Located in the Great Smoky Mountain, you will find glorious hiking trails and magnificent waterfalls that will awaken your mind. One place that many have traveled to is the Gatlinburg area, located in Tennessee, to see some of the most beautiful waterfalls the South has to offer.
Since I am a true waterfall junkie, I decided to compile a list of six different hiking spots and waterfalls near the Gatlinburg area. One thing to note when you are exploring these locations, the Great Smoky Mountains are known to be filled with Black bears. It is important to know these are wild animals and should never be approached. Please always use caution and be safe when visiting these locations.
1. Baskins Creek Falls: This is a stunning waterfall that is 40-feet tall and split into two sections. It is one of the biggest waterfalls located in the Smokies with a 3-mile round trip hike that is a bit harder than other suggestions located below. This is an off-the-beaten-path type of adventure, with steep climbs and incredible views. Try out this adventure if you are trying to avoid crowds.
2. Grotto Falls: Located on the Trillium Gap Trail, which can be accessed by car or by a hike from the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail. Hiking to the falls and back, is just a 2.6-mile hike. This famous waterfall offers visitors the chance to walk underneath a waterfall which is a great experience. The trail to the falls goes through a small grotto that’s been carved out by years of erosion and rockfalls.
3. Abrams Falls: With a moderate five-mile hiking trail, this is the largest volume waterfall located in the Smokies. The waterfall and creek are named for a Cherokee chief whose village once stood several miles downstream from the area. There is a large pool at the base of the 20-foot tall waterfall, however, do be cautious of the slippery rocks, strong currents, undertow, and highly rooted area. You can see additional water safety information here.
4. Laurel Falls: With an easy 2.6-mile hike to Laurel Falls, you will be about to see breathtaking geological formations and an 80-foot tall waterfall. There are bridges to cross, streams to explore, and takes about two hours to complete there and back. The waterfall consists of an upper and a lower section, divided by a walkway that crosses the stream at the base of the upper falls.
5. The Sinks: Located along Little River Road 12-miles from Sugarlands Visitors Center, The Sinks is a must-see in the Great Smoky Mountains. The Sinks is a perfect spot for swimming as there is a deep pool naturally created and is surrounded by big boulders. The waterfall is only 18ft tall, but it truly is a stunning sight to see. You do not have to hike to this location, but rather enjoy a simple walk through the woods.
6. Rainbow Falls: Known for the beautiful colors created by the light passing through this waterfall’s mist, this is an 80-foot waterfall with a roundtrip 5.4-mile hike. This beautiful Smoky Mountain waterfall is mesmerizing and a perfect place to take a day trip in nature.
Remember, adventure is everywhere, you just have to find it. These six waterfalls are truly an incredible part of our world and I hope you find exploring them as joyous as I do.
With Love,
Lex Paige
