Trail At a Glance
Location: Dennis Cove, Hampton, Tennessee
Route: Dennis Cove to Laurel Falls and back
Distance: Approximately 2.7 miles round trip
Estimated Time: Approximately 4 hours
Difficulty: 0.75 out of 5 (Low Difficulty with some difficult sections)
Terrain: Forest trail with mostly gentle terrain and several more demanding climbs
Elevation: Gradual overall elevation change with steeper sections near the falls
Trail Type: Out-and-back
Water: Seasonal wet areas and stream conditions may be present
Meeting Time: 7:50AM
Reserve Your Spot! See You On the Trail!
What to Expect
The trail starts gently. The opening portion gives you time to settle into the walk before the terrain becomes more demanding.
The descent to the falls is the harder part of the route. Some sections require more attention and effort than the early portion of the trail suggests.
Remember the return trip. Reaching the waterfall means you’ve completed only part of the hike. The climb back from the falls can be taxing.
Conditions matter. Wet weather can make the trail more difficult, particularly on steeper or uneven sections. Cold weather can introduce additional hazards.
The mileage can be misleading. At roughly 2.7 miles round trip, this is not a long hike, but it still provides enough terrain variation to require thoughtful pacing.
What to Bring
Required
- 1-2 liters of Water or Electrolyte Drink (Gatorade, LMNT, etc.)
- Suitable snack (peanuts, crackers, protein bar, etc.)
- Footwear with good traction (No flat bottomed sandals or flipflops)
- Appropriate clothing (no swimsuits or mesh clothing)
Suggested
- Small backpack or shoulder bag
- Pants (the trail tightens in places)
- Trekking Poles (if needed)
- Journal and Pen
Hike Timeline
Hiking trails can change. People hike at different paces. The timeline below is an approximation and subject to change and adaptation as needed.
Trail Overview and Introductions: 8-8:15AM
Hiking Begins: 8:15AM
Discussion Break: ~9:30-10AM
Reflection/Journal Break: ~10-10:30AM
Return Begins: ~10:30AM
Arrive at Trailhead: ~11:45AM
Debrief: ~11:45AM-12PM
