OTBPOff the Beaten PathEast TennesseeGet the guide
← Back to the Great Smoky Mountains

Great Smoky Mountains · Waterfalls & Nature

Follow the water.
Find your wild.

Ten nature experiences across the national park—from easy riverside walks to strenuous waterfall climbs.

This is the home for the real mountain hikes, waterfalls, forests, and rivers—not the Sevierville city page. Choose the experience that fits your group, the weather, and the time you truly have.

Waterfall safety: The National Park Service warns against swimming or climbing around waterfalls. Rocks are slippery, currents are powerful, and water-related injuries can be severe.
01

Sugarlands

Cataract Falls

About 1 mile round tripEasy

Best for: A first waterfall walk or a short family outing

Begin near Sugarlands Visitor Center and follow a gentle wooded path to a small waterfall. It is a welcoming introduction to the park when your group wants nature without a long climb.

02

Roaring Fork

Grotto Falls

About 2.6 miles round tripModerate

Best for: A classic waterfall with a memorable trail experience

Follow Trillium Gap Trail through rich forest to the falls. Parking is very limited, so start early and keep a backup plan for busy days.

03

Roaring Fork

Rainbow Falls

5.4 miles round tripModerately strenuous

Best for: A rewarding climb to one of the park’s signature falls

This is a real mountain hike with a steep ascent, not a quick roadside stop. Bring sturdy footwear, water, snacks, and enough time to enjoy the route safely.

04

Cades Cove

Abrams Falls

About 5 miles round tripModerate

Best for: A powerful waterfall and a full half-day outing

A popular Cades Cove hike through rolling forest to a broad, rushing waterfall. The water is dangerous—enjoy the view from dry ground and never climb on rocks around the falls.

Current note: As of August 2026, the trail is closed Monday–Thursday through September 30 and open Friday–Sunday plus Labor Day.
05

Greenbrier

Ramsey Cascades

8 miles round tripStrenuous

Best for: Experienced hikers seeking the park’s tallest waterfall

Expect more than 2,100 feet of elevation gain on a challenging backcountry route. This is a prepare-carefully hike for fit groups, not a casual waterfall walk.

06

Bryson City side

Deep Creek Waterfall Loop

About 2.4 milesEasy to moderate

Best for: Several waterfalls in one compact outing

Explore the Deep Creek area for a loop that connects multiple cascades and a lively mountain stream. It is a strong choice when you want variety without committing to an all-day climb.

07

Tremont

Middle Prong Trail

Flexible out-and-backEasy to moderate

Best for: Cascades, wildflowers, and choosing your own turnaround

Walk an old road beside rushing water toward Lynn Camp Prong Cascades. The first two miles are especially rewarding in spring, and you can turn around whenever the day feels complete.

08

Elkmont

Little River Trail

4 miles out and back to sample itEasy to moderate

Best for: A broad riverside trail with spring wildflowers

Follow the scenic Little River on a relatively wide, level path. Walk the first two miles and return for a relaxed outing, or connect other trails only if your group is prepared for more distance.

09

Greenbrier

Porters Creek Trail

About 4 miles round tripModerate

Best for: Wildflowers, forest history, and Fern Branch Falls

The first 1.5 miles are known for spring wildflowers, while the longer outing adds historic remnants, creek scenery, and a waterfall tumbling beside the trail.

10

Cherokee side

Oconaluftee River Trail

3 miles round tripEasy

Best for: A gentle riverside nature walk for mixed-age groups

Start at Oconaluftee Visitor Center for an easy walk beside the river. It is a calmer nature experience and a useful option when a steep waterfall climb is not right for the day.

A different kind of outdoor day

Looking for an easy paved walk instead?

Keep the rugged park trails here and use the Sevierville Greenways guide for city paths, river walks, and family-friendly loops.

Explore Sevierville Greenways →