Hiking & Waterfalls in the Smoky Mountains
Explore the Trails & Waterfalls of the Smokies
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers hundreds of miles of trails, ranging from easy walks through the forest to strenuous mountain climbs. Along the way, hikers can discover cascading waterfalls, rushing mountain streams, historic areas, panoramic viewpoints, and quiet sections of the park.
Whether you're looking for a short family-friendly walk or a challenging day hike, there's a trail to match your experience and interests.
Iconic Waterfall Hikes
Laurel Falls
Laurel Falls is one of the most well-known waterfall hikes in the Smokies. The paved trail leads to an approximately 80-foot waterfall surrounded by forest and mountain scenery.
Although the trail is paved, it is uneven and includes elevation changes, so it is important to consider the trail conditions and your group's mobility before visiting.
Grotto Falls
Located along the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, Grotto Falls is one of the park's most distinctive waterfall hikes. The trail leads through a mature forest to a waterfall where the trail passes behind the falling water.
The cool mist around the falls makes this a particularly memorable hike during warmer weather.
Abrams Falls
Located in the Cades Cove area, Abrams Falls is known for its impressive volume of water rather than its height. The approximately 5-mile round-trip trail winds through the forest before reaching the waterfall and its surrounding pool.
The water around the falls can be dangerous, so visitors should stay away from slippery rocks and fast-moving water.
Ramsey Cascades
For experienced hikers looking for a longer challenge, Ramsey Cascades is an approximately 8-mile round-trip hike through an old-growth forest.
The trail climbs steadily toward the park's tallest waterfall, where water flows over a series of rock formations before reaching the base of the cascades.
Hidden Gems & Shorter Waterfall Walks
Cataract Falls
Near Sugarlands Visitor Center, Cataract Falls offers a relatively short forest walk to a small waterfall. Its convenient location makes it an option for visitors who want to add a quick nature experience to a day of sightseeing.
Spruce Flats Falls
Located in the Tremont area, Spruce Flats Falls provides a quieter waterfall experience away from some of the park's busiest trails.
The hike is relatively short but includes uneven and sometimes steep sections, making sturdy footwear especially useful.
Meigs Falls
You don't always have to hike several miles to see a Smoky Mountain waterfall. Meigs Falls can be viewed from an area along Little River Road, making it an easy addition to a scenic drive through the park.
Deep Creek Waterfalls
On the North Carolina side of the park, the Deep Creek area offers a popular waterfall loop featuring Tom Branch Falls, Indian Creek Falls, and Juney Whank Falls.
Seeing multiple waterfalls on one hike makes this area an appealing option for visitors who want to maximize their time on the trail.
Panoramic Views & High-Elevation Hikes
Not every memorable Smoky Mountain hike ends at a waterfall. Several trails climb into the higher elevations, where changing forests, rocky ridges, and expansive mountain views become part of the experience.
Alum Cave Trail
The trail to Alum Cave Bluffs is one of the park's most popular hikes. Along the way, hikers encounter geological features including Arch Rock before reaching the large concave rock formation known as Alum Cave Bluffs. Those continuing beyond the bluffs toward Mount Le Conte should be prepared for a much longer and more strenuous hike.
Charlies Bunion
Following the Appalachian Trail from the Newfound Gap area, Charlies Bunion leads hikers through high-elevation forest and along mountain ridges to a dramatic rocky overlook. The hike offers expansive views and can be particularly beautiful on clear days, but changing weather and elevation make preparation important.
Chimney Tops
Chimney Tops Trail is a relatively short but strenuous climb. The steep ascent makes this trail more demanding than its mileage might suggest. A viewing area near the top provides impressive mountain scenery, making the difficult climb worthwhile for prepared hikers.
Lesser-Known Waterfall Adventures
Hen Wallow Falls
The trail to Hen Wallow Falls passes through a forested section of the park before reaching a tall, narrow waterfall that widens as it descends.
The trail's moderate length makes it a good option for hikers who want a waterfall destination without committing to one of the park's longest hikes.
Mouse Creek Falls
Located in the Big Creek area on the North Carolina side of the park, Mouse Creek Falls is reached by following the Big Creek Trail along the river.
The route also passes Midnight Hole, a scenic swimming hole known for its clear mountain water. Conditions can be hazardous, so visitors should use caution around rocks, currents, and changing water levels.
Baskins Creek Falls
Baskins Creek Falls offers a quieter waterfall experience near the Gatlinburg side of the park. The route includes a steep section near the waterfall, followed by the climb back out.
Good footwear and careful footing are especially important on this trail.
Essential Hiking Tips
Check Trail Conditions Before You Leave
Trail conditions can change with rain, storms, fallen trees, ice, and seasonal maintenance. Check current National Park Service information before heading out.
Be Prepared for Changing Weather
Weather in the Smokies can change quickly, particularly at higher elevations. Bring layers and be prepared for rain, wind, or cooler conditions.
Carry Enough Water
Bring plenty of drinking water for your hike. Do not assume that clear-looking streams are safe to drink without appropriate treatment.
Wear Appropriate Footwear
Many Smoky Mountain trails contain rocks, roots, mud, uneven surfaces, and steep sections. Hiking shoes or sturdy footwear with good traction can make a significant difference.
Know the Pet Rules
Pets are restricted on most park trails. The Gatlinburg Trail and Oconaluftee River Trail are the two park trails where leashed dogs are permitted.
Start With a Trail That Matches Your Group
Elevation gain, terrain, and weather can make a short hike difficult. If traveling with children or beginners, start with an easier trail.
Carry a Physical Map
Cell service is not reliable throughout the mountains. Download information before leaving your cabin and consider carrying a physical trail map.
Respect Wildlife
The Smokies are home to black bears, elk, deer, and more. Never approach, feed, or attempt to photograph wildlife from an unsafe distance.
Choosing the Right Smoky Mountain Hike
For an easier experience: Consider shorter trails such as Cataract Falls or other accessible nature walks.
For a waterfall adventure: Grotto Falls, Laurel Falls, Abrams Falls, and Deep Creek offer different waterfall experiences.
For mountain views: Alum Cave, Charlies Bunion, and Chimney Tops provide more challenging terrain and higher-elevation scenery.
For experienced hikers: Ramsey Cascades and longer backcountry routes require additional planning, conditioning, and preparation.
Make Hiking Part of Your Smoky Mountain Vacation
You don't have to be an experienced backpacker to enjoy the Smokies. A short waterfall walk, scenic nature trail, or overlook can become one of the most memorable parts of your vacation.
Choose a trail that fits your group's abilities, check current conditions before leaving, and give yourself plenty of time to enjoy the scenery along the way.
Explore More of the Smokies
Planning more than a hiking day? Explore our guides to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Scenic Drives, Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, Sevierville, Outdoor Activities, and more to build your complete Smoky Mountain itinerary.
Book a Cabin