Easy hikes and walks in Pond Mountain Wilderness
5.0
(15)
167
hikers
11
hikes
Hiking in Pond Mountain Wilderness offers access to a rugged and diverse landscape within the Cherokee National Forest. The region features steep, forested slopes, deep gorges, and significant elevation changes. Key natural features include the Laurel Fork Gorge with its cascading waterfalls, and sections of the Appalachian Trail. The wilderness also encompasses the Watauga Scenic Area, characterized by upright cliffs and rocky outcroppings.
Best easy hiking trails in Pond Mountain Wilderness
- The most popular easy hiking route is Laurel Falls…
Last updated: May 18, 2026
6
hikers
3.77km
01:02
100m
0m
Embark on the easy Laurel Falls Trail, a delightful hike that guides you through a vibrant mixed hardwood forest. As you follow the path, you will encounter the impressive 80-foot,…
5
hikers
1.90km
00:33
10m
100m
Embark on an easy hike to Laurel Falls via Appalachian Trail, a refreshing journey covering 1.2 miles (1.9 km) with a gentle elevation gain of just 38 feet (12 metres).…
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4.62km
01:17
90m
90m
Embark on an easy hike along the Appalachian Trail from Oliver Hollow Road to Watauga Dam, a route spanning 2.9 miles (4.6 km). You will gain 289 feet (88 metres)…
5.0
(1)
19
hikers
3.80km
01:05
80m
80m
Embark on an easy hike along the Appalachian Trail from Dennis Cove to Laurel Falls, a 2.4-mile (3.8 km) out-and-back route that takes about 1 hour and 5 minutes to…
5.0
(1)
6
hikers
5.68km
01:57
300m
300m
The Coon Den Falls and Appalachian Trail Loop offers an easy hike through the Cherokee National Forest, perfect for a refreshing outing. You will follow a segment of the iconic…
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Tips from the Community
The Appalachian Trail passes right over the top of Watauga Dam and looks over Watauga Lake. With the Pond Mountain Wilderness to the south and the Big Laurel Branch Wilderness to the north, this is a wild and secluded part of the AT. Once you get away from the boaters at the marina, you'll have a lot of solitude in either direction.
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The Appalachian Trail passes right over the top of Watauga Dam and looks over Watauga Lake. With the Pond Mountain Wilderness to the south and the Big Laurel Branch Wilderness to the north, this is a wild and secluded part of the AT. Once you get away from the boaters at the marina, you'll have a lot of solitude in either direction.
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The Appalachian Trail passes right over the top of Watauga Dam and looks over Watauga Lake. With the Pond Mountain Wilderness to the south and the Big Laurel Branch Wilderness to the north, this is a wild and secluded part of the AT. Once you get away from the boaters at the marina, you'll have a lot of solitude in either direction.
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This section of the Appalachian Trail leads from Dennis Cove to Laurel Falls. The trail starts off pretty wide with lots of areas on the side of the trail to post up next to the creek running beside the path, but once you get closer to the falls, the trail gets much rockier and more technical with water crossings and bridges.
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This bridge crosses over the Laurel Fork waterway, which gets pretty full in the spring and summer months. You actually have to cross the water a handful of times between here and Laurel Falls.
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Laurel Falls is a really popular hiking destination. You can get there by taking the Appalachian Trail from Dennis Cove or by starting over in Hampton on the Blueline Trail. Note while out here that the white blazes on the trees and rocks are for the Appalachian Trail and the blue blazes are for the Blueline Trail. There is a super steep set of rock stairs for the final 200 meters down to the water. Be prepared to get in a workout once you leave the falls area!
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Laurel Falls is a really popular hiking destination. You can get there by taking the Appalachian Trail from Dennis Cove or by starting over in Hampton on the Blueline Trail. Note while out here that the white blazes on the trees and rocks are for the Appalachian Trail and the blue blazes are for the Blueline Trail. There is a super steep set of rock stairs for the final 200 meters down to the water. Be prepared to get in a workout once you leave the falls area. If you can run up all the steps without having to hike at all, you're an absolute beast!
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Coon Den Falls is a super cool 70-foot waterfall that doesn't see too many visitors. The trail leading up to the cascade follows the Coon Den Branch stream up to the foot of the cliff that the water pours off of. The upper 20 feet of the waterfall are hidden by bushes and leaves, but this cascade is still worth a visit if there has been any decent precipitation recently.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many easy hiking trails are available in Pond Mountain Wilderness?
There are 6 easy hiking trails in Pond Mountain Wilderness, perfect for a relaxed outdoor experience. In total, komoot offers 11 routes in the area, catering to various skill levels.
Are the easy trails in Pond Mountain Wilderness suitable for families with children?
Yes, many of the easy trails are ideal for families. They generally feature gentle inclines and manageable distances. For example, the Laurel Falls Trail offers a rewarding experience with a beautiful waterfall at the end, suitable for most ages.
Can I bring my dog on the easy hiking trails in Pond Mountain Wilderness?
Pond Mountain Wilderness is generally dog-friendly, but it's always best to keep your dog on a leash to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all hikers. Always check specific trail regulations before you go.
Are there any waterfalls on the easy hiking trails in Pond Mountain Wilderness?
Absolutely! The region is known for its beautiful cascades. You can experience the prominent 55-foot Laurel Falls on easy routes like the Laurel Falls Trail or the Laurel Falls via Appalachian Trail. The Coon Den Falls and Appalachian Trail Loop also features a waterfall.
What kind of natural features or viewpoints can I expect on these easy hikes?
Even on easy trails, you'll encounter diverse natural beauty. Expect lush upland hardwood forests, serene streams, and potentially glimpses of the rugged terrain. Some trails offer scenic overlooks with breathtaking vistas of Watauga Lake and the surrounding mountains. Keep an eye out for unique geological formations like Buckled Rock, a 150-foot vertical cliff.
Are there any easy loop trails in Pond Mountain Wilderness?
Yes, there are easy loop options available. The Coon Den Falls and Appalachian Trail Loop is an easy route that allows you to experience different sections of the wilderness without retracing your steps.
What is the best time of year to go for an easy hike in Pond Mountain Wilderness?
Pond Mountain Wilderness offers beauty year-round. Spring brings lush greenery and blooming wildflowers, while fall showcases vibrant foliage. Summer is pleasant for shaded walks, and even winter offers a quiet, serene atmosphere, though some trails might be icy. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.
How long do easy hikes in Pond Mountain Wilderness typically take?
Easy hikes in Pond Mountain Wilderness vary in length and duration. For instance, the Laurel Falls via Appalachian Trail can be completed in about 30-40 minutes, while the Coon Den Falls and Appalachian Trail Loop might take around 2 hours.
Where can I park for easy hiking trails in Pond Mountain Wilderness?
Parking availability varies by trailhead. Many popular access points, such as those for Laurel Falls or sections of the Appalachian Trail, have designated parking areas. It's advisable to check the specific route details on komoot for parking information related to your chosen trail, like the access point for Appalachian Trail: Oliver Hollow Road to Watauga Dam.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the easy trails in Pond Mountain Wilderness?
The easy trails in Pond Mountain Wilderness are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars. Reviewers often praise the peaceful and rugged environment, the well-maintained paths, and the stunning natural beauty, especially the waterfalls and scenic overlooks. Hikers appreciate the opportunity to connect with nature without overly challenging terrain.
Are there opportunities for wildlife spotting on easy trails?
Yes, the serene atmosphere and diverse forests of Pond Mountain Wilderness provide excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing. Keep an eye out for various bird species, deer, and other small mammals. Maintaining a quiet presence increases your chances of spotting local fauna.
Most popular routes in Pond Mountain Wilderness
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