When you visit the Smoky Mountains, you will be able to see tons of gorgeous natural sights here in the area. Some of the most stunning views around can be found at the Smoky Mountains waterfalls, such as Rainbow Falls and Ramsey Cascades. If you want to check out some of the best Smoky Mountains waterfalls, here are some spots you will enjoy:
1. Abrams Falls
Although it is not one of the taller Smoky Mountains waterfalls, Abrams Falls is among the most voluminous of any of the falls in the area. The 20-foot waterfall has a large pool at its base, where significant amounts of water collect. The hike to this waterfall is Abrams Falls Trail in Cades Cove, which is considered a moderately difficult route and is a 5-mile roundtrip.
2. Grotto Falls
Grotto Falls is unique among Smoky Mountains waterfalls, as you can actually walk behind the waterfall itself and see it from the back! This is an excellent place for spotting salamanders, as they like to spend time in the cool, moist areas behind the waterfall. To access Grotto Falls, simply follow Trillium Gap Trail from the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail. The hike is about 2.6 miles to the waterfall and back and is considered moderately difficult.
3. Laurel Falls
One of the most popular Smoky Mountains waterfalls, Laurel Falls is 80 feet tall and is surrounded by mountain laurel shrubs, which give the falls their name. You can access Laurel Falls by hiking a 2.3-mile roundtrip from the parking area on Little River Road along the Laurel Falls Trail. Keep in mind that since Laurel Falls are extremely popular, parking is sometimes limited, so try to arrive early! If you are planning to visit during a busy time, you can also consider visiting one of the other waterfalls on this list.
4. Rainbow Falls
Another of the popular Smoky Mountains waterfalls that you may want to check out, Rainbow Falls feature a gorgeous rainbow effect on sunny afternoons, which has given these falls their name. To reach the 80-foot waterfall, simply utilize the parking area by the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail and hike the 2.7 miles to the falls. The roundtrip distance is 5.4 miles and is generally considered moderately difficult.
5. Ramsey Cascades
Last, but certainly not least, Ramsey Cascades is the tallest waterfall in the Smoky Mountains, standing at 100 feet tall! To access this stunning waterfall, you will want to hike along the Ramsey Cascades Trail in the Greenbrier area of the park. The roundtrip is 8 miles and the hike is considered strenuous, so make sure to wear sturdy shoes and carry drinking water with you. Additionally, exercise extreme caution around the waterfall and do not climb on the rocks!
These are just some of the many Smoky Mountains waterfalls that you will have the chance to visit when you come to this beautiful area. All of these spots offer stunning views, great exercise, and plenty of adventure. And if you want to find out about even more waterfalls, check out some of these hidden waterfalls near Pigeon Forge!
