One of the most popular trails in the Smokies will be closed for 18 months
The National Park Service (NPS) will begin a major rehabilitation on Laurel Falls Trail, which is one of the most popular trails in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The trail will close for 18 months starting Jan. 6, 2025 as crews make improvements to the trail and parking areas.
What’s changing about Laurel Falls?
Through this rehabilitation, the NPS will enhance safety and the hiking experience for the more than 300,000 visitors who hike Laurel Falls every year. The park plans to:
- Construct new viewing platforms at the falls
- Improve visitor flow
- Reduce hazards associated with slippery, steep areas
- Repave and widen the asphalt trail
The project will also provide critical upgrades to the trailhead parking area. These include the addition of roughly 50 parking spaces and the construction of a designated pathway with a guardrail to safely connect pedestrians to the trailhead. Improvements to the parking area are funded by recreation fee revenue from campgrounds and parking tag fees.
“Laurel Falls Trail is a beloved feature of Great Smoky Mountains National Park,” said Acting Superintendent Boone Vandzura. “The rehabilitation will provide for greater safety and an enhanced visitor experience; we look forward to enjoying the trail together once work is complete.”
Why the update?
The existing asphalt surface of the trail, first paved in 1963, is rough, uneven and includes sections with cracked and missing pavement, which requires frequent repairs. Also, the park will install new signs and educational panels to provide guidance on wayfinding, bear safety and Leave No Trace principles.
During the closure of Laurel Falls Trail, access to Laurel Falls will be closed from both Little River Road and the junction of Little Greenbrier Trail and Cove Mountain Trail. Additionally, Sugarland Mountain Trail and its parking lot will be closed with no drop-offs or use permitted.
When will Laurel Falls reopen?
With the closure lasting 18 months, the trail is expected to reopen in the summer of 2026. During this construction, the NPS encourages visitors to explore the park’s extensive network of over 800 miles of trails or other waterfalls. Recommended alternative hikes include:
- Baskins Creek Trail
- Cove Hardwood Nature Trail
- Cove Mountain Trail to Cataract Falls
- Elkmont, Cosby or Smokemont Nature Trails
- Gabes Mountain Trail to Hen Wallow Falls
- Metcalf Bottoms Trail/Little Brier Gap Trail to Little Greenbrier School and the Walker Sisters’ Cabin
- Little River Trail
- Middle Prong Trail
- Sugarland Valley Nature Trail
Current trail and road information can be found on the park’s website. Are you planning a trip to the Smoky Mountains soon? Make sure to check out our coupons page before your trip!
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