Chasing waterfalls? Here's a list of the best waterfalls in the Smokies

  • Posted on

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Tennessee is known for its stunning natural beauty, with breathtaking waterfalls being one of its major attractions. From roaring cascades to tranquil streams, these waterfalls offer a peaceful escape and a chance to reconnect with nature. In this blog post, we will explore the best waterfalls in the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee.

  1. Abrams Falls:
Abrams Falls is one of the most popular waterfalls in the park, known for its picturesque beauty and the serene pool at the bottom. The waterfall cascades down a 20-foot drop into a wide pool, surrounded by lush greenery and towering trees. It is a moderate hike to reach the falls, with a round-trip distance of 5 miles, but the journey is well worth the effort.

Directions: From the Cades Cove Loop Road, turn onto the Abrams Creek Trail. Follow the trail for 2.5 miles to reach Abrams Falls.

  1. Laurel Falls:
Laurel Falls is a gorgeous waterfall that offers both beauty and accessibility. It is one of the most popular waterfalls in the park, attracting thousands of visitors each year. The waterfall has two sections, with the upper falls cascading down 30 feet and the lower falls dropping 20 feet. The trail leading to the waterfall is paved, making it accessible for strollers and wheelchairs.
Directions: From the Sugarlands Visitor Center, drive for 3.5 miles on Little River Road to reach the Laurel Falls Trailhead.
  1. Rainbow Falls:
Rainbow Falls is a stunning waterfall that cascades down a 80-foot drop, making it one of the tallest waterfalls in the park. The waterfall is named for the rainbow that often forms in the mist that rises from the pool at the bottom. The trail leading to the falls is steep and rocky, making it a challenging hike, but the views are worth it.

Directions: From the Sugarlands Visitor Center, drive for 8.5 miles on Cherokee Orchard Road to reach the Rainbow Falls Trailhead.

  1. Grotto Falls:
Grotto Falls is a unique waterfall that offers visitors the opportunity to walk behind the cascading water. The trail leading to the waterfall is a moderate hike, with a round-trip distance of 2.6 miles. The waterfall drops 25 feet, and the path behind the waterfall offers a unique perspective and a chance to cool off on a hot day.

Directions: From the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, turn onto the Trillium Gap Trail. Follow the trail for 1.3 miles to reach Grotto Falls.

  1. Hen Wallow Falls:
Hen Wallow Falls is a hidden gem in the Smoky Mountains, located in a remote part of the park. The waterfall drops 90 feet, making it one of the tallest waterfalls in the park. The trail leading to the waterfall is a moderate hike, with a round-trip distance of 4.4 miles.

Directions: From the Cosby Campground, take the Gabes Mountain Trail. Follow the trail for 2.1 miles to reach the Hen Wallow Falls Trail.

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Tennessee is home to some of the most beautiful waterfalls in the country. From the roaring cascades of Rainbow Falls to the tranquil pools of Abrams Falls, these waterfalls offer visitors a chance to reconnect with nature and experience the beauty of the Smoky Mountains. Whether you are an experienced hiker or a casual nature lover, there is a waterfall in the Smoky Mountains that will take your breath away.