This Waterfall Road Trip in the Smoky Mountains is Totally Worth the Drive
Ready to chase some waterfalls? The Great Smoky Mountains National Park has some of the most magical spots you’ll ever see.
From easy strolls to more challenging hikes, this road trip will take you to a mix of stunning cascades that locals and visitors alike can’t get enough of. Let’s hit the road!
Stop 1: Laurel Falls
Kicking things off with a fan favorite: Laurel Falls. This 2.6-mile round-trip hike is perfect if you’re short on time but still want a big payoff. The trail’s paved (yay, no mud!) and ends with an 80-foot beauty surrounded by lush greenery.
Pro tip: go early to avoid the crowds and get that peaceful forest vibe.
Stop 2: Cataract Falls
Next up, Cataract Falls. It’s a quick and easy walk from the Sugarlands Visitor Center—great if you’ve got little ones or just need a breather. It’s small but super charming, and the area’s so quiet you’ll feel like you’ve stumbled onto a secret spot.
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Stop 3: Grotto Falls
Now for something really cool: Grotto Falls. It’s about a 3-mile round-trip hike on the Trillium Gap Trail, and here’s the kicker—you can walk behind the waterfall! Seriously, it’s like being in a movie.
Note: Keep an eye out for salamanders; they love hanging out here.
Stop 4: Rainbow Falls
If you’re up for a bit of a challenge, Rainbow Falls is your next stop. The 5.4-mile round-trip hike is a workout, but seeing the 80-foot cascade with rainbows dancing in the mist? Totally worth it. Pack some snacks and take your time; this one’s a journey.
Stop 5: Abrams Falls
Over in Cades Cove, Abrams Falls is calling. Sure, it’s only 20 feet tall, but the flow is so powerful it’ll leave you speechless. The 5-mile round-trip hike follows Abrams Creek and is just gorgeous.
Bonus: the drive through Cades Cove is its own kind of magic.
Stop 6: Ramsey Cascades
Feeling ambitious? Ramsey Cascades is the tallest waterfall in the park, and getting there is an adventure. The 8-mile round-trip hike is tough, but the reward—a 100-foot cascade in a dreamy old-growth forest—is unforgettable. Take it slow and soak in the surroundings.
Stop 7: Mingo Falls
Just outside the park near Cherokee, North Carolina, Mingo Falls is a showstopper. It’s 120 feet of cascading water, and the best part? It’s only a short (but steep!) climb up some stairs. Totally worth the leg burn.
Stop 8: Deep Creek Waterfalls
Tom Branch Falls, Indian Creek Falls, and Juney Whank Falls
Wrap things up in the Deep Creek area with a triple treat. Tom Branch Falls is peaceful and picture-perfect as it spills right into the creek. Indian Creek Falls is wider and dramatic, while Juney Whank Falls is a 90-foot cascade that’ll make you feel like you’ve stepped into a fairytale. The loop trail connecting them makes it easy to see all three.
Tips for Your Waterfall Road Trip
- Beat the Rush: Start early to enjoy the trails before they get busy.
- Pack Smart: Don’t forget water, snacks, and comfy shoes—and maybe a towel if you’re feeling brave enough to dip your toes.
- Respect Nature: Stick to the trails and leave no trace. Let’s keep the Smokies beautiful.
Whether you’re hiking behind Grotto Falls or snapping pics at Mingo Falls, these waterfalls are sure to leave you in awe. Let the Smokies work their magic on you!
Want more Smoky Mountain waterfalls? Check out 13 Amazing Smoky Mountain Waterfalls You Must See.
This article was originally published by Smoky Mountain Wanderings on December 30, 2024 and has been republished with permission.