Popular Great Smoky Mountains National Park trail closing in 2025 for rehabilitation

GATLINBURG, T.N. (FOX Carolina) – The National Park Service (NPS) announced that Laurel Falls Trail in Great Smoky Mountains National Park will close in 2025 for rehabilitation.

NPS said the trail will be closed for 18 months beginning on Jan. 6, 2025.

The park will construct new viewing platforms at the falls to improve visitor flow and reduce hazards associated with the slippery and steep area surrounding the falls as part of the rehabilitation.

The park plans to repave and widen the asphalt trail and install new signs and educational panels to provide guidance on wayfinding, bear safety and Leave No Trace principles.

The park plans to repave and widen the asphalt trail and install new signs and educational panels to provide guidance on wayfinding, bear safety and Leave No Trace principles.

Construction of a designated pathway with a guardrail that will safely connect pedestrians from the parking lot to the trailhead in addition to 50 new parking spaces has also been planned.

Acting Superintendent Boone Vandzura said, “Laurel Falls Trail is a beloved feature of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The rehabilitation will provide for greater safety and an enhanced visitor experience; we look forward to enjoying the trail together once work is complete.”

Access to Laurel Falls will be closed from both Little River Road and the junction of Little Greenbrier Trail and Cove Mountain Trail during the rehabilitation process. Sugarland Mountain Trail and its parking lot will also be closed, with no use or drop-offs permitted