Porters Creek Trail

Nestled in the Smoky Mountains, Porters Creek Trail is a four-mile trail that is rated as moderately challenging. The out and back trail runs through thick woods, providing refreshing shade in summer. The hike is known for wildflowers, a historic farm, an old cemetery, and a 40-foot waterfall.

The trailhead for Porters Creek Trail is located at the Cosby Campground. From the campground, the trail winds through thick woods for about two miles before reaching the falls. The last two miles of the trail are relatively steep and can be challenging for some hikers.

The waterfall is located on Fern Branch, a tributary of the Pigeon River. The falls are about 40 feet high and are one of the tallest waterfalls in the Smoky Mountains.

In addition to the waterfall, the hike also passes by a historic farm and an old cemetery. The farmstead was once home to a family of six who lived off the land. Today, only the foundations of the buildings remain. The cemetery contains the graves of three members of the family who died in 1854.

Porters Creek Trail is a beautiful hike that is perfect for those who are looking for a challenge. The hike is known for its wildflowers, historic farm, old cemetery, and 40-foot waterfall. If you are planning on hiking to Fern Branch Falls, be sure to wear proper footwear and bring plenty of water.