Greenbrier Waterfalls hike in Gatlinburg: Old-growth forest, a moderate trek

Ancient trees, rhododendron tunnels, moss-covered boulders, and a destination waterfall deep in the park

This is an 8-hour guided hike in Great Smoky Mountains National Park starting at Greenbrier Entrance, covering 7.8 miles with 2,200 feet of elevation gain through old-growth forest to a mountain waterfall. Your naturalist guide interprets the ecosystem, forest layers and stream life along the way. The hike includes a professional guide, trail snacks and a deli sandwich lunch. You bring your own water. Minimum age is 12, and the tour operates rain or shine with a minimum of two people per departure.

Step-by-step itinerary

Strenuous hike through ancient forest

• Meet at Greenbrier Entrance
• Follow naturalist guide on hike
• Explore old-growth forest ecosystem
• Pass rhododendron tunnels and mossy boulders
• Cross mountain streams and cascades
• Reach destination waterfall

The experience

Greenbrier Entrance sits at the north edge of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and this hike pushes into terrain most day-trippers never reach. The route climbs 2,200 feet over 7.8 miles through old-growth forest where the trees have stood for centuries, passing under rhododendron tunnels and across moss-covered boulders. Your guide reads the landscape as you go: pointing out the forest layers, the life in the streams, and the natural forces that shape this part of the Smokies. The destination is a waterfall deep enough in the park that you earn the view.

This is strenuous hiking, not a walk. The elevation gain and the distance mean you need solid fitness and strong legs. The operator recommends this for active travelers and strong hikers who want a real challenge. You'll start early, spend most of the day on the trail, and finish tired. Snacks and a deli sandwich lunch are included, but you must bring plenty of water: the park doesn't provide it. The guide will help you choose your sandwich when you book. Weather doesn't stop the hike. It runs rain or shine.

The tour requires a minimum of two people to operate, so solo travelers should check availability or consider joining a group departure. Parking at Greenbrier is included in your booking, and your naturalist guide handles the route. The itinerary can shift if road closures or park events force a change, but the core experience (old-growth forest, stream crossings, and a waterfall) stays the same.

What’s included

• Professional naturalist guide.
• trail snacks (peanut butter crackers and trail mix).
• deli sandwich lunch (you choose the type when booking).
• all park fees and taxes.

Before you book

Days and timesWednesday and FridayDepartures at 08:00 and 09:00

Book up to18h before

AgesAdult (12 to 98 years) · Under 12: can't be booked

GroupUp to 11

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends at a different place from where it starts.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated today

Good to know

Physically demandingNot recommended during pregnancyNot recommended with heart problemsNot recommended with back problems

Operated by A Walk in the Woods

Is this one for you?This hike suits strong hikers and active travelers who want a full day in the mountains and can handle strenuous elevation gain. Groups stay small, so you'll move at a steady pace with a guide who knows the old-growth forest well.

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Top questions

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

What's the waterfall like at the end of this hike?

The destination waterfall sits deep in old-growth forest after 7.8 miles of climbing, so it's a reward for the effort rather than a quick roadside stop. The guide interprets the stream life and natural forces around it as part of the larger ecosystem you've been hiking through.

How steep is the elevation gain on this trail?

The hike covers 2,200 feet of elevation change over 7.8 miles, which is strenuous. The operator recommends this for strong hikers and active travelers with a high level of physical fitness. It's not a beginner hike.

What should I bring besides what's included?

You must bring plenty of water: the park doesn't provide it and the guide won't carry extra. Wear sturdy hiking boots, bring layers for mountain weather, and pack any personal items you need. The guide and snacks are included. You choose your sandwich at booking.

Can I do this hike if I'm not in peak shape?

The operator recommends this tour for travelers with a high level of physical fitness and is not recommended for those with poor cardiovascular health or spinal injuries. If you're unsure, contact the operator before booking to discuss the difficulty and your fitness level.

What time does the hike start and end?

The tour is 8 hours total, starting at Greenbrier Entrance. You'll meet at Greenbrier Parking Area 1 in Gatlinburg. Contact the operator for your exact start time when you book.