Published: July 26, 2025 | Updated: July 13, 2026
The Porters Creek Trail is one of the best hikes in the Greenbrier area of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Known for its spectacular spring wildflowers, historic structures, peaceful forest scenery, and the picturesque Fern Branch Falls, this family-friendly trail offers a rewarding experience throughout the year.
The Porters Creek Trailhead is approximately 7.3 miles from Ridge View Lodge and about 9.1 miles from Appalachian Escape, making it one of the closest waterfall hikes to our cabins.
Trail at a Glance
- Roundtrip Distance: Approximately 4 miles
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Elevation Gain: About 550 feet
- Trail Type: Out-and-back
- Highlights: Fern Branch Falls, historic buildings, spring wildflowers, old-growth forest
- Best Time to Visit: March through May for wildflowers; October for fall color
Trailhead (Mile 0.0)
The trail begins at the Greenbrier entrance on the east side of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The first mile follows an old gravel road with a gentle uphill grade, making for an easy warm-up. Towering tulip poplars, hemlocks, and magnolias shade the route while Porters Creek flows nearby.
If you visit in early spring, you'll immediately understand why this trail is considered one of the premier wildflower destinations in the Smokies. Thousands of blooming wildflowers line the forest floor from late March through April.
Mile 0.3 – First Creek Crossing
The first creek crossing is usually shallow and can often be crossed using stepping stones. After periods of heavy rain, expect higher water and slower footing.
Listen for the sounds of rushing water and native songbirds while enjoying one of the quietest sections of the Greenbrier area.
Mile 0.4 – Historic Stone Walls
As you continue along the old roadbed, you'll begin seeing stacked stone walls that once marked property boundaries for families who lived in the Porters Creek community before the establishment of Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
These remnants offer a glimpse into everyday mountain life before the area became protected parkland.
Mile 0.7 – Ownby Cemetery
A short spur trail on the right leads to the historic Ownby Cemetery, where several members of one of the area's early families are buried. Visitors are encouraged to remain respectful and stay within the established paths while exploring this historic site.
Mile 1.0 – Trail Junction & Footbridge
Cross the wooden footbridge over Porters Creek. Immediately afterward, the trail reaches a junction.
- Right: Historic Farmstead (short detour)
- Left: Continue toward Fern Branch Falls
Historic Farmstead Detour (Optional)
The short side trail leads to one of the best-preserved historic areas in the Greenbrier section of the park.
- Cantilever Barn – An excellent example of traditional Appalachian barn construction and one of the most photographed historic structures in the Smokies.
- Smoky Mountains Hiking Club Cabin – Built during the 1930s, this rustic log cabin served members of the Smoky Mountains Hiking Club and remains an important piece of the park's hiking history.
After exploring the farmstead, return to the main trail and continue toward Fern Branch Falls. The trail narrows into single-track as rhododendron and hardwood forest begin to surround the path.
Mile 1.2 – Entering the Old-Growth Forest
Beyond the historic farmstead, the trail transitions into one of the most impressive hardwood forests in the Greenbrier area. Massive tulip poplars, yellow birch, and other mature trees tower overhead, creating a cool, shaded canopy throughout much of the hike.
Many of these trees escaped the extensive logging that occurred elsewhere in the Smokies during the early 1900s, giving this section of trail a distinctly ancient feel.
Mile 1.6 – Wildflower Display & Second Footbridge
Cross another wooden footbridge before entering one of the most famous wildflower sections in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. During spring, the forest floor becomes covered with colorful native blooms.
Common Spring Wildflowers
- Large-flowered Trillium
- Yellow Trillium
- Bloodroot
- Hepatica
- Foamflower
- Spring Beauty
- Wild Geranium
- Jack-in-the-Pulpit
- White Fringed Phacelia
- Blue Phlox
- Violets
- Mayapple
Peak wildflower season generally runs from late March through early May, although blooming times vary depending on elevation and weather conditions each year.
Mile 2.0 – Fern Branch Falls
After approximately two miles, you'll arrive at Fern Branch Falls, a beautiful waterfall cascading roughly 60 feet down a rocky hillside. Although not one of the park's largest waterfalls, its peaceful setting and easy accessibility make it one of the most rewarding waterfall hikes near Gatlinburg.
The waterfall flows year-round, with the strongest water levels typically occurring after periods of rain and during the spring months. Moss-covered rocks, ferns, and hardwood forest surround the falls, creating excellent opportunities for photography.
Many visitors choose to relax here before making the return hike to the trailhead.
Beyond Fern Branch Falls
Experienced hikers can continue past the waterfall toward Backcountry Campsite 31. The trail becomes narrower and climbs steadily through remote forest before reaching the campsite several miles farther up the drainage.
Most visitors turn around at Fern Branch Falls, making it the primary destination for this hike.
Photography Tips
- Visit early in the morning for the quietest experience.
- Spring offers the best combination of waterfalls and wildflowers.
- Autumn brings beautiful fall foliage throughout the valley.
- A wide-angle lens works well for photographing Fern Branch Falls.
- After rainfall, the waterfall is especially impressive.
Whether you're interested in spring wildflowers, Smoky Mountain history, scenic waterfalls, or simply enjoying one of the quieter corners of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Porters Creek Trail is a rewarding hike that appeals to visitors of all ages.
Trail Logistics & Hiking Tips
| Roundtrip Distance | Approximately 4 miles |
| Difficulty | Easy to Moderate |
| Elevation Gain | About 550 feet |
| Trail Type | Out-and-back |
| Trail Surface | Gravel road for the first mile, followed by a natural dirt trail. |
| Best Time to Visit | Late March through early May for wildflowers; October for fall colors. |
| Parking | Available at the Porters Creek Trailhead in the Greenbrier section of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. |
| Restrooms | Vault toilets are available near the trailhead. |
| Cell Service | Limited to none once you're on the trail. |
Helpful Hiking Tips
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes, especially after rain when portions of the trail can be muddy.
- Bring drinking water, snacks, and a camera.
- Stay on designated trails to help protect sensitive wildflowers and historic sites.
- Wildlife is common throughout the Greenbrier area. Observe animals from a safe distance and never feed them.
- Pack out everything you bring into the park and follow Leave No Trace principles.
Stay Just A Few Miles From Porters Creek Trail
If you're planning to explore the quieter side of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, our privately owned cabins provide a peaceful home base with easy access to the Greenbrier entrance, Porters Creek Trail, Cosby, Gatlinburg, and many other scenic destinations.
Ridge View Lodge is located about 7.3 miles from the Porters Creek Trailhead, while Appalachian Escape is approximately 9.1 miles away.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Porters Creek Trail?
The hike to Fern Branch Falls is approximately 4 miles round trip.
Is Porters Creek Trail difficult?
The trail is generally considered easy to moderate. Most hikers with average fitness can comfortably complete the hike.
When is the best time to hike Porters Creek Trail?
Late March through early May is the most popular time thanks to spectacular wildflower displays. Fall is also an excellent season for colorful foliage.
Can you see a waterfall on Porters Creek Trail?
Yes. Fern Branch Falls is located about two miles from the trailhead and is the main destination for most hikers.
Are dogs allowed on Porters Creek Trail?
No. Like nearly all trails within Great Smoky Mountains National Park, pets are not permitted on Porters Creek Trail.
Is there parking at the trailhead?
Yes. Free parking is available at the Porters Creek Trailhead, although spaces can fill quickly during spring weekends.
How far is Porters Creek Trail from Gatlinburg?
The trailhead is approximately 10 miles from downtown Gatlinburg, depending on your route.
What makes Porters Creek Trail unique?
Porters Creek combines beautiful spring wildflowers, historic structures, mature hardwood forests, and a scenic waterfall, making it one of the most diverse hikes in the Greenbrier area of Great Smoky Mountains National Park.