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Laurel Falls Trailhead
4.7 ★★★★★ 2,243 Google reviews · Running trail in Sevierville, Tennessee · Hours vary
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Paved
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Not reported
Confirmed from Laurel Falls Trailhead's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
National park area featuring a moderately strenuous paved trail leading to a popular waterfall.
What runners say about Laurel Falls Trailhead
“The trail itself is well-maintained and relatively easy, making it suitable for hikers of all ages and skill levels.”
“Laural Falls Trailhead offers a picturesque starting point for exploring the beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.”
“The trailhead was well-marked and easy to find, and the parking area was spacious and well-maintained.”
“NEVER approach or feed them and remain calm in any situation they become aggressive and do not travel alone like I did always travel in a group.”
“The trail itself is well-maintained and relatively easy, making it suitable for hikers of all ages and skill levels.”
A pretty difficult trail that is paved but has been heavily damaged. The surface is rough and uneven in numerous places. The incline can be steep at times with some weather related obstacles. Downed trees are not uncommon on this trail. The views are seriously beutiful at times and nature is all around and abundant.
I don't think the waterfalls are necessarily the best, but the trail is a nice hike for those of us that enjoy the journey of the hike more than the destination. The trail was well populated with people, and given that I don't want to run into bears, I was truly grateful for so many people to keep the bears away.
This was a fun medium hike. It is semi-paved but broken almost everywhere. There are greats views. And several mini waterfalls leading up to Laurel Falls. There is a cement bridge that goes directly across the falls to a different vantage point. But the river may be running over the bridge depending on water level.
This trail is a great trail and one of my favorites and I’ve been to the mountains since I was 6. Please be aware of BEARS!! This trail is by far the most bear active trail I’ve seen in the smokies.. my last visit here a few days ago I’d seen five bears including a mama bear, two juveniles, and two cubs.
Trail conditions & character
“I connected with a group two minutes later and no amount of shouting scared it off even when a guy in the group repeatedly slammed a rock against the waterfall sign.”
“Laural Falls Trailhead offers a picturesque starting point for exploring the beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.”
“A pretty difficult trail that is paved but has been heavily damaged.”
“I personally would never recommend hiking with such steep drop offs in regular sneakers instead of hiking boots, but there were some people doing it.”
“As I hiked, I noticed that the trail was surprisingly flat and easy to navigate, considering it was a mountain trail.”
“Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a beginner, the trail provides a delightful blend of scenic views and accessible hiking that will leave you with unforgettable memories.”
“The journey to Laural Falls takes you through a serene forest filled with diverse flora and fauna, enhancing the overall hiking experience.”
Plan your run at Laurel Falls Trailhead
The practical stuff
- AccessHours vary — hours are not posted for this trail, so check before an early or late run
- SurfacePaved — asphalt or concrete. Fast and predictable, runnable year-round, and fine with a stroller
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking — reported by runners
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
- Websitenps.gov
- Phone+1 865-436-1200
Running trails near Sevierville
Other trails within easy driving distance — useful when this one is flooded, gated, or just not the run you had in mind today.
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Gatlinburg Trail Trailhead
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Little Greenbrier and Roundtop Trailhead
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Hiking area featuring kid-friendly trails and attractions including Laural Falls.
Twin Creeks Trail Trailhead
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Easy, well-traveled 4.5-mile round-trip trail through the woods, with a preserved 1880s cabin.