Porters Creek Trail
A seldom-traveled trail which travels through lush, shady forests.
Plan Around Porters Creek Trail
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Porters Creek Trail Details
This seldom-traveled trail travels through lush, shady forests into what was once a thriving farming community. A number of old stone walls, now overgrown with brambles and wildflowers are visible from the old gravel road that marks the beginning of the trail, as well as the John Messer Farm Site, which features a 1930s log cabin and a late 19th century barn. The trail then converges with a small, fast-moving creek that eventually leaps over a small ledge and becomes Fern Branch Falls, one of the least visited falls in the park.
Difficulty
Moderate
Distance
2 miles
Estimated time
1 hour
Region
N/A
Nearby Parks Around Porters Creek Trail
Compare nearby parks around Porters Creek Trail when deciding whether to expand the route after this stop.
Nearby Points of Interest Around Porters Creek Trail
Use nearby POIs to quickly expand your options beyond Porters Creek Trail while the map context is still fresh.
0.7 mi away
Greenbrier
Now a recreational area, Greenbrier was once home to a string of Appalachian communities.
0.9 mi away
John Messer Barn
A historic structure within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
1.0 mi away
Greenbrier Picnic Area
12 sites, pavilion available, open year-round
3.8 mi away
Grotto Falls
These 25-foot falls create a unique opportunity to stand behind a waterfall!
