Hike to Fern Branch Falls
4 miles
700 ft gain
- Out-and-Back Trail
Added by Elyse Clark
Hike to a lesser visited, 40-ft waterfall while taking in the sites along Porters Creek.
Take Porters Creek Trail, a gravel road alongside Porters Creek. You will pass by an old farmstead and cemetery, as well as lots of wildflowers if you're out during the spring.
In a mile, keep left, then in another half mile or so you should cross over a small (and somewhat harrowing) footbridge. The 40-ft tall Fern Branch Falls is less crowded than other falls in the park, and has open access year-round.
Tags
Go Pro.
We're committed to building a better, more inclusive home for the modern outdoors. Go PRO to support our mission and get benefits like gear deals, no ads, and more!
Join the community Learn MoreReviews
Overall rating:
So worth it
This trail begins as a gravel road, but as you continue like the directions say, it turns into a moderate dirt path with some obstacles. the falls themselves were incredible. there is a very difficult climb to the base of the falls if you’re up for the challenge, but the path will lead you to the view of the waterfall. we hiked this trail in pouring rain, and it took us around 2 hours to complete all together. we were in no rush and spend some time climbing to the falls. this was so worth it. we ran into two people on the trail and it was such a serene hike.
5.0
Nearby Adventures
Hike to the Ramsey Cascades
8 miles
2190 ft gain
Sunrise Hike to Myrtle Point, Mt. Leconte
2 miles
400 ft gain
Camp out at Mt. LeConte Lodge
Hike Grotto Falls Trail
2.6 miles
585 ft gain
