Date: 06/19/2021 – Distance: 4.3 mi – Elapsed Time: 2.0 hr – Ascent: 735 ft – Descent: 719 ft – Difficulty: Medium
Laurel Falls is one of the most popular hikes in the Smoky Mountains. The trailhead parking can get crowded but you can also park along the road. Most of the people only hike the 1.3 miles to the falls and back, so if you can’t find a spot, just make another pass, and chances are, one will open up. I hiked a bit past the falls, but I wasn’t up for another mountain climb, so I turned back, but the trail after the falls is much less crowded.
Laurel Falls is pretty intense multi-tiered waterfall and the trail passes right between the top and bottom tiers. It’s a crowded spot, so getting pictures without people is next to impossible.
I also ran across a mother bear and her cub grazing in the bushes 30 feet uphill from the trail.
Sign marking the trailhead on Little River Road at Fighting Creek Gap.
The parking lot.
I parked nearby along the road.
Just a short walk to the trailhead.
Some info on the trail.
The trailhead.
Be aware and protect the bears. You are in their territory.
They paved the trail to help with erosion since it’s heavily travelled, but it’s not suitable for wheelchairs.
Cool rock outcropping.
This is the congestion where the bear was. Look at the people right up to the bear at the far side. They are taking pictures of the cub, and they are way too close.
That is mama.
Some dramatic rocks along the trail.
There are some good view points too.
Small grotto along the trail.
White Beebalm.
Hydrangea.
Poke Milkweed.
It’s a tough hike for some people.
Lower Laurel Falls.
Look at the crowd.
Upper Laurel Falls.
I didn’t want to hang around all the people.
Full view of Laurel Falls.
The trail continues, but practically nobody goes past the falls.
Mushroom.
Green tunnel.
This is bear poop, not fresh.
Galax, aka Wandflower.
Ramps I believe, aka Wild Leeks.
I believe this is Indian Cucumber.
Cardinal.
This trail is empty.
Carolina Allspice I believe.
One last picture of Laurel Falls on the way back.
And another view of the mountains.
The Azaleas are nearly all gone.
Redring Milkweed I believe.
The only Flame Azalea I saw while in the Smoky Mountains. It’s almost done blooming.
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