Best Waterfall Hikes in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

This popular 0.8-mile paved trail offers an easy hike suitable for all ages, leading directly to an 80-foot cascading waterfall. It is one of the most accessible waterfalls in the park, featuring interpretive signs and a sturdy viewing platform for safe photography.

A 4-mile round-trip hike through dense hardwood forest that rewards hikers with a powerful 20-foot waterfall dropping into a deep pool. The trail is well-marked but requires moderate fitness, and the area often gets crowded, so early arrival is recommended.

This short 1.5-mile round-trip trail takes hikers past several small cascades before reaching a 25-foot waterfall that flows into a cave-like hollow behind it. The path is mostly flat with some rocky sections, making it a favorite for casual visitors seeking unique scenery.

A moderately strenuous 5.7-mile round-trip hike that follows a clear creek bed through lush hollows to North Carolina's largest waterfall in the park. The trail ends at a stunning 80-foot drop, and the route often includes sightings of natural spring water sources along the way.

Located on the North Carolina side, this 1.3-mile one-way trail descends through hemlock forests to a delicate, veil-like waterfall. Hikers can choose to hike out the same way or walk along the road, and the falls are particularly photogenic after rainfall.

A 1.8-mile round-trip hike in the Watala District that leads to a secluded 15-foot waterfall surrounded by lush vegetation. This lesser-known trail offers a quiet, peaceful experience away from the main park crowds, ideal for nature photographers and solitude seekers.

This 1.2-mile out-and-back trail provides easy access to a 25-foot waterfall located just off the main road near Sugarlands. It is an excellent option for families with young children or those with limited mobility who still want to see a significant waterfall.

A 1.2-mile paved trail that follows the Little River to a spectacular series of cascades and rapids rather than a single drop. The trail features multiple viewing areas and interpretive displays explaining the geological formation of the river gorge and the falls.

Part of the Deep Creek Recreation Area, this 2.4-mile round-trip trail features multiple waterfalls, including the main 50-foot Deep Creek Falls and smaller cascades like Indian Creek Falls. The area is popular for swimming, so expect more activity, especially in summer.

While not focused solely on waterfalls, this 2-mile loop trail passes near several seasonal streams and small cascades in the historic Cades Cove area. It combines cultural history with natural beauty, offering gentle terrain suitable for wheelchair users and strollers.

A challenging 5.3-mile round-trip hike that offers views of a distant waterfall cascading down a cliff face, though the falls themselves are not directly accessible. The trail provides panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and is best hiked in spring or fall for optimal foliage.

A paved, accessible 1.5-mile loop that runs alongside the Oconaluftee River, featuring several small waterfalls and rapids. This trail is ideal for visitors seeking easy walking with constant views of flowing water and diverse riparian wildlife.

A short 0.3-mile paved trail near the Sugarlands Visitor Center that highlights local geology and features a small, easily accessible stream side waterfall. It is perfect for a quick stop during a visit to the visitor center or for those with very tight schedules.

A 0.8-mile loop trail located near the Cosby area that offers views of a secluded waterfall hidden within a deep, shadowy gorge. The trail is moderate in difficulty and provides a serene atmosphere, often requiring a short scramble to get the best views.

Accessible via a short spur off the main road in the Cosby area, this trail leads to a 40-foot waterfall that is popular for wading. The area is known for its cool water temperatures and is a favorite spot for locals and visitors looking to cool off.

While not a single trail, this road features several pull-offs with views of waterfalls in the distance, such as those visible from the Rainbow Falls overlook. It is a great option for visitors who want to see waterfall landscapes without significant physical exertion.

A one-mile motor trail that offers views of several small waterfalls and rapids along Roaring Fork Creek. Pedestrians can walk the full length, experiencing the mist and sound of the water as it tumbles over rocks in a narrow, shaded gorge.

A 1.8-mile round-trip hike in the remote eastern section of the park near Wataela that leads to a tall, secluded waterfall. This trail is less visited than others, offering a sense of adventure and pristine natural conditions for experienced hikers.

Located near Deep Creek, this trail leads to a series of cascades that are often dry in late summer but impressive after rain. The hike is short and easy, making it a convenient addition to a longer visit to the Deep Creek Recreation Area.

A long-distance 17-mile trail that passes near several hidden waterfalls and spring-fed pools, though most require off-trail scrambling to view. This route is best for experienced backpackers looking to explore the remote interior of the park and find secluded aquatic features.

A 0.6-mile spur trail off the main road near Cosby that leads to a 15-foot waterfall surrounded by lush ferns. It is an easy, low-impact hike that is perfect for beginners or those looking for a quick, rewarding nature stop.