A New and Improved Laurel Falls Trail Experience Coming in 2024

Get ready for an enhanced experience at one of the most beloved trails in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park – Laurel Falls Trail! Approved by the National Parks Service, an improvement plan is scheduled to commence in 2024. Here’s all you need to know about the upcoming upgrades to the Laurel Falls Trail:

Key Updates

The proposed upgrades aim to elevate your visitor experience, address parking and safety concerns, and refurbish the 1.3-mile trail known for its magnificent 80-foot waterfall. The trail is set to close temporarily for approximately 18 months from 2024 for the renovations to take place.

The enhancement proposal is a collective effort, incorporating feedback from the community and following a comprehensive environmental review. Funding for the project is obtained through the park’s parking tag program initiated in March 2023.

Improvement Plan Highlights

The approved enhancements include:

– Trail resurfacing and widening

– Constructing a new viewing platform

– Installing informative signs at the trailhead and along the trail

– Wider footbridge construction at the upper falls

– Expanded and improved designated parking systems

– Introducing a shuttle service and timed-entry parking reservation for the trailhead

The rollout schedule for the timed-entry parking reservation system at the trailhead will be disclosed later by the National Park Service.

All About Laurel Falls Trail

Boasting an 80-foot waterfall divided into upper and lower sections by a walk bridge, Laurel Falls is a must-visit spot on the Laurel Falls Trail! Located near the Sugarlands Visitor Center, this 2.6-mile roundtrip trail is paved with an easy-to-moderate difficulty level which appeals to families visiting the park. Offering an elevation gain of about 314 feet at a comfortable pace, you can enjoy the hike without getting too tired for more adventures in the park. Remember to supervise young children as the trail has some steep drop-offs.

Cross over the footbridge to behold the captivating two-tier waterfall cascading over unique rock formations – a perfect backdrop for memorable photos! It typically requires about 2 hours to reach Laurel Falls and return. Remember to pack drinking water, especially during hot days. Please note that pets and bikes are not permitted on the trail. To dodge major crowds and have a peaceful hike, we recommend starting early in the morning or late in the evening.

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