Grotto Falls Trail is relatively easy and makes a great warm-up hike. One of the highlights is that you can actually walk behind the waterfall, and in summer the mist feels incredibly cool and refreshing. With photo stops and short breaks, the whole hike took us about 1.5 hours. When we returned to the parking area, we unexpectedly encountered a baby bear. It was only about 3 meters away from us. Everyone froze and held their breath. Luckily, the cub quickly noticed us and ran back into the forest. Alum Cave Trail took us around 3 hours including photos, although it can normally be completed in just over 2 hours round trip. We started the hike at 4 pm, which felt a bit late. When we finally reached the cave, people ahead of us had already spotted signs of a bear. It’s strongly recommended to carry bear spray when hiking these trails, and avoid going too late in the day.
Grotto Falls
Waterfall height
Plan your visit to Grotto Falls
Please verify on the official website before you go
Why is Grotto Falls famous?
Grotto Falls is the only waterfall in Great Smoky Mountains National Park where you can walk behind the falling water. The trail also serves as a historic route for llama pack trains delivering supplies to LeConte Lodge, which hikers often encounter.
Can you swim at Grotto Falls?
No. Swimming is not permitted at Grotto Falls or in Great Smoky Mountains National Park streams. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Are dogs allowed at Grotto Falls?
Dogs are not allowed on trails in Great Smoky Mountains National Park except the Gatlinburg Trail and Oconaluftee River Trail. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is Grotto Falls free? Do you need a permit?
Free. No entrance fee or permit is required for Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Parking at the trailhead is also free. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is there parking at Grotto Falls?
Parking is at the Grotto Falls Trailhead on Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, about 3 miles from the start of the motor trail. Spaces are limited and fill quickly during peak seasons. Please verify on the official website before you go.
How long is the hike to Grotto Falls?
About 2.6 miles (4.2 km) round-trip from the Grotto Falls Trailhead parking area on Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Grotto Falls hike difficulty
Moderate. The trail gains about 500 feet in elevation with rocky sections and stream crossings, though it is well-maintained. Please verify on the official website before you go.
When is the best time to visit Grotto Falls?
Spring (April–May) for peak water flow from snowmelt and rain, plus wildflowers. Fall (October–November) offers vibrant foliage and comfortable hiking temperatures. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Route and trail notes for Grotto Falls
From the Grotto Falls Trailhead on Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, follow the Trillium Gap Trail. The path climbs gradually through forest with several small stream crossings on footbridges. After about 1.3 miles, you'll reach Grotto Falls, which is unique because the trail passes behind the waterfall curtain. Return via the same route.
Grotto Falls official website
Attractions near Grotto Falls
- •Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail — scenic one-way loop road with historic buildings and waterfalls
- •Rainbow Falls — 80-foot waterfall accessible via strenuous 5.4-mile round-trip trail
- •Cataract Falls — smaller cascade along the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail
- •Gatlinburg — mountain town with attractions, shops, and park visitor center
- •Clingmans Dome — highest point in Great Smoky Mountains with observation tower
Safety information
Waterfalls can be unforgiving. Read these before you go — and please, use your judgement on the day.
Full safety guide →Questions & answers
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