The Best Waterfalls Near Gatlinburg for Every Skill Level
By Leif Palmer
Posted on January 10, 2026
One of the most rewarding experiences in Great Smoky Mountains National Park is visiting one of its beautiful waterfalls. With hundreds of miles of streams flowing through the mountains, the park is home to numerous waterfalls ranging from easily accessible roadside attractions to more challenging backcountry destinations.
Fortunately, many of the most popular waterfalls are located within a short drive of Gatlinburg, making them perfect additions to a Smoky Mountain vacation. Whether you're traveling with young children, looking for a moderate hike, or seeking a more adventurous outdoor experience, there's a waterfall that fits your plans.
If you're planning your first visit to the area, our First-Time Visitor's Guide to Gatlinburg is an excellent starting point for planning your trip.
Why Waterfalls Are So Popular in the Smokies
The Smoky Mountains receive abundant rainfall throughout the year, creating countless streams, cascades, and waterfalls throughout the national park. Combined with the area's lush forests and mountain scenery, waterfalls provide some of the most photographed locations in the region.
Many visitors include at least one waterfall hike during their vacation because these destinations combine natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and opportunities to experience the park away from busy commercial areas.
The sound of rushing water and the cooler temperatures often found near waterfalls create a peaceful environment that appeals to visitors of all ages.
Laurel Falls
Laurel Falls is easily one of the most famous waterfalls in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
The waterfall drops approximately 80 feet and is accessed via one of the park's most popular hiking trails. The paved pathway makes Laurel Falls one of the more accessible waterfall destinations in the Smokies, though visitors should still wear appropriate footwear and exercise caution.
Because of its popularity, arriving early in the day often provides the best experience. During busy seasons, parking near the trailhead can fill quickly.
For visitors with limited hiking experience, Laurel Falls is often the first waterfall they choose to visit.
Grotto Falls
Grotto Falls offers one of the most unique waterfall experiences in the Smokies. Unlike most waterfalls, visitors can actually walk behind the falling water.
Located along the Trillium Gap Trail within the Roaring Fork area, Grotto Falls stands approximately 25 feet tall and provides a memorable destination for families and photographers.
The hike is moderately challenging but manageable for many visitors with average fitness levels.
The surrounding forest and stream create an especially beautiful setting during spring and summer.
Rainbow Falls
Rainbow Falls is the tallest single-drop waterfall in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, plunging approximately 80 feet down a rocky cliff.
The trail to Rainbow Falls is more challenging than Laurel Falls or Grotto Falls, making it a better option for visitors seeking a longer hike.
During sunny afternoons, mist from the waterfall often creates rainbows, giving the waterfall its name.
The reward at the end of the hike is one of the most impressive waterfall views in the park.
Abrams Falls
Located in Cades Cove, Abrams Falls is another popular destination for visitors seeking a moderate hike.
Although the waterfall itself is only about 20 feet high, the large volume of water rushing through the narrow channel creates an impressive display of power.
The trail offers scenic forest views and opportunities to experience a quieter side of the national park.
Many visitors combine Abrams Falls with a drive around the Cades Cove Loop Road.
Hen Wallow Falls
For visitors looking to avoid some of the larger crowds, Hen Wallow Falls provides a rewarding alternative.
This waterfall drops approximately 90 feet and is located in the Cosby area of the national park. The hike is moderately strenuous but often less crowded than some of the park's more famous waterfall trails.
The peaceful setting makes it a favorite among experienced hikers and photographers.
Baskins Creek Falls
Baskins Creek Falls is one of the lesser-known waterfalls near Gatlinburg. The trail receives fewer visitors than many of the park's more famous destinations, creating a quieter experience.
The waterfall itself consists of multiple cascades flowing through a wooded setting.
Visitors looking for a less crowded hike often find Baskins Creek Falls to be a worthwhile destination.
Combining Waterfalls with Scenic Drives
Many waterfall adventures can easily be combined with some of the park's most beautiful scenic drives.
For example, visitors heading to Grotto Falls can also enjoy Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, while those visiting Abrams Falls can explore Cades Cove.
To discover additional driving routes, see our guide to the most beautiful scenic drives in the Smoky Mountains.
Wildlife Along Waterfall Trails
Many waterfall trails pass through excellent wildlife habitat. While sightings are never guaranteed, visitors occasionally encounter deer, wild turkeys, and other animals along the way.
Black bears also inhabit many areas of the park, making it important to remain alert and follow all National Park Service safety guidelines.
For more wildlife viewing opportunities, read our guide on where to see wildlife in the Smoky Mountains.
What to Bring on a Waterfall Hike
Even relatively short waterfall hikes require some preparation.
Visitors should bring water, comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and a camera. Trail conditions can vary depending on recent rainfall, so checking weather forecasts before heading out is a good idea.
During warmer months, sunscreen and insect repellent can also be helpful.
When Is the Best Time to Visit?
Waterfalls can be enjoyed year-round, but each season offers a different experience.
Spring often brings higher water levels due to seasonal rainfall. Summer provides lush green surroundings. Fall combines waterfalls with colorful foliage. Winter occasionally creates icy scenes that can be especially beautiful.
To learn more about seasonal travel, see our guide to the best time to visit the Smoky Mountains.
Adding Waterfalls to Your Smoky Mountain Itinerary
Many visitors include a waterfall stop as part of a larger day exploring the national park.
If you're trying to maximize your time, our one-day Smoky Mountains itinerary provides a useful framework for combining waterfalls, scenic drives, wildlife viewing, and mountain overlooks into a single memorable day.
Parking Before Heading into the Park
Many waterfall adventures begin in Gatlinburg, making downtown parking part of the day's planning process.
Before heading into the national park, visitors can review parking maps, lot locations, and helpful visitor information at Parking in Gatlinburg. Planning ahead can save valuable vacation time.
Final Thoughts
The waterfalls of Great Smoky Mountains National Park offer some of the most rewarding outdoor experiences in the region. Whether you're looking for a short family-friendly walk to Laurel Falls, the unique experience of walking behind Grotto Falls, or the challenge of reaching Rainbow Falls, there is a waterfall for every type of visitor.
Adding one or more waterfalls to your Smoky Mountain itinerary allows you to experience the beauty, power, and tranquility that make the Smokies one of America's most beloved national parks.
About Leif Palmer
Leif Palmer loves residing in Gatlinburg. He is an avid outdoorsman: rowing for exercise on the lake, trail hiking, and free climbing rocks in the mountains. He indulges his arty side by periodically beating up pieces of marble by sculpting. He is always frustrated by his inability to sink long putts, and hates his curly hair (but his wife loves it). Leif has been known to muster enough courage to change a diaper, and hopes his son will become a chip off the old block.