If you are at the campground at Arrow Creek, you’re likely to spend at least one day in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It’s a question we get asked constantly: “Which waterfalls can we view, aside from hiking the entire vacation? Fortunately, there are several of the best waterfalls near Gatlinburg within grabbing distance for a single day. It’s an early morning from the campground to visit several of the beautiful falls and depart early one afternoon for a lunch stop in Gatlinburg if you wish – then throw yourself back around the campfire.
These are the waterfalls that we recommend when you want to explore some of the Smokies’ popular waterfall trails.
Laurel Falls
For those who intend to visit only one waterfall, Laurel Falls should be their choice once the trail reopens! The paved hiking trail, which is one of the park’s most popular trails, leads to an impressive 80-foot (24-meter) waterfall with a pair of cascading sections that are suitable for many of the park’s visitors.
Experience has taught us that it’s a question of timing. Once the trail reopens, those who depart from Arrow Creek Campground early after breakfast may have a better chance of securing parking before the parking lot fills up. The trail is also cooler in the morning, making for a more comfortable walk before the weather starts to heat up.
Grotto Falls
If a little difference is what you are in need of, then take a hike at Grotto Falls on the Trillium Gap Trail. Unlike the other popular hikes, this one lets you walk behind the waterfall as the water cascades in front of you.
The forest can stay cool even on summer afternoons, although we recommend visiting early in the day. Some areas of the trail can be wet, so avoid wearing sandals. Guests repeatedly ask us for a somewhat adventurous hike that does not take all day, making this one of their favourite destinations.
Cataract Falls
Not all of the memorable waterfalls are far off and require much of a hike. About ½ mile in from the Sugarlands Visitor Center is Cataract Falls. It travels a short and easy trail and is ideal for younger children. If you are looking for a quick visit before embarking on a longer hike.
Cataract Falls is highly recommended with either Laurel Falls or Grotto Falls, as it is so close to the visitor center. A convenient route to another of the pretty waterfalls found near Gatlinburg, with little to no additional time added to the day.
Rainbow Falls
For a more difficult hike, add in Rainbow Falls. One of the highest waterfalls in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, at 80 ft, is this waterfall. When the rain falls smoothly, the water from the falls runs more strongly, and on sunny afternoons. The mist occasionally sparkles into a rainbow, providing the falls with their name.
It’s more strenuous than the others on our list and involves more of a vertical ascent and descent. We would typically recommend this hike for hikers with a regular background. Do either at an early time or with lots of water or enough time to enjoy the falls before returning.
Planning your Waterfall day
Several waterfalls are in proximity to Gatlinburg. The easiest place to see them is to start at Arrow Creek Campground right after breakfast. Try Cataract Falls and then, once the trail reopens, Laurel Falls before it gets really busy in the morning. If you are prepared for a more moderate hike, head on up to Grotto Falls. Those who have seen enough in a few visits but want one last adventure must take on Rainbow Falls.
If we try to pile too many things into one day, we’re more likely to spend more of it rushing than enjoying. It is better to select two or three falls to visit than to see them all.
A Few Tips Before You Go
Predictions of clear skies should not be taken as a fact, mountain weather is not to be taken lightly. You need to pack a wet-weather jacket! Hiking shoes that are comfortable and provide traction are important—trails may remain wet after wet. Take water, a small snack bar, and pre-load maps before you leave Arrow Creek signals are weak in the park.
End the Day Back at Camp
One of the best things about visiting the falls near Gatlinburg is getting back to a quiet campground afterward. Return to your RV, tent, or cabin at Arrow Creek Campground for a comfortable night’s rest after the trails.