Grotto Falls
Walk behind the falls · 2.6-mile round trip
The one waterfall in the park you can walk behind, where the trail passes through the gap between the rock and the water. It's 2.6 miles there and back on the Trillium Gap Trail — and if you time it right, you'll pass the llama train hauling supplies up to LeConte Lodge.
What makes Grotto Falls special is simple: it's the only waterfall in Great Smoky Mountains National Park with a trail that passes right behind it. Step behind the curtain of water, feel the cool mist, and look out at the forest through the falls.
The hike is a manageable 2.6 miles round trip on the Trillium Gap Trail, just a short drive from downtown Gatlinburg. That makes it one of the most popular family hikes in the Smokies.
Grotto Falls Trail at a glance
Time: plan on two to three hours
Falls height: 25 feet
Difficulty: easy to moderate, with a steady gentle climb
Trailhead: Trillium Gap Trail on the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail
Pets: not allowed on this trail
Finding the Grotto Falls trailhead
Grotto Falls is reached by the Trillium Gap Trail, which starts on the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, a one-way scenic drive that begins at the edge of downtown Gatlinburg. Look for the trailhead parking area at stop number five, which has restrooms. Across the road is the Baskins Creek Trail, another quiet waterfall hike.
Arrive early — the parking area is small and fills quickly, especially on weekends and in October. Have a backup plan, or use a shuttle if one is running.
Plan for the season — Roaring Fork is a seasonal road. It closes to cars in winter, and motorhomes, buses, and vehicles towing trailers aren't allowed. Check the national park's road schedule before you go.
Bring a parking tag — a national park parking tag is required for any vehicle parked longer than fifteen minutes. See our guide to where to buy a Smokies parking pass.
What the hike is like
The Trillium Gap Trail climbs gently and steadily through shady forest of hemlock and hardwoods, with rhododendron lining much of the path. Spring brings wildflowers along the trail. Expect a few roots and rocks and some small stream crossings, but nothing too tough for most families.
Keep an eye out for llamas. Pack trains carry fresh supplies up the Trillium Gap Trail to LeConte Lodge several days a week, and meeting them on the trail is a fun surprise for kids. If you see them coming, step to the side and let them pass.
Walking behind Grotto Falls
After about a mile and a half of hiking, you'll hear the falls before you see them. Grotto Falls drops about 25 feet over a rock ledge, and the trail curves right behind the water, so you can walk through the cool spray and see the falls from the inside out. It's a favorite spot for photos, and a perfect place to cool off on a warm day.
Best time to visit Grotto Falls
Spring — wildflowers bloom along the trail and the falls run strong after seasonal rain.
Summer — the shady forest and cool spray make this a great warm-weather hike. Start early for the best shot at parking.
Fall — Roaring Fork is one of the prettiest leaf drives near Gatlinburg. Plan a leaf-season trip with our fall cabin rentals.
Because Roaring Fork closes to cars in winter, the hike is easiest to plan from spring through late fall. Check the national park's website for any temporary closures before you head out.
More waterfall hikes near Gatlinburg
Love waterfalls? Add a few more to your trip. Rainbow Falls is a longer, more challenging hike nearby, and Laurel Falls is a paved, family-friendly favorite. In Cades Cove, Abrams Falls is one of the park's most powerful waterfalls. Browse all our Smoky Mountain hiking trails for more ideas.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the Grotto Falls hike?
About 2.6 miles round trip on the Trillium Gap Trail. Most families take two to three hours, including time at the falls.
Can you really walk behind Grotto Falls?
Yes. It's the only waterfall in the Great Smoky Mountains with a trail that passes behind it.
Is Grotto Falls good for kids?
Yes. The trail is a steady, gentle climb that most kids can handle. Just watch them closely on the wet rocks near the falls.
Where is the Grotto Falls trailhead?
At the Trillium Gap Trail parking area on the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, near Gatlinburg.
Is Grotto Falls open in winter?
The Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail closes to cars in winter, so the trailhead is easiest to reach from spring through late fall.
Can I bring my dog?
No. Pets aren't allowed on the Trillium Gap Trail.
Roaring Fork starts right at the edge of downtown, so our Gatlinburg cabins put Grotto Falls just minutes away. Our family cabins have room for everyone, and our cabins near the national park keep the trails close. After the hike, relax in one of our hot tub cabins, and if the dog is coming, our pet-friendly cabins welcome them too.