Top 5 Waterfalls around Gatlinburg
Best waterfalls around Gatlinburg are found within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, a region characterized by its diverse natural landscape. This area features numerous waterfalls, ranging from easily accessible cascades to those requiring challenging treks. The varied terrain provides opportunities to experience different types of waterfall formations.
Best waterfalls around Gatlinburg
- The most popular waterfalls is Laurel Falls, a waterfall that is an 80-foot, multi-tiered waterfall. Its paved trail makes it suitable for families.
- Another must-see spot is…
Last updated: May 31, 2026
Laurel Falls
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Grotto Falls
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Cataract Falls
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Rainbow Falls
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Baskins Creek Falls
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Popular around Gatlinburg
Tips from the Community
Baskins Creek Falls is a lesser known waterfall in the Smokey Mountains. It is a 40-foot, two-tiered waterfall set in the forest.
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Make sure you pack water & possibly a snack. Brother was getting bit by insects, so bug spray would be good. Walking stick for leverage. A good camera. A supportive backpack to carry your items. A small towel for if you decide to go into the falls a bit.
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The falls thank their name to the rainbow forming in the mist of the waterfall during sunny afternoons. In wintertime, you'll find incredible ice formations around the falls.
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Chic little waterfall not far from the Sugarland Visitor Center. He showed us his icy side in wintry temperatures in the twilight.
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Grotto Falls, a roughly 25-foot waterfall, is said to be one of the most unique views in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It is special, because you can walk behind its sheet of water thanks to an ample alcove beneath the overhanging lip. It's an easy 2.6-mile out-and-back hike.
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The Cataract Falls is an easy to reach waterfall. It is comprised of two low-flow streams totaling a 25-foot (8 m) drop into a small pool below. The waterfall is said to be impressive after periods of rain.
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Laurel Falls are certainly amongst the most popular hikes in GSMNP. The falls are beautiful (depending on their volume) and fairly easy to reach. It’s an out-and-back-trail with only about 2.5 mi and 400 ft elevation gain. The trail conditions and the terrain are easier to manage than most of the other trails in the park - but even on paved paths I personally prefer and recommend sturdier than flipflops (which you can see fairly often on this trail) because maybe you want to explore the falls a bit. The trailhead is located at Little River Gorge Road only 5 mi away from the Sugarlands Visitor Center and is one of the most recommended trails from the NP staff which results in many people on the trail and many, many cars at the trailhead. Especially popular is this trail amongst families with children. I personally would visit Laurel Falls only early in the morning (when most people are still busy with breakfast) or in the late afternoon/early evening (dinner ;).
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Small waterfall right on the trail
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which waterfalls around Gatlinburg are best for families with young children?
For families, Cataract Falls is an excellent choice. It's a smaller, 'kid-sized' waterfall with a short and easy 0.75-mile hike near the Sugarlands Visitor Center. Another option is Juney Whank Falls, which offers a relatively short 0.8-mile round trip to an 80-foot waterfall.
Are there any waterfalls where I can walk behind the water?
Yes, Grotto Falls is the only waterfall in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park where you can walk directly behind the cascading water. The 2.6-mile round-trip trail is considered moderate and passes through a dense hemlock forest.
What is the best time of year to visit the waterfalls in Gatlinburg?
Waterfalls are beautiful year-round. Spring brings increased water flow from snowmelt and rain, making them particularly powerful. Summer offers a refreshing escape from the heat, and autumn provides stunning foliage backdrops. In winter, some falls like Hen Wallow Falls can freeze into impressive icy columns.
Which waterfalls are easily accessible without a long hike?
For easy access, Cataract Falls is a short 0.75-mile walk from the Sugarlands Visitor Center. Meigs Falls is a roadside waterfall that requires no hiking to view, and The Sinks is also accessible by car, offering a unique formation and a popular swimming spot.
Are there any waterfalls known for unique natural phenomena?
Rainbow Falls is famous for the stunning rainbows that appear in its mist on sunny afternoons, particularly around 1 PM. The Sinks is also unique due to its unusual formation, created by the riverbed being dynamited during logging days, resulting in a deep, picturesque pool.
What are some challenging waterfall hikes for experienced trekkers?
For a strenuous challenge, the hike to Ramsey Cascades is an 8-mile round trip, climbing 2,500 feet to the tallest waterfall in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The trail to Rainbow Falls is also considered strenuous, at 5.4 miles round trip with over 1,500 feet of elevation gain.
Can I find secluded or less-known waterfalls in the area?
Baskins Creek Falls is a lesser-known, peaceful spot, offering a 35-foot, two-tiered waterfall via a moderately easy 3-mile round-trip hike. Hen Wallow Falls, a 90-foot waterfall, also offers a moderate 4.4-mile round-trip hike to a quieter setting.
What outdoor activities can I do near these waterfalls?
The area around Gatlinburg offers numerous hiking opportunities. You can explore various trails, from easy walks like the Gatlinburg Trail to more challenging routes. For specific waterfall hikes, check out the Waterfall hikes around Gatlinburg guide, which includes routes to Rainbow Falls and Grotto Falls.
Are there any waterfalls outside the Great Smoky Mountains National Park but still near Gatlinburg?
Yes, Mingo Falls is located on the Cherokee Indian Reservation just outside the national park. It's one of the tallest waterfalls in the southern Appalachian Mountains, rising to 180 feet, and is accessible via a short but steep 0.4-mile trail.
What should I bring for a waterfall hike in Gatlinburg?
For any waterfall hike, it's recommended to bring water and possibly a snack. Sturdier footwear than flip-flops is advisable, even on paved paths. Bug spray can be helpful, especially in shaded, moist areas. A supportive backpack for your items and a good camera are also useful.
Is there a waterfall known for its powerful flow?
Abrams Falls, while only about 20-25 feet tall, is renowned for its immense power and the large volume of water that crashes into a deep, picturesque pool. The hike to Abrams Falls is a 5-mile round-trip trail of moderate difficulty.
Are there any waterfalls that are currently closed or have special conditions?
Laurel Falls, a very popular 80-foot multi-tiered waterfall, is currently closed for rehabilitation work and is expected to reopen in the summer of 2026. Always check current park updates for any trail closures or conditions before visiting.
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