GSMNP Waterfalls

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is home to numerous waterfalls, each with its unique charm. These waterfalls vary in size, accessibility, and surrounding landscape, but all offer the tranquil beauty that only nature can provide.

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Here are some of the top waterfall locations within the park:

Laurel Falls: One of the most accessible waterfalls in the park, this 80-foot high cascade can be reached via a 2.3-mile round-trip, paved trail, making it suitable for families with kids or those looking for an easier hike.
Abrams Falls: Located in Cades Cove, this 20-foot waterfall might not be the tallest, but it has a large volume, creating a powerful and picturesque scene. The trail to Abrams Falls is a moderate 5-mile round trip.
Grotto Falls: The 2.6-mile round-trip hike along the Trillium Gap Trail will lead you behind this 25-foot waterfall, offering a unique perspective. It’s especially popular in the warmer months.
Rainbow Falls: A 5.4-mile round trip will take you to the park’s highest single-drop waterfall. If you visit during the afternoon on a sunny day, you might witness a rainbow produced by the mist, hence its name.
Ramsey Cascades: The tallest waterfall in the park, Ramsey Cascades tumbles down 100 feet over rock outcroppings and is surrounded by old-growth forest. The hike is strenuous, covering 8 miles round trip, but it’s well worth the effort.
Hen Wallow Falls: Located off the Gabes Mountain Trail, this 90-foot waterfall is a 4.4-mile round-trip hike. The falls are narrow at the top, fanning out as they cascade down.
Mouse Creek Falls: Accessed via the Big Creek Trail, this waterfall is a 4-mile round-trip hike. It’s not the largest waterfall in the park, but the surrounding scenery is serene and captivating.
Indian Creek Falls: Located near Deep Creek, this is a 45-foot waterfall that’s reached via a relatively easy 2-mile round-trip hike. You can also extend the hike to see Toms Branch Falls and Juney Whank Falls in the same area.
Mingo Falls: Just outside the park’s boundary near Cherokee, NC, Mingo Falls is an impressive 120-foot waterfall. The hike is short but involves a steep set of stairs.
Place of a Thousand Drips: This waterfall can be seen during wet periods from the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail. It’s unique due to its many small cascades and channels caused by the erosion of the rock.

When exploring waterfalls:

Always exercise caution. Rocks around waterfalls can be slippery.
It’s generally unsafe (and often illegal) to climb on or around waterfalls.
Some trails can be strenuous, so make sure you’re prepared with proper footwear, water, and snacks.
Remember to practice Leave No Trace principles to protect these natural wonders for future generations.

Each waterfall in the Smokies has its unique characteristics, making every visit a memorable experience.