Waterfalls are one of the most popular things to see in the Smokies. You can drive to some and others you get to hike to! There are also a variety of trails, from easy to moderate, you can choose from to see Smoky Mountain waterfalls. Check out these top 6 Smoky Mountain waterfalls you need to see:

1. Laurel Falls

The most popular waterfall hike in the Smokies is Laurel Falls. This trail is considered easy since it is paved, and it is 2.6 miles roundtrip. In the early spring, you’ll see a ton of mountain laurel, which is what the waterfall is named after. You will see some views of the mountains along the trail. At the end, you’ll finally see the 80-foot-tall waterfall. It is split into two tiers, and you can cross the waterfall to take pictures in front of it.

2. Cataract Falls

Another easy waterfall to get to is Cataract Falls. The trail is about 1 mile roundtrip, making it perfect for small children and older adults. The path is easily laid out, and you’ll get to hike next to the creek, cross the water on bridges, and see all kinds of neat nature features. Your kids will have a blast, and you’ll all love seeing Cataract Falls at the end.

3. Meigs Falls

Meigs Falls is a pretty cool Smoky Mountain waterfall. You can drive or hike to this waterfall. It is right off of Little River Road, so you get a great view from the road. There’s a spot where you can pull off to enjoy the view. If you want to see it up close, you can hike the 6.5 mile roundtrip trail through old forest growth.

4. The Sinks

The Sinks are more like a cascade instead of a true waterfall, but it’s still something you’ll want to see. You just have to drive to the parking lot to see this incredible natural feature. It is also off of Little River Road. There’s a swimming hole right next to the area, but be aware that people have drowned at The Sinks. There are a few hiking trails around this area, too.

5. Grotto Falls

A moderate hiking trail to get to a Smoky Mountain waterfall is Grotto Falls. The length is 3 miles, and it takes about 2 to 3 hours to hike to and from the waterfall. You might see llamas on this trail, because they use llamas to get supplies to the top of Mount LeConte. You’ll hike alongside the creek most of the way, and once you reach the falls, you’ll see why people love this trail. Grotto Falls is the only waterfall you can walk behind in the national park, but it can be slippery due to mist and algae.

6. Abrams Falls

Abrams Falls is another great moderate hiking trail to see a Smoky Mountain waterfall. The trailhead is located in Cades Cove, so you’ll get to see beautiful views, historic buildings, and much more before you reach the trailhead. Along the trail, you’ll see wildflowers, old forest growth, and the creek before you reach the falls. Abrams Falls is 20 feet tall and has an impressive amount of water that gushes over the side.

These Smoky Mountain waterfalls are just a few of the incredible things you’ll want to experience while you’re in town. Are you ready to plan your next trip? Book one of our Smoky Mountain cabins today!