The Great Smoky Mountains of Tennessee harbor some of the most spectacular waterfalls in the Eastern United States. From roadside cascades to backcountry gems requiring miles of hiking, here’s your guide to the Smokies’ finest falls.
Why the Smokies Are Waterfall Paradise
The Great Smoky Mountains receive an astounding 85 inches of rainfall annually at higher elevations—more than almost anywhere else in the continental United States. This abundance of precipitation, combined with the ancient mountains’ countless streams and dramatic elevation changes, creates perfect conditions for waterfall formation. The park contains over 2,100 miles of streams and hundreds of waterfalls, ranging from gentle cascades to thundering plunges.
The Must-See Falls
Laurel Falls
Height: 80 feet
Trail Distance: 2.6 miles round trip
Difficulty: Moderate
Laurel Falls is the most popular waterfall hike in the Smokies, and for good reason. The paved trail makes it accessible to hikers of all abilities, while the falls themselves deliver a stunning two-tiered drop through a natural rock amphitheater. The upper and lower sections are connected by a footbridge that provides an intimate view of the cascade.
Pro tip: Arrive early—before 8 AM—to avoid crowds and snag parking. The lot fills quickly on weekends, and the trail can feel like a highway by midday.
Ramsey Cascades
Height: 100 feet
Trail Distance: 8 miles round trip
Difficulty: Strenuous
The tallest waterfall in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Ramsey Cascades is worth every step of the challenging approach. The trail follows the Middle Prong of the Little Pigeon River through an old-growth forest with tulip poplars and Eastern hemlocks that predate European settlement. The final mile climbs steeply over roots and rocks before revealing the magnificent cascade tumbling down a series of rocky ledges.
This is a full-day commitment. Bring plenty of water, snacks, and start early to allow time to enjoy the falls before the return journey.
Grotto Falls
Height: 25 feet
Trail Distance: 2.6 miles round trip
Difficulty: Moderate
Grotto Falls offers something unique—you can walk behind the waterfall. The trail passes through a beautiful hardwood forest and crosses several small streams before arriving at the falls, where Roaring Fork spills over a rock overhang into a shallow pool. Standing in the grotto behind the curtain of water is a magical experience, especially on hot summer days when the mist provides welcome relief.
The trail is part of the Trillium Gap Trail, which continues to the summit of Mount LeConte. Keep an eye out for the llama pack train that supplies LeConte Lodge—they use this trail regularly.
Rainbow Falls
Height: 80 feet
Trail Distance: 5.4 miles round trip
Difficulty: Strenuous
Named for the rainbows that appear in its mist on sunny afternoons, Rainbow Falls is one of the park’s most photogenic cascades. LeConte Creek makes a single dramatic plunge over a rock ledge, creating a towering column of water that’s especially impressive after heavy rains.
The trail gains over 1,500 feet in elevation, making it a workout. But the reward is one of the most scenic waterfalls in Tennessee. Time your visit for early afternoon to catch the rainbow effect—bring a polarizing filter for photography.
Abrams Falls
Height: 20 feet
Trail Distance: 5 miles round trip
Difficulty: Moderate
Don’t let the modest height fool you—Abrams Falls is one of the most powerful waterfalls in the park. The volume of water pouring over the falls creates a thundering roar and a massive pool below. The hike through Cades Cove offers glimpses of historic homesteads and excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.
Important safety note: The pool below Abrams Falls is extremely dangerous. The churning water creates powerful undercurrents that have claimed numerous lives. Admire from a safe distance—no swimming.
Hen Wallow Falls
Height: 90 feet
Trail Distance: 4.4 miles round trip
Difficulty: Moderate
Located in the quieter Cosby section of the park, Hen Wallow Falls sees far fewer visitors than its western counterparts. The narrow cascade spreads to 20 feet wide at its base during high water, creating a delicate fan effect against the dark rock face. The trail passes through a rich cove hardwood forest with impressive wildflower displays in spring.
Hidden Gems Worth Seeking
Place of a Thousand Drips
This isn’t a single waterfall but a section of the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail where water seeps from the hillside across a wide rock face, creating hundreds of tiny cascades. After heavy rains, the entire rock wall comes alive with flowing water. It’s accessible without hiking—simply pull off at the designated area and walk a few yards.
Meigs Falls
Visible from the road along Little River Road, Meigs Falls drops 35 feet in a secluded cove. There’s no official trail, and the park discourages attempts to reach the base due to the scramble involved. But the roadside view is impressive, and it’s an easy stop while driving through the park.
Spruce Flats Falls
Trail Distance: 1 mile round trip
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
This lesser-known waterfall near Tremont tumbles 40 feet into a beautiful pool. The short trail follows an old logging road, making it an easier hike than many park waterfalls. It’s particularly beautiful in autumn when the surrounding forest blazes with color.
Best Times to Visit
Spring (March-May)
- Waterfalls at peak flow from snowmelt and spring rains
- Wildflower season in the Smokies is legendary
- Crowds building but manageable on weekdays
- Unpredictable weather—be prepared for anything
Summer (June-August)
- Peak tourist season means crowded trails and full parking lots
- Afternoon thunderstorms are common
- Water levels drop but falls remain scenic
- Early morning starts essential to beat crowds
Fall (September-November)
- Spectacular foliage, especially October
- Decreasing water flow but still beautiful
- Lower humidity makes hiking more pleasant
- Leaf-peeper crowds can rival summer
Winter (December-February)
- Solitude on the trails
- Potential for frozen or partially frozen falls
- Some roads closed due to weather
- Shorter days require careful planning
Planning Your Waterfall Adventure
Where to Stay
Gatlinburg: The primary gateway to the park with abundant lodging, dining, and tourist attractions. Can be crowded and kitschy but convenient.
Townsend: The “peaceful side of the Smokies” offers a quieter alternative with easy access to Cades Cove and the Tremont area.
Camping: The park offers several frontcountry campgrounds. Elkmont and Cades Cove are popular choices near waterfall trails. Reserve well in advance for peak season.
Getting There
- Laurel Falls and Rainbow Falls: Access from Gatlinburg via the Sugarlands Visitor Center
- Ramsey Cascades: Greenbrier entrance east of Gatlinburg
- Grotto Falls: Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail (one-way, closed in winter)
- Abrams Falls: Cades Cove Loop Road
- Hen Wallow Falls: Cosby Campground area
Essential Tips
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Arrive early: Parking lots fill quickly, especially on weekends. Aim to be at the trailhead by 7 AM in peak season.
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Check conditions: Call the park’s recorded information line or stop at a visitor center for current trail status.
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Wear appropriate footwear: Rocky trails and stream crossings demand sturdy hiking boots with good traction.
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Bring rain gear: Afternoon showers are common, and trails near waterfalls are often misty.
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Pack the essentials: Water, snacks, first aid kit, headlamp, and map—cell service is unreliable in the park.
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Respect the resource: Stay on designated trails, don’t climb on waterfalls, and pack out all trash.
Safety Considerations
The Smokies’ waterfalls are beautiful but demand respect:
- Slippery rocks: Near waterfalls, every surface is potentially slick. Move carefully and use trekking poles.
- Swift water: Never attempt to cross streams above waterfalls. The consequences of a slip are severe.
- No swimming at base of falls: Undercurrents and submerged hazards make pools below waterfalls extremely dangerous.
- Flash floods: Heavy rains can cause rapid water level rises. Monitor weather and be prepared to turn back.
A Lifetime of Exploration
Even frequent visitors to the Smokies discover new waterfalls on every trip. Beyond the well-known cascades lie dozens of unnamed falls hidden in the backcountry, waiting for those willing to explore. The park’s extensive trail system offers endless opportunities for waterfall hunting.
Whether you’re seeking the thundering power of Ramsey Cascades, the ethereal beauty of walking behind Grotto Falls, or the peaceful solitude of lesser-known gems, the Great Smoky Mountains deliver waterfall experiences unlike anywhere else in the Southeast.
The ancient mountains have been sculpting these cascades for millions of years. Take your time, tread carefully, and let the magic of falling water work its spell on you.
Happy trails, and may your boots stay (mostly) dry!