Trail itself continues further, offering more challenging routes and access to other areas like Mount Le Conte. For those seeking a shorter, rewarding experience, Grotto Falls is the ideal destination. Remember to wear shoes you don't mind getting wet, as the spray can be significant!
Pro-tip: If you're visiting during peak times, the walk behind the falls can get crowded. Be patient and take turns enjoying this unique natural wonder. The surrounding rocks offer a good place to sit and rest while admiring the falls.
Navigating the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail
However, it's important to note that the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail is a single-lane road with numerous curves and pull-offs. This means traffic can move slowly, especially during busy periods. Visitors are advised to be patient and courteous, and to pull over to let faster traffic pass if possible. Broken-down cars can also cause significant delays.
Despite the potential for slow travel, the drive itself is a significant part of the experience, offering stunning views and a sense of immersion in the park's natural beauty. It's a great way to access some of the park's most beloved hiking trails and waterfalls without venturing too far from Gatlinburg.
The Trillium Gap Trail Experience
As you ascend, you'll pass through a beautiful old-growth hemlock forest, which often carries a mystical, misty atmosphere. This unique environment is a significant part of the trail's charm and offers a sense of tranquility.
While the hike to Grotto Falls is considered moderate, the trail continues beyond the falls, offering a more strenuous option for experienced hikers aiming for higher elevations or other destinations. For those who enjoy a bit of adventure, keep an eye out for seasonal llama treks that sometimes occur on this trail. These unique guided hikes offer a different way to experience the Smokies and are a memorable addition to a visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit