Take A Driving Trail Past Some Of The Prettiest Scenery In Tennessee On The Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail
By Chris Dodge|Published September 09, 2022
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Chris Dodge
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My name is Chris Dodge and I live right here in the great state of Tennessee. My family and I are full adventurers filled with passion to see the amazing things our state has to offer. We are avid hikers and have explored many different places in Tennessee and beyond but we are always thankful to be living in such a glorious state.
The Great Smoky Mountains are like an enchanted forest. Many people have wonderful memories of their visit to this wonderful wilderness. There are many scenic drives in the Smokies and it can almost be hard to choose between them. We know of one scenic drive that is a favorite among many people, the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail in Gatlingburg, Tennessee.
The Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail is a 5.5-mile loop that takes you through old forests, past waterfalls, and up to historic buildings.
Right before you get on the loop we suggest you take a hike to Rainbow Falls. The waterfall will take some effort to get to, the trail is 5.1 miles and has 1,617 feet of elevation gain. The trail is uphill all the way to the falls but once you arrive you will be rewarded with an 80-foot waterfall.
After the hike, hop on the single-lane loop road of the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail. Shortly into the drive, you will arrive at two overlooks. You will want to find the pull-off and marvel at the beautiful scenery all around you.
You will end the trail at Grotto Falls which is a stunning 25-foot waterfall that you can actually walk behind. There is something magical about walking behind a waterfall and you can enjoy that privilege here at Grotto Falls.
It is hard to imagine, but before the Great Smoky Mountains became our national park, people lived in these very mountains. Old log cabins, a barn, and historic structures can be explored along the road as well.
We recommend taking a step back in time and visiting the Ephraim Bales Cabin and the Alfred Reagan Place. Mr. Reagan’s homestead is the only historic home on the trail that has been painted.
Spend some time enjoying the slow, easy-going pace of this single lane trail.
Roll down your windows and listen to the sound of the streams trickling down. Make use of the pull-offs and enjoy the tranquillity of the streams. With mossy covered rocks and a peaceful flow downstream, it is a place you could sit all day and relax.
Near the end of the road, you will want to check out the seasonal waterfall called the Place Of A Thousand Drips.
During seasons of rain, you will see this rock wall bursting forth water falling into multiple streams flowing down the jagged edges. Making this waterfall a beautiful way to end the trail. Even if you do not get out and hike, this road can be enjoyed. Take it slow and marvel at the lush greens and the sections of old forest that seem more like a fairytale than reality.
The Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail is one of the most scenic drives in The Smokies. You can roll down your windows and take in the sounds of nature. Also, you can get out of your car and go on a hike or two, the way you enjoy it is up to you. Either way, we encourage you to get out on this single loop road and really see the Great Smoky Mountains yourself. If you want to check out the trail before you go then make sure to see this Adventuring in the Moment video.
