Laurel Falls is a waterfall located on Laurel Branch as it travels from Cove Mountain to eventually become part of Little River. This area has the two main things needed for a waterfall - naturally water, and a gradient or change in elevation. At the posted coordinates you will see a 75 - 80 foot waterfall, Laurel Falls, split in two tiers by the trail. Laurel Branch and Laurel Falls are both named for mountain laurel, an evergreen shrub which blooms along the trail and near the falls in May.
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From the parking area you will see the trailhead to the falls. Brochures for the self-guided nature trail are available here. Total round-trip distance is about two and a half miles to the falls and back. The trail is paved to the falls and there is only a change of about 300 feet in elevation. As trails in the Great Smoky Mountains go, this is an easy one. The trail is paved to prevent erosion and damage to the area so please do not leave the paved trail. There are also some steeps drops along the trail and at the falls. In the interest of safety please be careful and do not go too near the edges. This trip should be fine for children if well supervised.