It is well-known that the Smoky Mountains offer some of the most beautiful natural sights that you can find anywhere, which is a big part of why the area draws lots of visitors each year! If you are looking to take a vacation that will allow you to discover gorgeous sights and immerse yourself in nature, then the Smoky Mountains are waiting for you. Today, we thought we would share some of the places that you can visit to see this natural beauty for yourself, with some of the top Smoky Mountain waterfalls that you can check out! From the tallest waterfall in the Smokies, to a waterfall that creates an amazing visual effect, and more, here are some of the top Smoky Mountain waterfalls you can see when you visit:
1. Abrams Falls
First up, we have Abrams Falls, which you can access by hiking the Abrams Falls Trail that starts along the Cades Cove Loop Road. The hike is a 5-mile round trip and runs along Abrams Creek, which offers pleasant views on your way to the waterfall. Abrams Falls itself is only 20-feet tall, but has the greatest volume of any waterfall at Great Smoky Mountains National Park, more than making up for its lack of height.
2. Ramsey Cascades
Next up, we have the tallest of all the Smoky Mountain waterfalls — Ramsey Cascades! The hike to Ramsey Cascades is considered relatively strenuous, given the 8-mile round trip length and over 2,000 feet of elevation gain along the trail, but those who choose to take on this challenging hike will be rewarded with stunning views of the waterfall, which stands at over 100 feet tall. Make sure to wear good hiking shoes and bring plenty of drinking water if you choose to embark on this hike!
3. Rainbow Falls
Rainbow Falls is among the more popular Smoky Mountain waterfalls, as it produces a unique visual effect that inspired its name. If you visit during a sunny afternoon, you may be able to see the rainbow effect that is created by the water and sunlight! The round-trip hike to Rainbow Falls is 5.4 miles and is considered moderately difficult.
4. Grotto Falls
If you are looking for an easier hike that will still allow you to see a beautiful Smoky Mountain waterfall, then the Grotto Falls Trail is a great option. This 2.6-mile round trip has minimal elevation gain and is considered relatively easy in difficulty. Once you reach the waterfall itself, you will be rewarded with the opportunity to go behind the waterfall itself! Grotto Falls is the only place at Great Smoky Mountains National Park where visitors are permitted to go behind a waterfall, so this can be a unique and fun addition to your trip.
5. Cataract Falls
Last, but certainly not least, we have one of the easiest waterfalls to reach in the Smoky Mountains! Cataract Falls is accessible via the Cataract Falls Trail, which is only a 1.1-mile round trip with very little elevation gain. Along this path, you will find a footbridge, a hollow tree, and other interesting sights, as well as the 25-foot Cataract Falls!
Now that you know more about some of the top Smoky Mountain waterfalls that you can see when you come to visit the area, you can probably see why people love coming to the Smokies to spend time enjoying nature’s beauty. Plus, when you choose to stay with us, you can also book a Smoky Mountain cabin with mountain views, so that you can soak in the beauty 24/7! We look forward to welcoming you.
