Experience Nature’s Beauty
Exploring the Stunning Waterfalls of the Great Smoky Mountains
The Great Smoky Mountains are renowned for their abundance of stunning waterfalls, which have become some of the most sought-after hiking spots in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. With their captivating beauty and the almost enchanting effect they have on visitors, it’s easy to understand their popularity. In this article, we’ll highlight seven of the top waterfall hikes within the Smokies. But first, let’s cover some essential information about the waterfalls in this incredible region.
The Alluring Waterfalls of the Smokies
The plethora of breathtaking cascades in the area can be attributed to several key factors. Firstly, the Great Smokies feature rugged terrain that causes streams to traverse steep inclines, creating a characteristic tumbling and rushing quality to the water. Additionally, the region is not only steep but also high-reaching, representing the largest expanse of elevated land in the Southern Appalachians. This significant elevation captures a considerable amount of rainfall from passing weather systems, particularly wet air masses from the Gulf of Mexico, leading to an annual precipitation of 90 inches or more — a substantial source of water that flows downhill with gravity’s force. Lastly, the varied, mainly sedimentary geology of the Smoky Mountains consists of rocks with differing susceptibilities to erosion. As the softer layers wear away, more resistant formations, especially sandstone types like Thunderhead Sandstone, remain, causing streams to cascade or plunge over the cliffs.
Now, let’s dive into our selections for the finest waterfall hikes in the Great Smoky Mountains, listed in no specific order:
Abrams Falls
This 5.2-mile out-and-back trail, rated as moderately challenging, leads hikers from Cades Cove to a powerful waterfall on Abrams Creek. As the largest stream entirely within the park, Abram Falls is notable not for its height—approximately 20 feet—but for its impressive water volume cascading over a sandstone ledge, creating a breathtaking view, accompanied by a deep plunge pool below.
The name of the waterfall honors a Cherokee leader named Chief Oskuah, who was also called “Abram.”
Laurel Falls
Often regarded as the park’s most popular trail, this 2.3-mile round-trip hike takes visitors to perhaps the most famous waterfall in the Smokies. At Laurel Falls, the Laurel Branch cascades 80 feet in two stunning sections as it flows southward off the ridge separating Cove Mountain from Harrison Mountain into the Little River.
This trail is paved, albeit somewhat rough in places, making it an easy walk that can be completed in an hour or two, with a charming viewpoint over the stream nestled between the waterfall’s upper and lower segments.
Rainbow Falls
Rainbow Falls holds the title of the tallest single-drop waterfall in the national park, plunging 80 feet down LeConte Creek, located on the northern slopes of Mount LeConte. The moderately strenuous, 5.4-mile round-trip Rainbow Falls Trail features a series of switchbacks that lead to this stunning cascade over Thunderhead Sandstone, which is famous for the rainbows that often appear in the mist on sunny days.
While reaching Rainbow Falls is a rewarding destination, those with enough energy can continue along the trail to reach the summit of Mount LeConte, standing at 6,593 feet, making it the third-highest peak in the park.
Grotto Falls
This easy 2.6-mile there-and-back hike along the Trillium Gap Trail, accessible from the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail near Gatlinburg, brings visitors to the enchanting Grotto Falls. One of the unique features of this waterfall, approximately 25 feet high, is the opportunity to walk behind its shimmering cascade, thanks to a spacious alcove formed beneath its overhanging lip.
The path to the falls is delightful, winding through a cool, shaded environment rich with a lush hemlock-hardwood forest, including many ancient trees.
Ramsey Cascades
As the most challenging hike on this list, Ramsey Cascades is also the tallest waterfall in the park, measuring 100 feet in height with its step-like structure. Reaching this spectacular site requires an eight-mile round-trip trek in the Greenbrier area, with an elevation gain of more than 2,000 feet.
The breathtaking sight of Ramsey Cascades, located in a remote canyon alongside the Ramsey Prong of the Little Pigeon River, is unforgettable, nestled between the stunning ridges of Pinnacle Lead and Guyot Spur, which both lead to some of the Smokies’ highest peaks.
Hen Wallow Falls
Another prominent waterfall in the park, Hen Wallow Falls, features a striking 90-foot horsetail fan on the Lower Falling Branch of Hen Wallow Creek. Although it has a narrow width at the top, it broadens out to approximately 20 feet as it cascades down. Trekkers can reach this waterfall via the Gabes Mountain Trail, which presents a moderate, 4.4-mile round.
Plan Your Visit
When planning your visit to these enchanting waterfall hikes, be sure to wear appropriate hiking gear and bring plenty of water and snacks. The weather can change quickly in the mountains, so layer up to stay comfortable as you explore. Of course, don’t forget your camera; capturing the beauty of these waterfalls will leave you with lasting memories of your adventure in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park.