Waterfall Hikes In The Smoky Mountains
Get those hiking boots ready because you’re in for a fantastic waterfall adventure in the beautiful Smoky Mountains!
Are you looking for a chill walk or a hardcore hike?
If you’re into easy-going nature vibes, there are waterfalls you can check out right from your car. Just pull up, hop out, and enjoy the view. But suppose you’re up for some adventure and love a good hike – in that case, some unbelievable hidden waterfalls await you at the end of some pretty challenging trails.
As you walk, some of the most extraordinary routes end at gorgeous waterfalls where you can sit and soak up the peaceful surroundings. Ahhh, so relaxing!
Here’s a tip: Go in spring when melting snow and rain make the falls fuller and super impressive, insane views!
The Smokies have so many waterfall route for you. Let the chill sound of the cascades guide your adventure. Check out some top picks below to start getting pumped for your ultimate Smoky Mountain waterfall trek! Time to make some plans!
Check out this fantastic 5-mile hike, leading you to one of the park’s most impressive waterfalls. It’s right off Cades Cove Loop Road and is the perfect mix of soaking up nature and getting a good workout.
The trail is easy-going, with mild uphill parts as you walk alongside the peaceful Abrams Creek and over three green ridges. Stop at the Arbutus Ridge viewpoint, especially when the leaves are born – the view is incredible.
If you’re looking for those perfect social media snaps, don’t miss the charming footbridge along the trail – it’s a picturesque spot for photos. The surrounding natural beauty is exceptional, especially with the creek winding into stunning horseshoe bends. These are particularly visible from the ridge in winter, offering a breathtaking view you won’t want to miss capturing!
Then you get to the big show – Abrams Falls, a 20-foot waterfall with a fantastic plunge pool that’s totally photo-worthy. Just follow the signs to get there. But be careful around this spot, as there have been some safety issues.
All in all, the Abrams Falls Trail is more than just a walk in the woods. It’s an unforgettable journey that really captures the wild and beautiful spirit of the Smoky Mountains. You’ll be thinking about those views long after you’ve headed home.
Key Facts:
- Trail Length: A 5-Mile Journey
- Hike Duration: 3 to 4 Hours of Adventure
- Trail Difficulty: Rated Moderate
- Elevation Insight: 340 Feet Gain
- Peak Height: Reaching 1,710 Feet
- Scenic Highlights: Waterfall, Creek, and Wildflowers
Before You Hike:
- Arrival Time: Arrive early, preferably by 9:30 am or after 4:00 pm, to avoid crowds, especially on weekends and holidays.
- Gear and Preparation: Wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring trekking poles. Carry enough food and water, and practice the Leave No Trace principle.
- Safety Measures: Avoid swimming at Abrams Falls due to strong currents and undertow. Do not climb on rocks around the waterfall, and supervise children closely.
- Timing and Seasonality: Consider visiting during off-season or rainy periods for fewer crowds and higher water flows. Start hikes early to avoid being out after dark.
- Wildlife Awareness: Be cautious of black bears and follow park guidelines for wildlife encounters.
- Trail Restrictions: Pets and bicycles are not allowed. Be prepared to cross three narrow log bridges.
Directions:
To begin your hike at Abrams Falls, start from the field at stop #10 on the Cades Cove Loop Road. Drive five miles on the loop to reach the trailhead. After crossing Abrams Creek, turn right onto a gravel road through a grassy field.
Distance from:
Pigeon Forge: 31.9 Miles
Cherokee: 62.4 Miles
Gatlinburg: 34.0 Miles
Townsend: 16.6 Miles
Head to Baskins Creek Falls, a stunning 40-foot waterfall in the Great Smoky Mountains near Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. It’s a 3-mile hike packed with wildlife, lush forests, and fabulous views – a real treat for anyone looking to enjoy some peaceful time in nature.
When you get to this fantastic spot, please take a moment to enjoy it quietly. Spend some time just sitting and listening to the water and watching how the falls change with the seasons, from the bright flowers of spring to the gentle snow in early winter.
If you love hiking or want to find a beautiful, quiet spot, you’ve got to check out Baskins Creek Falls when you’re near Pigeon Forge. It’s a fantastic little escape just a stone’s throw from the city, offering stunning scenery and the excitement of discovering something new.
Key Facts:
- Trail Length: A 3-Mile Journey
- Hike Duration: 2 to 3 Hours of Adventure
- Trail Difficulty: Rated Easy
- Elevation Insight: 953 Feet Gain
- Peak Height: Reaching 2,927 Feet
- Scenic Highlights: Waterfall
Before You Hike:
- Trail Conditions: Check the trail status beforehand for closures or hazards, especially after weather events.
- Proper Footwear: Wear hiking boots with a good grip for the rocky and uneven terrain.
- Hydration and Essentials: Bring a map, compass, or GPS, as cell service can be unreliable. Also, pack snacks, a first-aid kit, and weather-appropriate clothing.
- Wildlife Respect: Observe any wildlife from afar and avoid feeding them.
- Parking: Arrive early as parking spaces are limited, especially on busy days.
- Slippery Surfaces: Be cautious of slippery rocks and paths near the waterfall.
- Weather Preparedness: Be ready for sudden mountain weather changes and check forecasts.
Directions:
Head south on US 441 to Gatlinburg, then turn right on East Parkway and left on Cherokee Orchard Road. Follow it as it becomes Historic Nature Trail, then keep right at the fork to start the one-way loop. Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail is 0.9 miles down on the right, and just 0.2 miles further is the trailhead for Baskins Creek Trail.
Distance from:
Pigeon Forge: 14.4 Miles
Cherokee: 41.1 Miles
Gatlinburg: 7.9 Miles
Townsend: 28.8 Miles
Just an hour’s drive from the Great Smoky Mountains’ towering peaks lies a hidden wonder—the breathtaking 80-foot Laurel Falls cascading through lush forest. This 1.3-mile trail offers excitement for seasoned hikers and casual walkers alike.
Walking surrounded by lush trees and twisting streams, each season provides delightful sights. Spring blooms decorate the path with mountain laurels and rhododendrons, while fall paints the landscape in vibrant hues. Although the terrain is steep and uneven in places, this adds thrill to the experience.
When you arrive at the magnificent two-tiered Laurel Falls, a walkway splits the cascading water. You can get close to the upper falls, feeling the refreshing mist.
The Laurel Falls Trail encapsulates the magnificent scenery the Smoky Mountains are renowned for. More than a mere hike, it’s a memorable journey that inspires awe.
Key Facts:
- Trail Length: A 2.6-Mile Journey
- Hike Duration: 2 to 3 Hours of Adventure
- Trail Difficulty: Rated Easy/Moderate
- Elevation Insight: 314 Feet Gain
- Peak Height: Reaching 2,677 Feet
- Scenic Highlights: Mountain laurel, Rhododendron, waterfall
Before You Hike:
- Arrive Early or Late: Beat the crowds and parking challenges by visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
- Wear Appropriate Footwear: Opt for sturdy shoes with good grip due to the trail’s uneven and slippery nature.
- Stay on the Trail: Protect the environment and ensure safety by sticking to the marked trail.
- Keep an Eye on Children: Supervise children closely, especially near steep drop-offs and falls.
- Be Prepared for Weather Changes: Bring layers and a waterproof jacket for unpredictable mountain weather.
- Stay Hydrated: Carry enough water, as no water sources are along the trail.
- Respect Wildlife: Observe wildlife from a distance and do not feed or approach them.
- Take Your Time at the Falls: Enjoy the falls, but be cautious on slippery rocks.
- Check Park Conditions: Visit the park’s website for trail updates and advisories before heading out.
Directions:
From Sugarlands Visitors Center, turn toward Cades Cove on Little River Road.
Drive 3.5 miles to the trailhead, where parking areas are on both sides of the road.
Distance from:
Pigeon Forge: 14.7 Miles
Cherokee: 36.5 Miles
Gatlinburg: 8.1 Miles
Townsend: 15.1 Miles
This memorable hike in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park treats adventurers to ancient forests, colorful wildflowers, and a thundering 25-foot waterfall to walk behind.
What makes Grotto Falls unique is the opportunity to walk behind the flowing water curtain. Feel the cool, moist air as you take in this natural habitat.
Feel like extending your hike? Go two more miles to Brushy Mountain or test your stamina on the 5.6-mile trek to breathtaking views from Mt. LeConte’s summit.
When the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail is closed in winter, start from the Rainbow Falls Trailhead, tacking on some extra distance.
Grotto Falls promises more than a hike. It’s a chance to connect with nature and savor special memories. It is an experience for hikers of every skill level.
Key Facts:
- Trail Length: A 3 -Mile Journey
- Hike Duration: 2 to 3 Hours of Adventure
- Trail Difficulty: Rated Moderate
- Elevation Insight: 585 Feet Gain
- Peak Height: Reaching 3,777 Feet
- Scenic Highlights: Waterfalls, Old Growth Forest
Before You Hike:
- Right Footwear: Wear sturdy hiking boots for the rocky and uneven terrain.
- Stay Hydrated: Bring enough water, especially during warmer months.
- Check the Weather: Look up the local weather forecast before hiking.
- Start Early: Begin early to avoid crowds and enjoy a quieter experience.
- Respect Wildlife: Maintain a safe distance from any wildlife you encounter.
- Wet Conditions: Be cautious near the waterfall as it can be slippery.
- Take Breaks: Rest when needed and enjoy the surroundings.
- Carry a Map or GPS: Useful for navigation, especially if venturing beyond the main trail.
Directions:
Begin at Light #8 in Gatlinburg, then turn onto Historic Nature Trail/Airport Road. Next, take a right onto Cherokee Orchard Road. After 2.2 miles, you’ll reach the Cherokee Orchard Loop, a one-way route. Drive for about a mile on this loop, then turn right onto the Roaring Fork Nature Trail. The parking for Grotto Falls Trail is 1.6 miles ahead on the left, and you’ll find the trailhead across the road.
Distance from:
Pigeon Forge: 12.7 Miles
Cherokee: 39.4 Miles
Gatlinburg: 6.2 Miles
Townsend: 27.1 Miles
This cascading natural wonder offers a delightful experience for you. The flowing falls transform dramatically between delicate streams and raging torrents depending on seasonal rainfall.
Reaching the falls themselves involves an uphill hiking challenge. The journey starts quickly enough, following the gently winding Middle Saluda River. But after crossing a bridged landmark, the terrain turns more challenging with a steep, demanding climb. The compensations along the trail are peaceful nature and striking mountain views around each turn.
And once you see Rainbow Falls, it’s absolutely breathtaking. These cool spots around the base allow you to chill out and take epic photos. If you get close enough, the waterfall’s spray is super refreshing – like nature’s mist.
For any nature lover seeking adventure and beauty intertwined with physical demands, conquering the trail to Rainbow Falls delivers magnificent rewards reflecting nature’s majesty.
Key Facts:
- Trail Length: A 5.4 -Mile Journey
- Hike Duration: 2 to 3 Hours of Adventure
- Trail Difficulty: Rated Moderate
- Elevation Insight: 1685 Feet Gain
- Peak Height: Reaching 4,285 Feet
- Scenic Highlights: Waterfalls, Old Growth Forest
Before You Hike:
- Check Weather: Always check the forecast before you go.
- Start Early: Begin your hike early to avoid crowds and have ample daylight.
- Proper Gear: Wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring water, snacks, and a first aid kit.
- Parking Reservations: Book your parking 24 hours in advance on weekends and holidays.
- Stay on Trails: Follow the marked trails to ensure safety and protect the environment.
- Pace Yourself: The hike is strenuous; take breaks and don’t rush.
- Stay Hydrated: Carry enough water, especially on hot days.
- Watch Your Step: Be cautious on rocky and uneven terrain.
- Respect Wildlife: Keep a safe distance from any animals you encounter.
- Safety Near Falls: Be careful around the waterfall, especially on slippery rocks.
Directions:
To reach the Rainbow Falls trailhead in Great Smoky Mountain National Park, start at light #8 in Gatlinburg, follow the Historic Nature Trail/Airport Road, turn right onto Cherokee Orchard Road, enter the park, drive 2.2 miles, then enter the Cherokee Orchard Loop, and after about a half-mile, the trailhead is on your right.
Distance from:
Pigeon Forge: 11.8 Miles
Cherokee: 38.5 Miles
Gatlinburg: 5.3 Miles
Townsend: 27.1 Miles