Smoky Mountain Waterfalls
A waterfall in the Smokies. Photo by Marty Colburn.
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers gorgeous views of several pristine waterfalls, including the breathtaking Weeping Falls. Located within the vast expanse of the park, the Smokies boast of a diverse range of waterfalls that are a must-visit for every nature enthusiast. One can easily find these waterfalls on a Smoky Mountain waterfalls map available at the park’s entrance or various visitor centers.
Usually located right off a trail, the waterfalls are one of the main reasons people visit the park. Many Smoky Mountain falls can be driven up to, while others might require a short walk. For the more adventurous, some waterfalls can be found in the backcountry, miles from the nearest road. Great Smoky Mountain waterfall hikes offer a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the beauty of nature.
The many mountain ridgelines dictate the spring’s flow of cool mountain water; therefore, most waterfalls and large streams are located within the valleys of the park. One such gem is Grotto Falls, accessible via the Trillium Gap Trail. The Rainbow Falls and Rainbow Falls Trail are other remarkable spots you shouldn’t miss.
Trail Difficulty is based on the terrain and length of the trail from trailhead to the waterfall. For those looking for a relatively easy trek, the best waterfalls in the Smoky Mountains include Laurel Falls, which is one of the easy waterfall hikes Smoky Mountains offer.
The following are used to rate the terrain:
- Easy – Perfect for beginners, and ideal for those wanting to explore Pigeon Forge waterfalls.
- Moderate – Beginner level trail with uphill and downhill slopes less than 2.5 miles. Deep Creek Trail is a good example.
- Average – Trails like Baskins Creek Falls fall under this category. They are less than five miles long and usually take up half a day.
- Expert – These trails, often leading to remote spots, have many obstacles and can take a full day or more to hike.
- Strenuous – A very challenging path, including climbing a mountain, crossing streams with no bridges, steep ledges, vertical climbs, and steep down-hills. Mostly multi-day trips.
The following are used to rate the trail time:
- Hourly – Short trails that can be completed quickly, often leading to picturesque spots.
- Half Day – Perfect for those looking to spend some time in nature without committing to a long hike.
- Full Day – Meant for the truly adventurous souls.
- Multi Day – Recommended for those looking to camp out and truly experience the wilderness of the Smokies.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a novice, the Smoky Mountains have a trail and a waterfall waiting for you. Don’t forget to grab a map and set out on an adventure to discover the hidden beauty of the region!