Overview
The Appalachian Trail passes through approximately 90 miles of Cherokee National Forest, and the section from Dennis Cove north through Laurel Fork Gorge is among the most spectacular. The trail drops into a tight gorge carved by Laurel Fork, passing a 40-foot waterfall before climbing past cliff walls draped in old-growth hemlock to reach open ridge forest above.
This is a trail for hikers who want authentic Appalachian Trail scenery without a shuttle or an overnight commitment, accessible from the small town of Hampton in Carter County near the Virginia border.
The Route
Miles 0.0 to 0.8: Dennis Cove to Gorge Entry
The trail departs the Dennis Cove Campground area and follows Hampton Creek downstream briefly before turning north toward Laurel Fork. The first 0.8 mile is relatively flat, crossing small tributary streams on wooden footbridges.
Miles 0.8 to 2.5: Gorge Section to Falls
The trail enters the gorge proper and the terrain becomes more rugged. Cliff walls rise on both sides as the path follows the creek. Hemlock trees, some quite large, line the water. At mile 2.5, Laurel Fork Falls drops into a pool in the gorge. Most day hikers spend time here before deciding whether to continue.
Miles 2.5 to 3.4: Falls to Ridge Climb
Above the falls, the AT climbs steeply out of the gorge through old-growth-style forest. The grade is the most demanding section of the route, gaining several hundred feet in less than a mile. The turnaround at mile 3.4 reaches a ridge with views before the AT descends again.
Miles 3.4 to 6.8: Return
Return the same route. The descent into and through the gorge is memorable in the reverse direction with different light angles.
When to Hike
April through May provides spring wildflowers on the gorge floor and full water flow at Laurel Fork Falls.
June through September the gorge stays cool relative to surrounding terrain.
October delivers fall color along the gorge walls, particularly the hardwood canopy above the hemlock understory.
November through March requires care on the rocky gorge trail sections, which can be icy in cold weather.
What to Bring
Many hikers carry 2 liters of water for this route. Laurel Fork is present throughout the gorge and can be filtered, but carry enough for the full round trip. Trekking poles are helpful on the steep climb above the falls. Waterproof boots are practical given the creek crossings in the lower gorge.
Trailhead Access
Dennis Cove Campground is located off Hampton Creek Cove Road near Hampton, Tennessee. No fee to hike (as of 2026). The campground itself has a fee for overnight use. Vault toilets at the campground. Parking is at the campground trailhead area.
Nearby
Roan Mountain Highlands Trail continues the AT theme at a very different elevation and character, accessible from Carvers Gap about 20 miles to the south. Pond Mountain Wilderness Loop lies in the same northern unit and provides a different loop format.
Check AT trail conditions and any seasonal closures at checking conditions before you go. Practice Leave No Trace principles throughout, and camp only at established AT shelter sites or properly set-back dispersed sites if doing an overnight.