Hike With Llamas At Grotto Falls In The Great Smoky Mountains In Tennessee
By Chris Dodge|Published February 24, 2023
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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.
If you have ever visited The Great Smoky Mountains National Park, then you know just how incredible this national park is. Nestled into the park you have a plethora of waterfalls, overlooks, scenic drives, and miles of hiking trails. It truly is a nature lovers’ paradise and we know that this biodiverse park has plenty of unique places and things to do. However, there is one trail that offers an experience unlike anything else, Grotto Falls in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, will give you a chance to hike with llamas.
If you haven’t driven this scenic road in the Smokies, then you should know that it is an absolute must. There are historic buildings for those who want to dig into the history of our park, and it is filled with natural beauty. Perhaps the prettiest view can be found at Grotto Falls.
To get to the waterfall, the trail will take you on a 2.6-mile out-and-back hike with 544 feet of elevation gain. The trail has a few inclines, but nothing gets too steep, and you are treated to some incredible views of the Smoky Mountains along the way.
Among the thick old overgrowth plant life in the Smokies, this little area is like a hidden oasis in the mountains. With the 25-foot waterfall cascading down, it creates a moist environment and is the perfect place to cool off on a hot day.
The trail leads hikers right behind the waterfall, and there is always something magical about walking behind a waterfall. You can sit and just watch the water fall onto the rocks below, walk behind it for an incredible photo op, or look for salamanders in the rich environment perfectly suited for them. However, they are not the only animals you may encounter on this trail.
We mentioned before that The Great Smoky Mountains are filled with unique experiences.
There are cabins on top of Mt. LeConte and supplies are needed throughout the week. The way they get those supplies is by the trusty llama train! These adventurous beasts take packs filled with supplies up the mountain three times a week. Llamas are specifically suited for the job; they can carry large loads and are sure-footed when it comes to mountain travel. Once they get to the top, these elated creatures are rewarded with leftovers from the camp kitchen and chow down on their hard-earned feast.
If you want to see the llamas yourself, you will have to be hiking on a Monday, Wednesday, or Friday. They typically start early and can be on the trail usually no later than 8 a.m. If you time it right, you can hike with llamas for a one-of-a-kind experience in the Great Smoky Mountains.
Grotto Falls in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, is a wonderful hike and waterfall all by itself. When you pair this hike with a llama train, you have an entirely different experience. We love the Smokies and the unique things that you can do in our national park. What is your favorite experience you have ever had in the park? Let us know in the comments below! Although there are no llamas, check out this video of the hike to Grotto Falls by Adventuring in the Moment:
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