Best Waterfalls in Gatlinburg

Are you looking for an incredible waterfall to visit during your trip to Gatlinburg? If so, you’ll want to check out some of the best waterfalls in the area! There are plenty of wonderful falls to explore, and each one is unique and beautiful in its way. So if you’re looking for a breathtaking sight, be sure to add one or more of these falls to your itinerary. Keep reading for information on some of the best waterfalls in Gatlinburg! 

The waterfalls of Gatlinburg

For those who love the sight and sound of cascading water, Gatlinburg is a paradise with its numerous waterfalls located throughout the area. While some of the falls are easily accessible from highway-side pull-offs, others require a short hike up into the mountains. The following list showcases some of the most scenic and popular falls in Gatlinburg. No matter your ability or experience level, there’s something for everyone to enjoy! Let’s take a look…

Grotto Falls

The first waterfall on our list is Grotto Falls, and it lives up to its name. This secluded 25-foot tall cascade is located in the Tremont area of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. What’s unique about Grotto Falls is that you can walk behind the falls themselves – making for a true one-of-a-kind experience.

How to get there

To reach Grotto Falls, take the Middle Prong Trail from the Tremont Parking Area. The hike is approximately 2.6 miles roundtrip and is considered to be moderately difficult. However, the effort is well worth it when you arrive at this magnificent waterfall!

Rainbow Falls

Rainbow Falls is breathtaking. This magnificent 80-foot tall waterfall is located in the Rainbow Falls Trailhead area of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. As its name suggests, you might even see a rainbow or two if you visit after a rainstorm!

How to get there

To reach Rainbow Falls, take the Cherokee Orchard Road to the Rainbow Falls Trailhead. The hike is approximately 5.4 miles roundtrip and is considered to be moderately difficult.

Elkmont Cascades

The Elkmont Cascades are located in the Elkmont Historic District of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This series of small waterfalls are fed by Little River and cascades down a set of stairs made of rocks and logs. At the bottom of the falls, the river forms a large pool that’s perfect for cooling off on a hot day.

How to get there

To reach the Elkmont Cascades, take the Little River Trail from the Sugarlands Visitor Center. The hike is approximately 2 miles roundtrip and is considered to be easy.

Laurel Falls

This 80-foot tall cascade is located near the Sugarlands Visitor Center and is easily accessible for those who don’t want to hike. In fact, there’s even a paved trail leading up to the falls!

How to get there

To reach Laurel Falls, take the Sugarlands Visitor Center Road to the Laurel Falls Parking Area. The hike is approximately 2.6 miles roundtrip and is considered to be easy.

Abrams Falls

Abrams Falls is one of the largest waterfalls in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This 20-foot tall cascade is located in the Cades Cove area of the park. While the waterfall itself isn’t particularly tall, it’s very wide – making for a truly impressive sight.

How to get there

To reach Abrams Falls, take the Cades Cove Loop Road to the Abrams Falls Trailhead. The hike is approximately 5 miles roundtrip and is considered to be moderate.

Mouse Creek Falls

Mouse Creek Falls is one of the most unique waterfalls in Gatlinburg. This spectacular waterfall is located in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and can only be seen from a distance. While you can’t get up close and personal with this cascade, it’s still definitely worth a visit!

How to get there

To reach Mouse Creek Falls, take the Newfound Gap Road to the Mouse Creek Falls Overlook. The hike is approximately 0.5 miles roundtrip and is considered to be easy.

The Sinks

This 60-foot tall cascade is located in the West Prong of the Little Pigeon River. What’s unique about The Sinks is that the waterfall flows into a large pool of water before cascading over the edge again.

How to get there

To reach The Sinks, take the Gatlinburg Trail from the Sugarlands Visitor Center. The hike is approximately 3 miles roundtrip and is considered to be easy.

Ramsey Cascades

Ramsey Cascades is the tallest waterfall in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This magnificent 100-foot-tall cascade is located in the Greenbrier area of the park.

How to get there

To reach Ramsey Cascades, take the Ramsey Cascades Trail from the Greenbrier Picnic Area. The hike is approximately 8 miles roundtrip and is considered to be moderate.

Best time of year to visit Gatlinburg

If you’re looking to see Gatlinburg’s waterfalls at their best, the best time of year to visit is during the spring or summer. This is when the water flow is at its peak and the weather is ideal for hiking.

No matter what time of year you visit, though, Gatlinburg’s waterfalls are sure to impress!

Things to do in Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg is home to a variety of different attractions, activities, and things to see. Whether you’re looking for adventure or just want to relax, there’s something for everyone in Gatlinburg.

Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies

Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies is one of Gatlinburg’s most popular attractions. This world-class aquarium is home to a variety of different marine animals, including sharks, stingrays, and barracudas. With over 1,000 different animals on display, Ripley’s Aquarium is sure to impress!

Ober Gatlinburg Aerial Tramway

The Ober Gatlinburg Aerial Tramway is another popular Gatlinburg attraction. This tramway takes passengers from downtown Gatlinburg to the top of Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort. The trip takes approximately 10 minutes each way and offers stunning views of the Great Smoky Mountains.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Gatlinburg is also home to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which is the most visited national park in the United States. The park offers a variety of different activities and things to see, including hiking trails, waterfalls, and scenic overlooks.

Beyond the Lens Family Attraction in Pigeon Forge

Beyond the Lens is an interactive family attraction in Pigeon Forge that takes you on a journey through time! This attraction is perfect for families and kids of all ages.

Gatlinburg Mountain Coaster

The Gatlinburg Mountain Coaster is one of the most popular things to do in Gatlinburg. This thrilling coaster takes you on a ride through the mountains, offering stunning views of the Great Smoky Mountains.

Dollywood Theme Park

Dollywood Theme Park is another popular thing to do in Gatlinburg. This world-class theme park features a variety of different rides, shows, and attractions.

Great Smoky Mountain Wheel

The enormous, 200-foot-tall Great Smoky Mountain Wheel at The Island in Pigeon Forge is one of the world’s largest rotating wheels. This towering ride provides a bird’s eye view of the mountains during the day and a spectacular glimpse of city lights at night.

Gatlinburg Ziplines

Gatlinburg ziplines are another popular activity in Gatlinburg. There are a variety of different zipline courses to choose from, ranging from beginner to expert. No matter what you’re looking for, there’s sure to be something for everyone in Gatlinburg!

The Rocky Top Wine Trail

The Rocky Top Wine Trail is a must-do for any wine lover visiting Gatlinburg. This trail features a variety of different wineries, each offering a unique experience. In the Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge areas, there are several wineries. Try some local specialties like Muscadine wine or cold strawberry wine for something different.

Anakeesta Chondola Ride

The Anakeesta Chondola Ride is a must-do for anyone visiting Gatlinburg. This gondola ride takes you to the top of Anakeesta Mountain, where you can enjoy stunning views of the Great Smoky Mountains.

On the top of Anakeesta Mountain, the beautiful Firefly Village is accessible by way of the Anakeesta Chondola (a combination of a chairlift and a gondola). Here you’ll find enjoyable outdoor activities like the canopy walk, a zip line, and several overlooks with views of the mountain.

Horseback Rides

One of the best ways to experience the Great Smoky Mountains is on horseback. There are a variety of different companies that offer horseback rides in Gatlinburg, ranging from beginner to advanced.

Moonshine tours

In Gatlinburg, you may always visit the moonshine and whiskey distilleries. Touring a local distillery is a fantastic way to experience the local culture while tasting moonshine. You can also sample the spirit for a few dollars and learn how it’s produced.

Whitewater Rafting

Rowing on a wild river in the Smokies is exhilarating. You may go whitewater rafting on the Pigeon River from Memorial Day to Labor Day as long as you have a guide. The thrilling whitewater adventure awaits you at this action-packed resort, which has both class III and IV rapids.

Get ready to enjoy the Smokies!

If you’re looking for a great way to experience the beauty of the Smoky Mountains, be sure to check out some of the amazing waterfalls in Gatlinburg. There are a variety of different falls to choose from, each offering its unique charm. You can find waterfalls near downtown Gatlinburg as well as in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. No matter what you’re looking for, there’s sure to be a waterfall that’s perfect for you!