Grotto Falls is an amazing 25 foot waterfall. The trail is scenic and tranquil. Grotto Falls is the only waterfall in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park that you can walk behind. The trail is 2.6 miles round trip and is moderate difficulty.
The first section of trail is technically an access trail leading up to the Trillium Gap Trail at 0.15 miles. Go straight ahead to Trillium Gap. Most of the hike to Grotto Falls is an easy walk along a wide, 
well-worn path that runs beside streams (see photo to the right).
However, there are four small streams that you will have to cross where there are no footbridges. Be careful in the area around the waterfall is it is usually damp and slick, especially in the winter.
The Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, the best way to access Grotto Falls, is closed during the winter (from December through mid-March). However, you can still reach Grotto Falls from Rainbow Falls Trail, located off Cherokee Orchard Loop Road, but this will add another 3.4 miles to your round-trip hike.
Grotto Falls is one of my favorite waterfalls. It is a very scenic hike. It’s a pretty easy hike, but it is over 2.5 miles so it may be a little long for those with small kids. It can get pretty busy like most waterfalls in the Smokies so go early or in the off season to avoid the crowds. During the summer and fall it can be hard to find a place to park, especially on the weekends.
What a cool waterfall. I’m planning a trip to Gatlinburg soon, so I’ll be sure to check this one out. Just wanted to say I love reading through your blog and look forward to all your posts! Keep up the excellent work!