Why Waterfall Hikes Are a Smoky Mountain Must-Do
The Great Smoky Mountains are known for having one of the highest concentrations of waterfalls in the eastern United States. This is largely due to the park’s elevation changes, dense forest coverage, and consistent rainfall throughout the year. Water flows naturally through mountain streams, creating waterfalls of varying sizes, from small cascades to large, dramatic drops. Because of this terrain, waterfalls are spread throughout the park rather than concentrated in one area, making them a defining feature of the Smoky Mountain landscape.
In the Smokies, most waterfalls are not visible from the road. Instead, they are located along established trails that follow streams, rivers, and mountain slopes. As a result, hiking is not the focus of the experience, but rather the way visitors access the waterfalls. The distance, elevation, and trail conditions determine how easy or challenging it is to reach each waterfall. Including this information helps visitors understand what to expect before they go, especially when planning a trip with limited time or varying ability levels.
Waterfall hikes also allow visitors to experience more of the park beyond the final destination. Trails often pass through wooded areas, cross bridges, and follow flowing water, offering scenic views throughout the walk. This makes the journey to the waterfall just as important as the waterfall itself, especially for those looking to spend time outdoors without committing to a full-day hike.
Another reason waterfall hikes are so popular in the Smoky Mountains is that they can be enjoyed year-round. While water flow changes depending on rainfall and season, most waterfalls remain accessible throughout the year. Some visitors prefer periods of heavier flow, while others enjoy quieter trails or winter scenery. Because conditions vary, understanding the trail and access points becomes even more important.
This guide is designed to help visitors choose waterfalls based on how they want to experience them. Some waterfalls require only a short walk and are suitable for families or casual visitors, while others involve longer or more challenging trails that appeal to experienced hikers. By organizing waterfalls by access level and difficulty, this guide makes it easier to select the right waterfall for your schedule, comfort level, and overall trip plans, while keeping the focus on the waterfalls themselves.
What to Know Before Hiking to Waterfalls in the Smoky Mountains
Waterfalls in the Smoky Mountains are located across a wide range of terrain, from relatively flat paths to trails with steady elevation gain. Even shorter waterfall hikes can include uphill sections, so distance alone does not always reflect difficulty. Checking elevation and trail length in advance helps set realistic expectations.
Trail surfaces vary depending on the location. Some waterfall trails are paved or well-maintained, while others include dirt paths, rocks, and exposed roots. Near waterfalls, footing can be uneven or slippery due to moisture, especially after rainfall.
Waterfall appearance changes throughout the year based on rainfall and weather patterns. Some waterfalls flow more heavily during wetter periods, while others may appear lighter during drier conditions. This does not affect access but can influence trail conditions and viewing areas.
When visiting waterfalls, basic safety awareness is important. Wet rocks, fast-moving water, and narrow paths are common near falls. Staying on marked trails and designated viewing areas helps ensure a safer visit.
Waterfall Hikes Near Gatlinburg
Gatlinburg offers access to a wide range of waterfall hikes, from short walks on well-maintained paths to longer trails with more elevation and uneven terrain. Some waterfalls can be reached in under a mile, while others require a steady hike through forested areas and along streams. Difficulty varies by distance, elevation change, and trail surface, so knowing what to expect helps visitors choose waterfalls that fit their time, ability level, and overall plans.
Laurel Falls
Laurel Falls is one of the most popular waterfalls near Gatlinburg, known for its distinctive two-tier drop and relatively short, well-established trail. When open, it’s often recommended for visitors looking for a straightforward waterfall hike with a strong visual payoff.
Location
Just outside Gatlinburg, near Sugarlands Visitor Center
Easily accessible from Fighting Creek Gap Road
Trail Length & Difficulty
1.3 miles one way to the waterfall
Rated moderate due to steady uphill sections
Paved trail, but edges can be rough and uneven
Waterfall Details
Approximately 75 feet tall
Divided into upper and lower sections by the trail
Footbridge allows visitors to cross between sections
Trail Features
Forested surroundings with seasonal wildflowers
Popular and heavily trafficked when open
Shaded for much of the hike
Important Rules & Notes
Dogs and bicycles are not permitted
Parking pass required for stops longer than 15 minutes
Can be crowded during peak travel seasons
Important Update
As of January 6, 2025, the Laurel Falls Trail is closed from the trailhead on Fighting Creek Gap Road to the junction with Little Greenbrier and Cove Mountain trails for approximately 18 months due to rehabilitation work. Check current park updates before planning a visit.
Grotto Falls
Grotto Falls is one of the most unique waterfalls near Gatlinburg and the only waterfall in the Smoky Mountains where visitors can walk behind the cascading water. Located just outside downtown Gatlinburg along the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, this waterfall is a popular stop for those looking for a scenic hike with a memorable payoff.
Location
Near Gatlinburg, along Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail
Accessed from Cherokee Orchard Road
A short drive from downtown Gatlinburg
Trail Length & Difficulty
2.6 miles round trip
Rated moderate
Gradual elevation gain of approximately 544 feet
Waterfall Details
Water flows over a rock overhang, allowing visitors to walk behind it
Strong visual experience, especially after rainfall
One of the most photographed waterfalls in the park
Trail Features
Forested trail through old-growth trees
Creek crossings and rocky sections
Wildflowers are common in spring, especially in May
Shaded trail for much of the hike
Important Rules & Notes
Dogs and bicycles are not permitted
Parking pass required for vehicles parked longer than 15 minutes
Can be busy during peak seasons
Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail is closed to large vehicles and is seasonal
Baskins Creek Falls
Baskins Creek Falls is a quieter, lesser-known waterfall near Gatlinburg that appeals to visitors looking for a more secluded experience. Despite being close to popular trails like Grotto Falls and Rainbow Falls, this waterfall sees far fewer hikers. The waterfall drops about 40 feet in two tiers and is reached via an unmaintained spur trail off the main Baskins Creek Trail.
Location
Along Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail
Trailhead located across from Trillium Gap Trail
Easily accessed from Cherokee Orchard Road
Trail Length & Difficulty
2.7 miles one way on Baskins Creek Trail
Rated moderate overall
Elevation gain of approximately 953 feet
Out-and-back or point-to-point options
Waterfall Details
Two-tiered waterfall approximately 40 feet tall
Reached via a steep, unmaintained side trail
Slippery and potentially hazardous near the falls
Trail Features
Forested trail with northern red oaks, eastern hemlocks, and striped maples
Stream crossing at Falls Branch around 1 mile
Rocky sections and steep climbs beyond the waterfall spur
Quiet trail compared to nearby routes
Important Rules & Notes
Dogs and bicycles are not permitted
Parking pass required for vehicles parked longer than 15 minutes
Feet may get wet after heavy rain due to stream crossings
Extra caution recommended near the unmaintained spur to the waterfall
Abrams Falls
Abrams Falls is one of the most powerful waterfalls in the Smoky Mountains. While the waterfall itself is only about 20 feet tall, the volume and speed of the water make it one of the most dramatic and well-known falls in the park. The hike follows Abrams Creek through forested terrain before opening up to the wide, fast-moving cascade and deep pool below.
Location
Located in the Cades Cove / Townsend area
Accessed from the Cades Cove Loop Road
Requires a longer drive from Gatlinburg compared to other waterfalls
Trail Length & Difficulty
Approximately 5 miles round trip
Rated moderate
Elevation gain of about 629 feet
Out-and-back trail following Abrams Creek
Waterfall Details
Roughly 20 feet tall
Known for extremely strong water flow
Large, deep pool at the base of the falls
Trail Features
Follows Abrams Creek for much of the hike
Forested surroundings with pine, oak, hemlock, and rhododendron
Mostly steady terrain with rocky sections
Restrooms available near the trailhead
Important Rules & Safety Notes
Swimming is strongly discouraged due to dangerous currents
Multiple accidents have occurred at the waterfall
Dogs and bicycles are not permitted
Parking pass required for vehicles parked longer than 15 minutes
Popular trail, especially during peak seasons
Rainbow Falls
Rainbow Falls is one of the most well-known waterfalls in the Smoky Mountains, recognized for its height and the mist that often creates rainbows on sunny afternoons. With an 80-foot single drop, it is the tallest named waterfall in the park and a popular destination for hikers looking for a more demanding trail with a dramatic payoff.
Location
Near Gatlinburg along Cherokee Orchard Road
Accessed via the Rainbow Falls Parking Area
Convenient starting point for longer hikes deeper into the park
Trail Length & Difficulty
Approximately 5.4 miles round trip to the waterfall
Rated moderate to hard
Elevation gain of roughly 3,900 feet
Steady uphill climb throughout much of the trail
Waterfall Details
80-foot single-drop waterfall
Mist frequently creates rainbows on sunny days
Can form ice around the falls during extended cold periods
Trail Features
Two footbridges along the route
Forested trail with river views and rocky sections
Picnic spots located along parts of the trail
Trail continues past the waterfall toward Mount LeConte
Important Rules & Safety Notes
Rocks near the waterfall are slippery due to mist and algae
Climbing on rocks near the falls is dangerous and discouraged
Dogs and bicycles are not permitted
Parking pass required for vehicles parked longer than 15 minutes
Popular trail with heavier foot traffic during peak seasons
Ramsey Cascades
Important Update:
The Ramsey Cascades Trail has been rehabilitated and is now open.
Ramsey Cascades is the tallest waterfall accessible by trail in the Smoky Mountains and one of the most impressive waterfall hikes in the park. Water drops roughly 100 feet over layered rock outcroppings, creating a wide, cascading flow that collects in a small pool at the base. The hike to the waterfall is long and demanding, but it rewards visitors with remote scenery and a quieter experience compared to more heavily trafficked trails.
Location
Located in the Greenbrier area of the park
Accessed via Greenbrier Road, east of Gatlinburg
Less crowded due to distance and difficulty
Trail Length & Difficulty
Approximately 7.9 miles round trip
Rated hard
Elevation gain of about 2,185 feet
Out-and-back trail
Waterfall Details
Around 100 feet tall
Fed by runoff from Mount Guyot
Small pool at the base, often home to salamanders
Trail Features
Follows rushing streams and rivers for much of the hike
Final miles pass through old-growth hardwood forest
Notable trees include tulip poplar, basswood, silverbell, and yellow birch
Remote feel compared to other waterfall trails
Important Rules & Notes
Dogs and bicycles are not permitted
Parking pass required for vehicles parked longer than 15 minutes
Hike typically takes 5–7 hours round trip
Best suited for experienced hikers with adequate time and preparation
Waterfalls Accessible by Car
Not all waterfalls in the Smoky Mountains require a hike. Some can be viewed directly from the road or reached with only a very short walk, making them a good option for visitors with limited time, mobility concerns, or those looking for a scenic stop without committing to a trail.
Meigs Falls
Meigs Falls is one of the most accessible waterfalls in the Smoky Mountains and can be viewed directly from the road. Tucked into the forest along Little River Road, this waterfall flows down into a stream below and is best enjoyed as a scenic roadside stop rather than a hiking destination.
Location
Along Little River Road
Between Gatlinburg and Townsend
Visible from the roadway with a designated pull-off
Access
No hiking required
Large roadside pull-off for viewing
One of the easiest waterfalls to see in the park
Waterfall Details
Multi-tiered waterfall flowing into a stream
Set back in the forest, creating a natural framed view
Flow varies depending on rainfall
Viewing Notes
Best viewed from the designated pull-off area
No marked trail or official viewing platform
Popular for quick stops and photos
Important Safety Notes
Climbing near the waterfall is dangerous
Serious injuries have occurred near waterfalls in the park
Visitors should remain in designated pull-off areas
How to Get There
From Gatlinburg: Travel west on Little River Road for about 13 miles from Sugarlands Visitor Center. The pull-off is roughly one mile past The Sinks on the left side of the road.
From Townsend: Travel east on Little River Road for about 7 miles. The pull-off will be on the right side of the road.
Look for the large pull-off lined with a distinctive stone wall, the only one of its kind along this stretch of road.
Place of a Thousand Drips
The Place of a Thousand Drips is a seasonal roadside waterfall known for its cascading flow across a wide rock face. Rather than a single drop, this waterfall appears as dozens of small streams that come to life after periods of heavy rain, making it one of the more visually dynamic waterfalls in the park when conditions are right.
Location
Along Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail
Near the end of the one-way scenic drive
Identified as stop #15 along the route
Access
Roadside viewing with nearby pull-outs
No hiking required
Easily viewed from a vehicle or short walk
Waterfall Details
Wide, cascading waterfall made up of multiple small streams
Flow is weather-dependent and most impressive after rain
Can be minimal or dry during drier periods
Viewing Notes
Best viewed from designated pull-off areas
Slick rocks near the waterfall can be hazardous
No formal trail or viewing platform
Important Safety Notes
Rocks near the waterfall are slippery and unsafe to climb
Visitors should remain in designated viewing areas
Injuries have occurred due to wet and uneven surfaces
How to Get There
Accessed via Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, which is seasonally closed
From Gatlinburg, enter Cherokee Orchard Road at stoplight #8
Continue past Rainbow Falls and turn onto Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail
Follow the one-way road toward the end; look for stop #15
Be aware that traffic along this route can be slow during busy time.
The Sinks
The Sinks is a powerful roadside waterfall known for its fast-moving water and jagged rock formations. While it is not a tall waterfall, the force of the river rushing through a narrow bend makes it one of the most striking and dangerous waterfalls in the Smoky Mountains. It is best viewed as a scenic stop rather than a place to explore up close.
Location
Along Little River Road
Between Gatlinburg and Townsend
Near Metcalf Bottoms Picnic Area
Access
Roadside viewing with a small parking area
No hiking required
Short walk from the parking lot to the viewing area
Waterfall Details
Short but extremely powerful cascade
Water rushes through a narrow, rocky channel
Flow remains strong year-round
History
Formed during the logging era
A log jam in the Little River was blasted with dynamite
The explosion altered the river’s path, creating the waterfall
Viewing Notes
Best viewed from designated viewing areas
Popular roadside stop for photos
Area is often loud due to rushing water
Important Safety Notes
Swimming is extremely dangerous and prohibited
Fatal drownings have occurred due to strong currents
Visitors should not climb on rocks or enter the water
Warning signage is posted near the site
How to Get There
From Gatlinburg: Travel west on Little River Road for about 12 miles from Sugarlands Visitor Center. Look for a small parking area on the left roughly one mile past Metcalf Bottoms Picnic Area.
From Townsend: Travel east on Little River Road for about 8 miles. Look for a small parking area on the right roughly one mile past Metcalf Bottoms Picnic Area.
Watch for red swift-water warning signage near the bridge by the parking area.
Things to Know Before Hiking to Waterfalls
Waterfall hikes in the Smoky Mountains come with unique conditions that differ from standard trail hikes. Changing terrain, wet surfaces, fast-moving water, and weather shifts can all affect the experience. Before heading out to any waterfall, it’s important to understand what to expect and how to prepare so you can hike safely and responsibly.
Hiking Essentials for Waterfall Trails
Waterfall hikes often involve wet ground, uneven footing, and limited cell service. Carrying basic essentials helps reduce risk, especially on longer or less maintained trails.
Recommended essentials include:
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Navigation tools such as a map, GPS, or downloaded trail directions
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Sun protection, including sunscreen and a hat
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Extra layers, especially for shaded or higher-elevation trails
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A flashlight or headlamp in case hikes take longer than planned
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A basic first aid kit
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Extra food and water beyond what you expect to use
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A small emergency shelter or space blanket
Trail Etiquette Around Waterfalls
Waterfall trails are often busy, narrow, and slippery, especially near viewing areas. Following basic trail etiquette helps protect both visitors and the environment.
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Uphill hikers generally have the right of way
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Step aside carefully when yielding and avoid damaging plants
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Stay on designated trails and viewing areas
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Do not climb on rocks near waterfalls
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Keep noise levels low to respect wildlife and other hikers
Water Safety Near Waterfalls
Waterfalls can be far more dangerous than they appear. Fast currents, slick rocks, and sudden drop-offs are common in the Smokies.
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Swimming near waterfalls is strongly discouraged
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Wet rocks are extremely slippery and unstable
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Currents can be stronger than they look, even in shallow water
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Always observe posted warning signs
Fire & Environmental Safety
Wildfire risk is a serious concern in the Smoky Mountains, especially during dry conditions. Visitors play a key role in protecting the park.
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Follow all fire restrictions and burn bans
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Only use grills or campfires where permitted
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Fully extinguish fires and coals before leaving
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Never discard cigarettes or matches on the ground
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Avoid parking on dry grass or vegetation
Where to Stay Near Smoky Mountain Waterfall Trails
Staying close to Smoky Mountain waterfall trails makes it easier to plan early starts, reduce drive time, and visit multiple waterfalls in a single day. Cabins near Gatlinburg and key park entrances offer convenient access to both hike-in and roadside waterfalls, making them a practical base for exploring the area.
