Grotto Falls + Brushy MTN
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
4–6 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have a moderate fitness level, comfortable with a 5-mile round trip hike that includes elevation gain and some uneven terrain.
Overview
Discover the stunning waterfall at Grotto Falls and soak in breathtaking views from Brushy Mountain with Smoky Mountain Guides. This private tour offers a perfect blend of moderate hiking and nature relaxation in the Great Smoky Mountains.
Grotto Falls + Brushy MTN
Take a walk behind a famous waterfall and hike to a beautiful mountain bald
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Pricing: $310 for 1-3 participants $55 for each additional in your party
About
This hike consists of a nice trek through old growth forests, 25 foot waterfall, heath balds, and spectacular scenery. There is a great chance for sighting the Black Bear and numerous other wildlife that are native to this region. This tour will meet at the Gatlinburg welcome center in Gatlinburg, TN. We will tour the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail before arriving at the Trillium Gap trail head. This is a popular hike and can get crowded so we try to hit the trail early to beat the crowd. Old growth forests have become very rare throughout our country, but we will walk beneath some of these lasting giants. About the point you begin working up a sweat, the trail coincides with a waterfall that our group will be able to walk behind before we continue to a breezy, heath bald along the ridges of Mount LeConte. From this point, Smoky Mountain Guides will offer a few snacks and some hydration before returning to civilization, after one more stop to cool off at the beautiful falls.
Duration
6 Hours
Additional Information
- rated moderate
- should feel comfortable hiking 5 miles
- closed toed shoes required
- proper clothing encouraged
Detailed directions will be included in your confirmation email.
Adventure Tips
Wear sturdy hiking shoes
The trail includes uneven and rocky sections, especially near the waterfall and on Brushy Mountain’s ascent.
Bring water and snacks
Keep hydrated and energized, especially since the hike up Brushy Mountain can be moderately strenuous.
Start early for best light
Early morning hikes often provide softer light and fewer crowds near Grotto Falls and the summit viewpoints.
Watch for slippery rocks
Grotto Falls is a wet area where rocks can be slick; take care crossing streams and near the waterfall base.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Black bears
- White-tailed deer
History
Brushy Mountain and Grotto Falls sit within the Great Smoky Mountains, historically inhabited by Cherokee people and early European settlers.
Conservation
Visitors are encouraged to practice Leave No Trace principles to protect fragile ecosystems and water quality in this heavily visited area.
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Adventure Hotspots in Gatlinburg, TN
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Hiking boots
Provides ankle support and traction necessary for rocky and potentially slippery sections of the trail.
Layered clothing
Allows you to adjust to changing temperatures and conditions during the hike.
all specific
Water bottle or hydration pack
Staying hydrated is important, especially on warmer days or during vigorous climbs.
all specific
Insect repellent
Helpful during warmer months to protect against mosquitoes and ticks in wooded areas.
spring specific