The Great Smoky Mountains have experienced above average rainfall over the last couple of months, which is good news for waterfall watchers. All of the park waterfalls currently have substantial flows and are even more picturesque than usual.
Seasonal park road closures do not affect access to most of the park’s waterfalls, with the exception of Grotto Falls. In winter, the hike to Grotto Falls on Trillium Gap Trail starts from the Rainbow Falls/Bull Head parking area. It is a 7.0 mile round trip hike to Grotto Falls in winter, compared to 2.6 miles round trip in summer, when Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail is open. But in winter there’s a good chance you’ll have the waterfall to yourself when you get there.
News Source: Great Smoky Mountains Association
Photo Credit: Gary Wilson
