Laurel Falls is probably the most popular trail to walk or hike within the Great Smoky Mountains. It is 2.6 miles round trip, has a paved path and inclines at a slow, steady rate. Even if you are not in the best of shape, this hike can be made if you take your time and pace yourself. Stop along the way, take in the beautiful sights and catch your breath! (You can always use the excuse that you just can''t pass up the perfect photo opportunity)! This trail also tolerates strollers well since it is paved.
As you walk along the trail, you will pass through a pine-oak forest with thickets of mountain laurel and rhododendron ready to burst into bloom. Both bloom around the first to mid May. Once you reach the waterfall, you will cross a bridge that provides a perfect view of the upper falls. You will also enjoy the cool, refreshing mist that falls upon your skin. The trail continues up the mountain once you have crossed over the bridge, however we stopped at the falls. There is another waterfall below the bridge which you can get a closer view of by climbing down on to the huge rocks. Since the area in front of the waterfall is small, don''t be surprised if you can''t get an unobstructed photo of the falls.
Plan on taking this hike either in early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and crowds. The parking lot fills up fast and the area on both sides of the road also has vehicles parked for a half mile or so. If just driving by, you will want to use extreme caution in this area. We took this small hike mid afternoon in April and I could only imagine how hot I would have been if it were July or August. Be sure to take a bottle of water to quench the thirst and cool you down.
Laurel Falls is located about 3.5 miles west of the Sugarlands Visitor Center on Little River Road (towards Cades Cove).