- When
- Where
- Laurel Falls
Dennis Cove Rd, Hampton, TN 37658, United States
Directions to parking · Trail map - Trail
- Laurel Falls to Hampton Blueline Loop · Loop · 5.4 mi · 930 ft of climbing
- Meet at
- We will meet at the trailhead 10 minutes prior to the scheduled hike. There is parking at the trailhead but in peak season it may fill up quickly.
- Parking
- Just before the trailhead there is paid parking on the right. There is additional parking past the trailhead, near Dennis Cove Campground on the left. This parking area does require walking on on the road.
- Price
- $55
- Ages
- 13 and up (under 18 must come with an adult in their sign-up)
- Spots
- 15 of 15 spots left
Laurel FallsParkingTrail
Other dates
Trail at a Glance
- Location
- Laurel Falls is found in the Pond Mountain Wilderness Area. Two acces points make it and easy hike. Begin on the Hampton Blueline Trail or the Appalachian Trail. Both offer amazing views and a peaceful hike.
- Terrain
- These trails are well maintained. However they are natural trails and can be uneven or have loose terrain. Caution is always required when hiking.
- Seasonal considerations
- The trails around Laurel Falls can become slick or covered in ice in colder months.
Itinerary 7 items
- 7:50 amGather at TrailheadGathering time before the hike begins. Time to get to know each other before we begin.
- 8:00 amIntroductions and Trail OverviewOfficial introductions of guide and trail. A brief trail and day overview.
- 8:15 amHiking BeginsThe hike begins. This is when we put boots on the trail.
- 10:00 amTeaching and JournalingMid-point in the hike. Teaching ~15 minutes. Journaling and reflection time ~30-45 minutes.
- 11:00 amHike ResumesThe return section begins. Time could vary depending on how much time is required for journaling and reflection.
- 12:45 pmReturn to TrailheadArrive at Trailhead. Time could vary. Trail recap, parting words, and prayer.
- 1:00 pmDismissalHikers are released.
What to bring
Full Day Hike @ Laurel Falls – December 5, 2026, 8:00 am – 1:00 pm
Tick items off as you pack. Your ticks are saved on this device.
Required
Recommended
Optional
The Trail at a Glance
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Distance | 5.38 miles |
| Route Type | Out-and-back with a partial loop (return via the Laurel Fork Trail, miles 3.65–4.3) |
| Elevation Gain | 1,093 ft |
| Elevation Loss | 1,093 ft |
| Net Elevation Change | 0 ft |
| Highest Elevation | 2,592 ft (mile 5.05) |
| Lowest Elevation | 2,005 ft (mile 2.45) |
| Average Elevation | 2,293 ft |
| Eremos Roughness | 0.75 |
| Estimated Trail Time | 4-5 hours |
| Water | Laurel Fork runs alongside much of the route; no separate springs or streams |
| Shelters | 1 (mile 3.8) |
| Camping | 8 locations |
| Biggest Climb | +587 ft over 2.35 mi (miles 2.7–5.05) |
Walking the Trail
Laurel Falls is easy to return to. The trail begins beside the river on a wide, nearly level grade, and the first stretch gives conversation room to unfold. In late fall through early spring, it can feel almost empty. In the warmer months, its accessibility brings a steady stream of hikers.
The trail narrows as it approaches its first river crossing. A sturdy bridge leads to a short climb on uneven stairs. They are not especially long, but rain, snow, and ice can make them slick. At the top, the character of the trail changes.
The route moves through two narrow corridors where high cliffs rise on either side. The outside world grows quieter, then the sound of the river returns from far below. Before descending to the falls, the trail passes through a third corridor just beyond the falls spur. Most people do not walk this far, and it offers a quieter place for teaching, reflection, or simply being still.
The trail down to Laurel Falls is steep and longer than it first appears. Uneven steps, bare rock, and loose stone ask for attention, especially when the trail is wet. At the bottom, the falls meet a rocky riverbank with places to sit and take in the water. Conversation is difficult here; the falls carry their own sound.
In the coldest part of the year, the falls can freeze into an astonishing display of winter’s force. The air often feels noticeably colder as you approach them, and ice may be present from early winter through early spring.
Continuing to follow the Appalachian Trail takes you beside the river as it flows below Laurel Falls. This section does require some balance as you walk along the edge of a ledge.
Climbing up to rejoin the Laurel Fork Trail the AT turns left and begins a steady descent. Remember this section. It will return shortly. We return to river level and follow it as it winds through the forest before coming to a trail junction.
The At continues to the right toward HWY 321 and Shook Branch. The Hampton Blueline Trail continues straight toward HWY 321. Here we stop and allow nature to envelope us in silence. There is room to spread out here. To Journal. To listen.
The return follows the same path up to where the At and Laurel Fork Trails diverge. We return on the Laurel Fork Trail. Passing far above Laurel Falls before returning to the AT to return to Dennis Cove Trailhead.
