The Smoky Mountains are well known for their natural beauty, and for good reason! Visitors to the area have the chance to see some of the most picturesque views that nature has to offer, from mountain overlooks to dense forests and more. And of course, you can’t forget about the amazing Smoky Mountain waterfalls. Given the geography of the Smokies, there are lots of gorgeous waterfalls throughout the area that you can visit. Here are some of the Smoky Mountain waterfalls you are sure to love visiting:
1. Laurel Falls
One of the most popular Smoky Mountain waterfalls, Laurel Falls is an 80-foot waterfall with two tiers. There is a footbridge that crosses the waterfall, which presents a great opportunity to take a picture! In order to access Laurel Falls, simply hike along Laurel Falls Trail and complete the 2.6-mile round trip. Keep in mind, however, that as one of the most popular waterfalls in the area, parking is sometimes a challenge, so try to arrive early if possible! Additionally, there is a small fee to park within Great Smoky Mountains National Park and parking tags can be purchased online or at any visitor center.
2. Rainbow Falls
Named after the vivid rainbow that forms in the waterfall’s mist on sunny days, Rainbow Falls is another of the 80-foot Smoky Mountain waterfalls that visitors love. The hike to Rainbow Falls is a bit longer than Laurel Falls, as Rainbow Falls Trail is a 5.4-mile round trip. Keep in mind that there is some elevation change along this trail, so it is advised that visitors wear hiking shoes.
3. Abrams Falls
The shortest waterfall on this list at only 20 feet, Abrams Falls makes up for its lack of height by having the largest rushing volume of water of all the Smoky Mountain waterfalls. To access the waterfall, visitors can hike the 5-mile round trip Alum Falls Trail that begins in Cades Cove and passes through a scenic forest setting. Keep in mind that the trail to this waterfall passes over several narrow log bridges, so wear sturdy shoes when you follow this trail!
4. Grotto Falls
Grotto Falls is another of the Smoky Mountain waterfalls that visitors love, because you can actually go behind it! The Trillium Gap Trail is a 2.6-mile round trip and takes visitors behind this 25-foot waterfall. This is also a great spot for seeing some of the salamanders that call the Smoky Mountains home! If you want to see a waterfall from a different perspective, Grotto Falls is an excellent choice.
5. Ramsey Cascades
The tallest of all the Smoky Mountain waterfalls, Ramsey Cascades is a 100-foot waterfall that collects in a pool at its base. The hike to Ramsey Cascades and back is an 8-mile round trip with changes in elevation, so make sure to wear proper hiking shoes. Not only will you get to see the stunning waterfall itself, you will also pass through sections of old-growth forest that make this hike interesting!
When you visit some of these stunning Smoky Mountain waterfalls, you will be captivated by the natural beauty and form memories that you can take with you forever. In order to take full advantage of everything that the Smokies have to offer, go ahead and reserve your accommodations here at our Gatlinburg hotel and get ready for adventure here in the mountains!
