Part of Laurel Falls Trails
Overview
Great for a full day of hiking when an out-and-back or loop is required. There are plenty of places to rest when needed. As well as the spac to enjoy nature.
Passing by Laurel Falls is often a breath-taking experience for new hikers. During the warmer months many hikers stop to swim or enjoy lunch at the base of the falls. When the weather turns cooler the quiet solitude of the trail allows for a deeper connection to your surroundings.
Seeing the falls frozen over will never stop being an amazing site.
Passing the falls the trail requires some attention. Not due to difficulty. The trail thins as it passes around a rock ledge over Laurel Fork. Reaching the trail junction the Appalachian Trail continues toward Shook Branch and Watauga Lake while Hampton Blueline heads toward HWY 321 and the Laurel Fork Trailhead.
This is where this hike ends. Sit and enjoy the peace the open forest has to offer before returning.
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.
Route details
Laurel Falls to Hampton Blueline Loop
A peaceful hike through the Pond Mountain Wilderness, passing by Laurel Falls and returning to Dennis Cove trailhead via Laurel Fork Trail.
- Distance
- 5.4 miles loop
- Estimated time
- Approximately 3-6 hours
- Trail type
- Loop
- Difficulty
- 0.75 out of 5 (Low difficulty overall with sections of moderate)
- Elevation
- About 930 ft of climbing
Other routes on Laurel Falls Trails
Key Points
- 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.
- Beyond the Falls Passing by the falls the trail asks for attention. Hikers must ease around a rock ledge before returning to the trail.
- Descent to River Level After climbing away from the Laurel Fork a longer descent returns you to river level.
- Following the River The trail follows Laurel Fork to the trail junction.
- Trail Junction The Appalachian Trail and the Hampton Blueline Trail meet. Both lead to Hwy 321 but in very different ways. For this route this is where the trail stops. Rest here before the return trip.
- Climbing Away From the River The earlier descent now becomes a more demanding ascent.
- Laurel Fork Trail Instead of returning to the falls the trail goes far above them following the Laurel Fork Trail.
- The Return The Laurel Fork Trail rejoins the Appalachian Trail and follows the now familiar path back the Dennis Cove Trailhead.
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.
Before You Go
Wear footwear appropriate for uneven forest terrain and conditions that may become wet or slick. Bring water and weather-appropriate clothing for a few hours in the mountains.
Pace yourself with the return trip in mind. The trail may feel relatively easy at the beginning, but the more demanding sections near the falls will need to be climbed again on the way back.
Weather can significantly affect trail conditions. Check conditions before leaving and be prepared to adjust your plans when wet, icy, or otherwise hazardous conditions are present.
If you’re unfamiliar with Dennis Cove, make sure you know the exact parking and starting location for your route before arriving.
Walk it with Eremos
Upcoming hikes on this trail
- Full Day Hike @ Laurel Falls November 7, 2026, 8:00 am – 1:00 pm Laurel Falls to Hampton Blueline Loop · 15 spots left
- Full Day Hike @ Laurel Falls December 5, 2026, 8:00 am – 1:00 pm Laurel Falls to Hampton Blueline Loop · 15 spots left
