Located off Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail just outside Gatlinburg, Grotto Falls is an excellent "first hike" for children. The trail continues beyond Grotto Falls to Trillium Gap, but if you choose to turn around after seeing the waterfall, the round trip is only about 3 miles. And the part children like best - hikers can actually walk behind the 25 foot waterfall. While Grotto Falls is not the tallest waterfall in the Smokies, it is still an excellent short hike and one of the most picturesque waterfalls in the Smokies.
As you walk through old-growth hemlock forest, you'll notice a wide variety of mountain wildflowers. There are plenty of twists and turns in the trail, as it continues mainly uphill. You'll find some tree roots and rocks along the trail (far too many to push a stroller), but for the most part the trail isn't very rough. And the 1 1/2 mile distance to the waterfall offers children just enough time to enjoy nature without having to ask "are we there yet" too many times.
Once you arrive at Grotto Falls, you'll find the trail continues behind the waterfall. Although the falling water makes if difficult to carry on a conversation, it is also refreshingly cool after hiking for the past hour or so. As you navigate near the water be careful not to slip into the creek since wet rocks tend to be slippery. Grotto Falls also has an unusually large population of salamanders which can be fun for children to look for.
Since it is close to Gatlinburg and easy to hike, Grotto Falls (like most waterfalls in the Park) is very popular most of the year. The best time to view the falls is in spring or early summer when the water volume is up. But be aware the trail to the falls may be muddy in places, especially in spring. I also recommend beginning this hike early in the morning since the first visitors will have the least crowded experience at Grotto Falls. The trail back to your car may be more crowded, but if you can be one of the first hikers to Grotto Falls your overall experience will still be more peaceful than it would if you wait until after lunch to begin the hike.
Directions: To reach Grotto Falls, turn left at traffic light #8 in Gatlinburg onto Airport Rd. After you leave the city this road becomes Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail. At stop #5 on the Nature Trail you will find ample parking for Trillium Gap Trail. This is also the trailhead for Grotto Falls which is located on Trillium Gap Trail.
No matter which hikes you choose to conquer on your next trip to the Smokies, read my Hiking Tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable hike.
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