Took us (as beginners) about an hour and a half. After parking, the trailhead itself will be to the left of the parking area. Follow the trail about 60 feet to a building and stay to the left side of that building - the trailhead to Spruce Flats Falls is right there.Head up the trail and you'll hit switchbacks early on, but they don't last for very long. The trail begins at the parking lot for theTremont Instituteand totals 1.8 miles out and back. #7 Apply some bug repellent before you venture onto the trail. I've parked at Tremont so many times over the years to go on overnight backpacking trips, and had never heard about Spruce Flats Falls. However, there are a lot of families with young kids. Dont let the short distance fool you. Beautiful hike to the falls. You'll hike through old forest growth, and you'll get to see mountain views near the beginning of the hike. 1. Depending on the season, you might experience a bit of mud at the end of the trail. The largest cabin rental agency in the Smoky Mountains, All content Copyright 2023 Cabins of the Smoky Mountains, Spruce Flats Falls: Beauty Worth Hiking For, Insiders Visual Guide to the National Park, How to Find an Affordable Gatlinburg Cabin, How to Find a Gatlinburg Cabin With Spectacular Views. 6 Waterfalls near Gatlinburg Laurel Falls Laurel Falls via Adobe Stock The closest waterfall trail to Gatlinburg, Laurel Falls is one of the most popular hikes in the park. If you have information or photos you would like to contribute, please contact [emailprotected]. The highest point on Spruce Flats Falls is almost 40 feet in the air. I like to wear hiking sandals that also allow me to step in water without having to deal with squishy wet shoes or packing an extra pair of shoes. 2021 . Although you may find varying information, the hike is approximately 2 miles roundtrip according to most sources. So they had to stay home on this day. To get to the falls, the roundtrip length is 3 miles. Decent amount of rock scrambling on trail, have good ankles. steep areas with a narrow path and some fun obstacles to overcome (nothing big, trees, tree roots, Boulders, etc). If youre in the mood for discovery, one of the hidden gems of the park requires a short but tricky hike with some beautiful views, on a less well known trail that leads to a stunningly beautiful waterfall. Hillbilly V Townsend, Tennessee 54 12 Take the trail or cross the stream Review of Spruce Flats Falls Reviewed January 16, 2021 One of the nicer little waterfalls on the Tennessee side of the mountains. with high-quality content along with building new features, moderating, and site maintainance Its rated moderate, which is already harder than easy, so if you have young children or difficulties getting around, this one may not be for you. Generally considered a moderately challenging route. Indian Flats Falls is a captivating destination, with a fairly easy hike alongside a creek, cascades and bridges along the way, and a beautiful, four-tier cascading waterfall that drops modestly a total of 60 feet across all the tiers. However, there were stairs and handrails where they were needed which made the hike very doable. Throughout the year youll always have an opportunity to brave the chilly water as you dip your feet in to get closer to the falls. The area around the falls has plenty of room to kick back with a picnic lunch and enjoy the sounds of nature. In America's busiest national park, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, this hike is not on most trail maps and is a lesser known quieter trail. It wasnt long at all. Water at the Falls is icy cold. Trail was very muddy and slippery today due to the rain. Before You Go To Aruba Lessons Learned From Our Vacation In Aruba, Using Metal Detectors To Screen Riders On Roller Coasters: Why Its Good & How It Will Keep You Safer At Theme Parks. Trip Report From there walk up the paved road into the Tremont complex until the pavement ends at 0.2 miles. Even though this is a lesser known trail, I would still try to show up early to avoid any crowds. Went yesterday right after the rain. There's alot of rocks and narrow areas to maneuver around. The trailhead is located at the far end of the day-use picnic area near Cades Cove campground. Spruce Flats Falls is located in Tremont, Tennessee, a facet of the highly popular Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The trail to reach the falls begins at the Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont. The waterfall has four separate tiers and stands at 30 feet tall. The falls are beautiful! Here are the top 10 Smoky Mountain waterfall trails ranked by difficulty: 1. Hiking to Spruce Flats Falls - Great Smoky Mountains - Feb 2018, Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont, my tips for finding toddler-friendly and dog-friendly hiking trails, Rent A Wrangler: Where To Find Jeep Wrangler Rentals In The U.S. & Beyond. #3 I would suggest packing a lunch, snacks, and water to enjoy at the falls and swimming hole especially if youre traveling with smaller children. After a short distance, the trail comes around a bend, and you . As the trail winds its way up the hill, youll come to a portion that is covered in rocks of different sizes and shapes. This is where the actual trail begins. Trip Reports In my younger years, I would attempt any adventure on my own without hesitation. steep areas with a narrow path and some fun obstacles to overcome (nothing big, trees, tree roots, Boulders, etc). Show Less. There are also uneven, exposed tree roots. It's a short hike, though rated moderately difficult due to varied terrain and elevation changes. There are also several areas to rest and take in these views without blocking the trail. My husband and our three boys 5,8, and 11 loved it, our 5 year old did it with ease. The road a We know there's a boatload of Pigeon Forge attractions you've heard about and enjoyed on your last trip, but w Pigeon Forge is home to a symphony of unique, Southern-style cuisines. Previous several reviews are all accurate. It is breathtaking! MyHikes is an indie web platform aimed to make exploring public trails easier for everyone. Great hike to a beautiful waterfall that kids can swim in. The waterfall is stunning! Needed bug spray! The trail was short and worth the difficulty. , and publishing new trails While following Meigs Creek the trail has mild elevation gain and loss through groves of Rhododendron and d Start your hike at Anthony Creek Trailhead (elevation1,800 ft), in the Cades Cove area. This was a fun short hike and the waterfall was splendid and calm. And talked to another group that did the same. Day One | My Quantum Discovery, Best Wildflower Hikes in The Great Smoky Mountains | Gatlinburg Space Needle Times, A powerful conservation tool | Tropical Biology Association, George Masa, Legend of the Great Smoky Mountains, The Cataloochee Settlement | Great Smoky Mountains. Very few long range views, but a wonderful hike that can be done in 2 (ish) hours with plenty of time for a nice swim. 2023 The Outbound Collective - Terms of Use - Privacy Policy. The trailhead parking area is large but if no spaces are available additional parking can be had at the Jake's Creek trailhead at the top of the hill and to the right of the Little River trail parking lot. Keep an eye on the weather. The trailhead for this hike begins in the Cades Cove picnic area parking lot towards the back side. https://gsmit.org/ Spruce Flats Falls is a beautiful waterfall located in the Tremont section of the Great Smoky Mountains. Hang a left out of the Tremont parking lot and continue down to theMiddle Prong Trail. This includes the restroom facilities. We got started around 8:30am on a Sunday and didn't feel crowdedwe passed a few other groups. steep areas with a narrow path and some fun obstacles to overcome (nothing big, trees, tree roots, Boulders, etc). Not a super kid friendly hike. After parking, follow the gravel trail towards the dormitories, and find trail signs off to the left. We have been wanting to hike lately and with temperatures reaching the mid 40s it was the perfect opportunity. TIP: carry a pair of dry socks and a towel with you on this trip. Difficulty Rating (Strenuous) Middle Prong Trail Description At around 0.8 mile the trails bears to the right and begins its steep descent towards Spruce Flats Falls. Most of them require a hike although there are two that can be seen by car. 136 reviews #20 of 104 things to do in Great Smoky Mountains National Park Waterfalls Visit website Write a review What people are saying By Wyoming " Nice Moderate Hike " Jul 2021 . The trailhead is found at the Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont. Very hard trail but the end is worth it! Bring bug spray! A 0.2 mile another junction occurs with a path going straight that connects with the Lumber Ridge Trail. A treking pole was helpful. It got a little busier as we were leaving. Now, grounded as a first-time mom, I share my love for outdoor adventure with my son and extended family in the Smoky Mountains and beyond. The above list of hiking trails in the Smokies is incomplete and constantly being updated. Many people from the Institute at Tremont have made this hike, and one of them was good enough to film it for the rest of us. small butterflies were flying everywhere giving it a utopia feel! Read More, The Spruce Flats Falls Trail at the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is an amazing 1.7 mile out-and-back hike in the Tremont section of the park near Townsend TN.The trail can start in a few different places, but the parking lot is located off of Tremond Rd at the Tremont Institute. Beautiful trail. Spruce Flat Falls is actually not on any official park map but it still gets a fair share of all the Great Smoky Mountain visitors. Its almost a 1.5-mile round trip, with ascending and descending parts. My husband and I have driven through the Great Smoky Mountain National Park several times. I'm\rgrateful that you choose to support me with your viewership and\rtime. As you come out of the trees, youll be able to see the impressive Spruce Flats Falls. Worth it to get to the falls. Quickest hike Ive done to get to a waterfall! The Cades Cove loop is an 11 mile road providing access to Cades Cove in the Great Smoky Mountains. Along the way, there are spectacular views of the Middle Prong branch of the Little River and of Walker Valley, as well as some nice rock formations. Take your time and enjoy the scrambling because when you get to the end you will be rewarded with a . Pets are not allowed on the trail. The open, flat area which the institute occupies is known as Walker Fields and was named for Will Walker who first settled there in 1859. This was during a time when my son would still ride in his baby hiking carrier. This is Spruce Flats Falls trail. Its a must!! consider 139 reviews #19 of 104 things to do in Great Smoky Mountains National Park Waterfalls Visit website Call Write a review What people are saying " Beautiful FALLS.. loved it. Had no idea. . The waterfall and trail are not labeled on most maps (nor on signs at the trailhead), making Spruce Flats one of the best kept secrets in the Park. If youve got a toddler, heres my review of the Osprey Poco Child Carrier vs. the Kelty Pathfinder Hiking Baby Carrier. Take tons of pictures, collect tons of memories but leave nothing behind! When the trail goes down, it becomes more rugged and rocky. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime. This is a very popular area for hiking, so you'll likely encounter other people while exploring. This led us to our hike to Spruce Flats Falls. From here you will start up a good incline with a few switchbacks that will take you to a rocky overlook that will provide you with views of what I believe are the Middle Prong Little River and Thunderhead Mountain. MANY roots and rocks along the trail, but the falls are worth the effort. Browse all Pigeon Forge & Gatlinburg condos. Difficulty Rating (Easy) Spruce Flats Falls Description From the parking area hikers should walk up the gravel road and turn left just before reaching the GSMIT dormitory building. From the trailhead hikers will cross a metal footbridge over Lynn Camp Prong. The trail was pretty steep. Around .65 miles, the trail reaches its high point and begins to descend toward the falls. Trail Features Waterfalls, History Trail Location Tremont Roundtrip Length 8.3 Miles Elevation Gain (total) 1140 Feet Elevation Gain (per mile) 275 Feet Trail Difficulty 47.25 Strenuous This strenuous hike is 8.3 miles roundtrip and includes 1,140 feet of elevation gain. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your Spruce Flats Falls is located in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park, which is only 6 miles from Townsend, Tennessee (where we like to go tubing). Explore the most visited national park in the country. The trail up to Spruce Flat Falls covers approximately 1.9 miles. To reach Spruce Flats Falls you'll need to travel 2.2 miles back the Tremont road to the Great Smoky Mountains Institute and then park in the parking area in front of the visitor center. LeConte). Hike to Indian Flat Falls via Middle Prong Trail, Little River Trail to Backcountry Campsite #30, Hike the Cucumber Gap and Little River Loop. For this reason I would highly recommend good hiking boots and trekking poles. Spruce Flats Falls - 1.45 Miles Round-Trip Spruce Flats Falls is located .72 miles from the Lumber Ridge Trailhead in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. How To Drive Down Steep Hills Without Using Your Brakes! Otherwise, telling your friends about MyHikes is the next-best thing to a donation - both quick and free , Thanks for visiting MyHikes and have a great hike! Leave the plants and wildlife alone. Wear proper hiking attire and bring plenty of water. Hiking to Spruce Flats Falls is a great opportunity for individuals and families alike to create some special memories. https://www.nps.gov/grsm/planyourvisit/fees.htm. " Jun 2023 You have to purchase a $5 parking ticket for a day in the information center located at the parking lot. And if youre not fond of crowds, since this trail is less well known, you might see very few people on your hike to the falls. Drive another couple of miles, and then make a left towards the Institute. The trail cuts to the right and comes to a set of log steps that descends through an area of the trail that is badly eroded. It is definately worth it when you get to the falls. Waterfall, Create Recommended Route or You will immediately begin a slight incline as you close in on another trail split at 0.2 miles. There are a few parking spots right at the trailhead, so arrive early in the day to ensure a spot. Watch your step, especially in the winter and spring months, when the trail is more likely to suffer from erosion. To return simply go back the way you came in and remember it will get easier after that initial hard ascent on the return. And as with everything in the park, starting early in the morning is always good advice to avoid crowds. The trail will start to descend towards the falls. Less crowded than other waterfall destinations in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Have an amazing hike thats not too busy. #4 Wear appropriate hiking shoes because the trail varies in terrain and difficulty. Shortly after that, make the first left and follow the signs towards the. Lots of roots. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); document.getElementById( "ak_js_2" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Georgia Man Drowns at Abrams Falls in the Great Smoky, GSMNP to Require Reservations and Parking Permits at Laurel, Knoxville Woman Instrumental in Founding of Great Smoky. A secret hiking trail in the Smoky Mountains that's frequented fairly often and is easy to follow is the trail leading to Spruce Flats Falls. , mapping This was my first trip to the Smokies in 5 years, after moving back to Tennessee from California. You can begin your trek to the falls at the Great Smoky Mountains Institute, located in the heart of Tremont. It is considered easy to moderate. The trail begins at the parking lot for the Tremont Institute and totals 1.8 miles out and back. It probably took us 30 minutes to hike to the falls carrying my son in his hiking carrier. You'll pass two large boulder fields along the trail before the descent to Spruce Flats Falls.On the descent to the falls is a wooden notch ladder with wooden hand-rails, use this for balance.You'll reach Spruce Flats Falls after 1 mile and you cannot miss it.Backpacking is technically allowed on this trail; however, there aren't any places that you can actually camp due to the elevation grade. Once you have fully descended, you will reach the picturesque falls. Real Experiences. Like this post? See winners from every year of the contest. Here are my tips for finding toddler-friendly and dog-friendly hiking trails. Check out this 2.9-km out-and-back trail near Townsend, Tennessee. will be added to the main trail notes. on this trail. Follow the arrow to your left and walk past a long building until you quickly reach another trail split. 460 Feet Elevation Gain (per mile) 657 Feet Trail Difficulty 2.32 Easy This easy hike is 1.4 miles roundtrip and includes 460 feet of elevation gain. In .2 miles, turn left on the road towards the Great Smoky Mountain Institute. The trail is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime. This 7.9 mile segment of the Appalachian Trail will take you to the highest point in the Smokies, but the incline of the Baskins Creek Trail is a relatively short hike in the middle of the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail loop. when planning your next adventure that you Great hike! (The parking area also has a restroom and a gift shop / information center. This is definitely a trail where a walking stick is a useful aid especially with all of the exposed tree roots that are easy to trip over. Appalachian Trail Smoky Mountains Segment, Big Creek Trail (Mouse Creek Falls, Midnight Hole), Cataract Falls (Fighting Creek, Cove Mountain Trail), Little Brier Gap Trail (Walker Sisters Cabin), Trillium Gap Trail (Grotto Falls, Mt. Youll get your feet wet, either because you wanted to dip them, or because you had no choice! I definitely recommend it. Intimately winds through forest and stream. There are a few parking spots right at the trailhead, but note that the picnic area closes at dusk (a gate closes the road), so be prepared to park .5 miles away at the main campground parking lot if you arrive Rocky Top is known to be the spot that inspired the famous fight song of the University of Tennessee, which is also an official song for the state of Tennessee. Spruce Flats Falls is one of the best waterfall hikes at Great Smoky Mountains National Park and is also very underrated as National Parks waterfalls go, this is near the Cades Cove area of. I will be traveling more this year so\rexpect to see some new hiking/backpacking locations other than the Smokies.\r\r*******************************\rCamera: GoPro Hero and iCamera X\rGimble: DJI Osmo II\rVideo editing: Filmora Spruce Flats Falls via Lumber Ridge Loop Hard 4.3 (261) Great Smoky Mountains National Park Photos (2,435) Directions Print/PDF map Length 7.0 miElevation gain 1,509 ftRoute type Loop Head out on this 7.0-mile loop trail near Townsend, Tennessee. Known as a excellent bear hunter, Walker remained in the vicinity until the early 20th century and refused to sell any of his land to the Little River Lumber company until late in his life. The short but moderate hike is well worth the effort for the beautiful site that awaits you. Or you can simply Next comes another scenic view, the Middle Prong of the Little River, a favorite trout fishing spot. You can find the Spruce Flats Falls trail from the Lumber Ridge trailhead at Tremont, located along the gravel road just beyond the parking area. While there is no entrance fee, a paid parking tag is required for those who park for longer than 15 minutes. I simply ask that Very enjoyable once we reached the top to see the falls, but we did not realize how difficult this would be with three young children. The trail is well maintained but there are a lot of rocks and roots along the way. 4.5K views 5 years ago Spruce Flats Falls is a multi-level cascade which drops a total of 125 feet. FIND YOUR WAY OUTSIDE is a trademark of AllTrails, LLC. Also saw a bear on my way back to the parking lot. The trails continues to ascend and soon you will have a good view of Thunderhead Mountain on your right. As always make sure to leave the trail in better condition than you found it.