The Great Smoky Mountains are blessed with a plethora of natural beauty. In addition to diverse wildlife and stunning whitewater rapids, the Smokies are also home to a number of gorgeous waterfalls. With over 200,000 visitors a year, waterfalls in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park are some of the of biggest attractions in Gatlinburg. Abrams Falls is one of the best waterfalls in the Smokies.
Abrams Falls and its creek take their name from a Cherokee chief whose village was once located downstream. Despite being only 20 feet high, this scenic waterfall has large volumes of rushing water and a long deep pool at its base. Although this pool is beautiful, it has very strong currents and an undertow, so swimming is very dangerous and prohibited. Also, be sure to refrain from climbing the rocks around the waterfall, as they are extremely slippery due to mist and algae.
Visitors seeking this waterfall can take the Abrams Falls Trail which is located past stop #10 on the Cades Cove Loop Road. The round trip hike to the Falls is five miles and is considered to be moderately difficult. It takes between three and four hours to complete a hike to the waterfall and back.
Another great way to experience nature in the Smokies, is with an exciting whitewater rafting trip. With both mild and wild adventures along the Pigeon River, it is easy to see why Smoky Mountain Outdoors is one of the most popular attractions in Gatlinburg. Visit our Rafting Trips page to learn all about the great whitewater rafting expeditions we offer!
