Uploaded July 2019 | Updated September 2026, 2 days ago
At more than 185,000 acres, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park houses more land of old growth forests than any other place east of the Mississippi River. It is designated an International Biosphere Reserve, UNESCO World Heritage Site and contains nine individual listings on the US National Register of Historic Places. Its highest peak is Clingman’s Dome at 6,643 feet, which the native inhabitant Cherokee called ‘Kuwahi’ which means ‘mulberry place’. Hike up there, and you’ll see why. Grotto Falls is one of four major waterfalls within the National Park. You can access it via the Trillium Gap Trail, off of Mount Le Conte, the sixth tallest mountain east of the Mississippi River. It’s relatively close to the road and there are ropes which help hikers catch a glimpse of the fall. But, be warned: It’s one of the busiest trails; so be prepared to arrive at daybreak to enjoy the site in peace.
At more than 185,000 acres, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park houses more land of old growth forests than any other place east of the Mississippi River. It is designated an International Biosphere Reserve, UNESCO World Heritage Site and contains nine individual listings on the US National Register of Historic Places. Its highest peak is Clingman’s Dome at 6,643 feet, which the native inhabitant Cherokee called ‘Kuwahi’ which means ‘mulberry place’. Hike up there, and you’ll see why. Grotto Falls is one of four major waterfalls within the National Park. You can access it via the Trillium Gap Trail, off of Mount Le Conte, the sixth tallest mountain east of the Mississippi River. It’s relatively close to the road and there are ropes which help hikers catch a glimpse of the fall. But, be warned: It’s one of the busiest trails; so be prepared to arrive at daybreak to enjoy the site in peace.
