Three waterfalls in a day around Hampton, Tennessee
Laurel Falls (the Forest Service calls it Laurel Fork Falls) is one of the best-known waterfalls on the Appalachian Trail in Tennessee: a wide falls the Forest Service lists at 40 feet high and 50 feet wide, in a rocky gorge inside the Pond Mountain Wilderness near Hampton. The shortest way in is from the Dennis Cove trailhead, about 1.3 miles on the AT, or approximately 2.6 miles round trip.
We made a full day of it in late May 2023. We started the morning at a smaller waterfall pouring into a clear pool.
🥾 Down the AT to Laurel Fork
From the Dennis Cove trailhead the trail drops toward Laurel Fork, crosses it on footbridges, and runs along the bottom of the gorge under tall rock walls. The last stretch is rocky, and then the falls opens up in front of you.
🥾 One more falls to finish
We ended the day at another waterfall, a narrow chute dropping into a deep green pool between granite slabs, with danger signs warning people off the rocks.
🥾 Trail facts
- Trail: Appalachian Trail from Dennis Cove, about 1.3 miles one way (2.6 round trip). From Hampton the route is nearly 5.5 miles.
- Falls: 40 feet high, 50 feet wide (Forest Service; other sources say 50 to 60 feet)
- Difficulty: The Forest Service says it can be challenging; wear good footwear
- Rules: Hiking only, group limit 10, no restrooms or water
- Managed by: USDA Forest Service, Cherokee National Forest
Trail facts checked October 2026. Sources: USFS: Laurel Fork Falls hike, USFS: Coon Den Falls hike, USFS: Elk River Falls reopens. Swimming below these falls is dangerous; the Forest Service warns of strong undercurrents at Elk River Falls. Trails and roads change, so check with the managing agency before you go.
