Courthouse Rock — Attraction in Gatlinburg

Very cool, not so well diamond in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Courthouse Rock is an unusual natural rock formation unique to the Smoky Mountains. The rock is actually the only free standing rock formation of its kind in the Smokies. The rock is composed of several layers of granite, sandstone, and one layer of quartz piled as much as 60 feet high forming one large rock shaped liked a pillar. The rock is smooth on four sides with some crevices allowing climbers a place to scale the heights of the rock. The top is a flat surface that would allow a dedicated rock climber an awe inspiring view of the valley below. There is also Quilliams waterfall on the way to Courthouse rock and if you go on up the mountain you will get to see a large cave. Pictures included. Check out Jeff Mullins...

Great rock, somewhat demanding trail to get there but worth it. Took my 5 months daughter. The rock is huge. In the mid august the trail started to be grown over. Spotted 2 black bear near the trail by the creek. Use a trail app to make sure to stay on trail, otherwise you could go to far or go in the wrong direction. The trail is not marked, the final ascent...

My wife and I hiked to courthouse Rock today. Anyone who claims the destination isn't worth the hike probably went to the lower rock.. Which we did first. Watch for arrow markings on trees and logs and rocks.. we spent about 7 hours from start to finish even in a heavy downpour of rain... Rachel...