Hike to Fern Branch Falls
Details
Distance
4 miles
Elevation Gain
700 ft
Route Type
Out-and-Back
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.
Know for
Nearby
🌎
Local adventures
Find hikes, backpacking, photo spots, and more around Gatlinburg.
🏕
Nearby lodging
Search campgrounds, glamping, and hotels near Gatlinburg.
Reviews
Leave a Review
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
Leave No Trace
Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!
We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on.
Nearby Adventures
Hike to the Ramsey Cascades
Sunrise Hike to Myrtle Point, Mt. Leconte
Hike Grotto Falls Trail
Hike to Baskins Creek Falls
Mobile Apps
© 2021 The Outbound Collective - Terms of Use - Privacy Policy