The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is home to some magnificent waterfalls. You should definitely check one out during your visit! Before you do that though, read about some ways to stay safe and have fun as you start planning. Here are a few helpful tips for visiting Smoky Mountain waterfalls:
1. Bring Your Camera
Any of the Smoky Mountain waterfalls will make a great backdrop for photos, so bring your camera to capture the memories! Stand in front of the tall waterfall for engagement photos, holiday cards, or even impromptu selfies with friends. The scenery is beautiful all year, from green leaves and wildflowers to fall foliage, or even a blanket of snow.
Read More: Interesting Things to Know About How Smoky Mountain Waterfalls Freeze
Tip: If you plan on taking nicer photos, the morning would be a great time to visit. Beat some of the crowds and take advantage of milder weather in the warmer months. To reach the waterfall, you will have to take a hike, so dress accordingly.
2. Wear The Right Gear
If you do some exploring around the water, be sure that you have the right gear. Proper shoes are a must. Choose a pair that is close-toed and has good traction. The area around the waterfall can be wet and slippery. Good shoes will help you maintain your balance. Make sure they are waterproof as well. It is important to keep your feet dry. You don’t want wet shoes to put a damper on your fun day. Another essential piece of hiking gear for your waterfall day is a waterproof backpack. This will ensure that your important supplies, such as food and first aid, don’t get wet.
3. Be Mindful of the Weather
You also need to be mindful of the weather when you visit one of the Smoky Mountain waterfalls. Significant amounts of rain can cause the pool below a waterfall to flood. Do not attempt to cross a footbridge if you notice that the water is overflowing. The National Park Service may even decide to temporarily close down some areas until the water recedes. Keep track of the Smokies Road Info page (@SmokiesRoadsNPS) on X for the most up-to-date information on closures. Have a backup plan in place if needed.
4. Don’t Swim in the Water
Swimming is not permitted at most waterfalls in the Smokies due to the large volume of water and strong undertow (Abrams Falls being one of the most dangerous!). However, one of the waterfalls you can swim in is Tom Branch Falls on the Deep Creek Waterfall Loop; this is also a great area for tubing! The water is calmer because the waterfall is not as high as the other ones on the loop.
You can also find Midnight Hole on the Big Creek Trail. It is a large green pool with a 6-foot waterfall. It is located about 1.5 miles from the trailhead. Look for a tree with a white circle painted on it.
Bonus Tip: Remember to leave no trace when you’re out exploring waterfalls; that means no disturbing of the rocks in the water or along the banks of the pools. This damages the natural habitat and endangers the salamander species!
Explore GSMNP Waterfalls
Now that you know how to stay safe and have fun when you explore Smoky Mountain waterfalls, you just need to figure out which one to visit. Check out our list of the best waterfalls in the Smoky Mountains!
