Grotto Falls

Duration

2-3 hours (including 1.5-2 hours hiking plus time at the falls)

Price

$5 parking pass required (park entry is free)

Best For

Families with kids who can handle moderate hikes • Photographers wanting unique waterfall shots • Hikers seeking accessible waterfalls in the Smokies

Pro Tip

Buy your parking pass at Sugarlands Visitor Center before driving to the trailhead - there's zero cell service on Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail and you can't turn around once you're on the one-way loop.

About Grotto Falls

Grotto Falls stands out as one of the most beloved waterfalls in the Smokies, offering visitors a unique 25-foot cascade at the end of a moderate 2.6-mile round-trip hike through stunning forest terrain.

What sets Grotto Falls apart from every other waterfall in the park? It's the only one where visitors can actually walk behind the falling water. The refreshing mist provides welcome relief after the steady uphill climb.

The trail follows the Trillium Gap Trail with consistent elevation gain - challenging enough to feel accomplished but manageable for most hikers. May brings spectacular wildflowers along the route, while the waterfall area offers noticeably cooler temperatures year-round.

A heads-up for planning: parking becomes extremely difficult during peak visiting times. The lot fills quickly, and the one-way loop road leaves little flexibility for latecomers.

Despite the parking challenges, Grotto Falls delivers on its reputation. Families often enjoy the shallow pool at the base for splashing, while the surrounding rocks provide perfect spots for rest and photos. Visitors should secure their parking pass before losing cell service on the mountain road.

Amenities & Features

Unique opportunity to walk behind the waterfallFamily-friendly trail that children ages 10+ can handle without excessive complainingScenic hike with spectacular fall foliage viewsRelatively short duration—most complete the round trip in 60-90 minutes

Don't Miss

Walk Behind the Waterfall

This is the only spot in the entire Smokies where you can walk behind a waterfall. The trail literally passes behind the 25-foot cascade, giving you incredible photo ops and a cooling mist on hot days.

Swimming Hole at the Base

The pool below the falls is deep enough for swimming and wading. Kids love splashing around while parents relax on the surrounding rocks. The water stays pretty chilly even in summer.

Wildflower Displays in Spring

May is absolutely gorgeous along this trail with trillium, violets, and stitchwort blooming throughout the forest. The wildflowers are some of the best we've seen in the park.

Moderate Challenge Level

The steady uphill climb makes you work for it without being too brutal. Most families with school-age kids handle it fine with water breaks, and the downhill return feels like a reward.

Cool Forest Canopy

The entire hike stays shaded under thick forest canopy, making it comfortable even on hot summer days. The temperature drops noticeably as you approach the falls in the cove.

Know Before You Go

Buy your parking pass at the visitor center before driving to the trailhead - no cell service on the loop road
Wear sturdy hiking shoes for rocky, rooty terrain that can be slippery when wet
Parking pass required for stays longer than 15 minutes, around $5 for daily pass
Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail closes in winter, limiting access to the trailhead
Trail is not wheelchair accessible due to elevation gain and rough terrain

Visitor Sentiment

Based on reviews

Grotto Falls receives consistently positive feedback from visitors. Located in Gatlinburg, it's a solid choice for the area.

Grotto Falls Opening Hours

Monday9 AM to 5 PM

Tuesday8 AM to 5 PM

Wednesday8 AM to 5 PM

Thursday8 AM to 5 PM

Friday8 AM to 5 PM

Saturday8 AM to 5 PM

Sunday8 AM to 5 PM

Best Times to Visit Grotto Falls

Visit during weekday mornings for the calmest experience.

🔥Buzzing

Weekend afternoons

☀️Relaxed

Weekday mornings

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the hours for Grotto Falls?

The trail is open during daylight hours year-round, but access depends on Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail being open. This seasonal one-way road closes in winter, so check park conditions before visiting.

How much does Grotto Falls cost?

The park itself is free, but you need a parking pass if you'll be parked more than 15 minutes. Daily passes cost around $5, weekly passes $15, and annual passes $40.

Do I need reservations for Grotto Falls?

No reservations needed, but parking is extremely limited and fills up quickly. The National Park Service strongly recommends having backup plans or considering shuttle services during peak times.

How long should I spend at Grotto Falls?

Plan 2-3 hours total - about 1.5-2 hours for the 2.6-mile hike plus 20-45 minutes at the falls. Many families bring lunch and stay longer to let kids play in the water.

Is Grotto Falls good for kids?

Yes, but kids need to handle a moderate 1.3-mile uphill hike each way. Most school-age children do fine with breaks. The payoff is huge - they love walking behind the waterfall and splashing around.

Is there parking at Grotto Falls?

There's a small lot at the Trillium Gap trailhead, but it's often full by mid-morning. You're on a one-way road, so if it's full, you have to complete the entire Roaring Fork loop.

Are dogs allowed on the Grotto Falls trail?

No, dogs and bicycles are not allowed on this trail. It's a National Park Service regulation for this particular trail.

Can you really walk behind the waterfall?

Yes! Grotto Falls is the only waterfall in Great Smoky Mountains National Park where the trail actually passes behind the falls. It's the main reason people love this hike.