Greenbrier Porters Creek
Hike through history and nature to the charming Fern Branch Falls in the Greenbrier section of the Smokies.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Greenbrier Porters Creek
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike through history and nature to the charming Fern Branch Falls in the Greenbrier section of the Smokies.
👟 Wear sturdy hiking shoes
The trail can be rocky and uneven. Comfortable footwear is a must for this 4-mile roundtrip hike.
💧 Bring water and snacks
Essential for any hike, especially a 4-mile trek. Stay hydrated and fueled up!
Quick Facts
Type
Intersection
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Fern Branch Falls
End of Porters Creek Trail
A beautiful waterfall at the end of the trail, perfect for photos and a rewarding stop.
Historic Stone Structures
Along Porters Creek Trail
Discover remnants of old farmsteads and stone walls, offering a glimpse into the area's past.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Weekend Crowds
Trail Conditions & What to Bring
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear sturdy hiking shoes
The trail can be rocky and uneven. Comfortable footwear is a must for this 4-mile roundtrip hike.
💧 Bring water and snacks
Essential for any hike, especially a 4-mile trek. Stay hydrated and fueled up!
Porters Creek Trail
Hi all! I was interested in taking my family to Porters Creek Trail tomorrow. While I’ve have some hiking experience, this is a first for my wife, and let’s just say it’s been an anxiety filled week for her. One of her biggest issues is that She doesn’t like driving in the…
📸 Capture history and nature
Look for old stone structures and the beautiful Fern Branch Falls. Great photo opportunities!
🚗 Arrive early on weekends
To avoid the biggest crowds and secure parking, aim for an early start.
Recommendedations on less crowded hikes or drives?
I'm going to be in the Smokies next weekend and would love to hear folks favorite hikes and drives in the park that aren't too crowded on the weekend. I'll be with some older folks, but they can handle a 3-4 mile hike with some moderate elevation change. Bonus points if there's…
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear sturdy hiking shoes
The trail can be rocky and uneven. Comfortable footwear is a must for this 4-mile roundtrip hike.
💧 Bring water and snacks
Essential for any hike, especially a 4-mile trek. Stay hydrated and fueled up!
📸 Capture history and nature
Look for old stone structures and the beautiful Fern Branch Falls. Great photo opportunities!
🚗 Arrive early on weekends
To avoid the biggest crowds and secure parking, aim for an early start.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Porters Creek Trail for its beautiful waterfall and fascinating historical remnants, offering a blend of natural beauty and a glimpse into the past. While the trail is generally well-maintained and enjoyable, some note that it can get crowded, especially on weekends, and recommend arriving early for a more peaceful experience.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Porters Creek Trail is located in the Greenbrier section of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Access is via US-321 N from Gatlinburg, then turn right onto Greenbrier Road. Follow Greenbrier Road until you reach the ranger station and parking area for Porters Creek Trail.
Yes, there is a parking area at the trailhead. However, it can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and during peak season. Arriving early is highly recommended.
Public transportation options are very limited within Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It is best to drive your own vehicle or use a ride-sharing service to reach the Greenbrier entrance.
The drive along Greenbrier Road is scenic and relatively easy. It's a paved road that leads directly to the trailhead parking.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Great Smoky Mountains National Park does not charge an entrance fee. However, a parking tag is required for any vehicle parked for more than 15 minutes within the park. These can be purchased online or at various locations within the park.
The Greenbrier entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park is typically open year-round, but hours can vary seasonally. It's always a good idea to check the official NPS website for the most up-to-date information.
While park entry is free, a parking tag is required for vehicles parked for over 15 minutes. These tags are available for daily, weekly, or annual use.
No, trails within Great Smoky Mountains National Park are first-come, first-served. There are no reservations required or available for hiking Porters Creek Trail.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The Porters Creek Trail is approximately 4 miles roundtrip to Fern Branch Falls. It's considered an easy to moderate hike.
You can see historic stone structures, remnants of old homesteads, and the beautiful Fern Branch Falls. The trail also offers lovely forest scenery.
Yes, it's a great trail for families. The 4-mile roundtrip is manageable for most, and the historical elements and waterfall add to the adventure.
Pets are not permitted on any hiking trails within Great Smoky Mountains National Park, including Porters Creek Trail. Service animals are allowed.
The trail has a moderate elevation gain, making it a good option for those who can handle some inclines but aren't looking for a strenuous climb.
📸 📸 Photography
Fern Branch Falls is a prime spot for waterfall photography. The historic stone structures and the lush forest scenery also offer great photographic opportunities.
Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer light and fewer crowds. Midday sun can be harsh, but the forest canopy provides some shade.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the waterfall and forest. A tripod can be helpful for longer exposures at the falls.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit