Whether you’re exploring the local area or hanging out at the campground, KOA Holidays are an ideal place to relax and play. There’s plenty to do, with amenities and services to make your stay memorable. Plus, you’ll enjoy the outdoor experience with upgraded RV Sites with KOA Patio® and Deluxe Cabins with full baths for camping in comfort. Bring your family, bring your friends, or bring the whole group – there’s plenty of ways to stay and explore.
Whether you’re exploring the local area or hanging out at the campground, KOA Holidays are an ideal place to relax and play. There’s plenty to do, with amenities and services to make your stay memorable. Plus, you’ll enjoy the outdoor experience with upgraded RV Sites with KOA Patio® and Deluxe Cabins with full baths for camping in comfort. Bring your family, bring your friends, or bring the whole group – there’s plenty of ways to stay and explore.
Please take note of these revised directions to avoid a closed section of I-40.
FROM FLORIDA: Take I-75 North to I-40 East. Then take exit 435 to Newport. Turn Right on US-321 towards Gatlinburg on 321 to our campground.
FROM THE NORTHEAST: Take I-81 South to I-40 East to exit 435 to Newport. Turn Right on US-321 towards Gatlinburg on 321 to our campground..
Great Smoky Mountains National Park (GSMNP) is home to some of the most spectacular waterfalls, drawing visitors from around the world to witness their natural beauty. Whether you are staying at Gatlinburg East / Smoky Mountain KOA Holiday or exploring the area for the day, these stunning cascading waterfalls offer unforgettable experiences for hikers of all skill levels.
The Grotto Falls Trail offers a truly unique experience, as it is the only waterfall in the park where you can walk behind the cascading water. This 2.6-mile round-trip hike follows the Trillium Gap Trail through a lush forest of rhododendron and hemlock to a 25-foot waterfall.
You will cross several small streams along the way, so waterproof boots are recommended. The path can get muddy after rainfall, but the reward of standing behind the falls makes every step worthwhile. Access the trailhead from stop No. 5 on the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail.
Laurel Falls is one of the most popular Great Smoky Mountain waterfalls, featuring a paved 2.6-mile round-trip trail that is perfect for families with young children. The 80-foot waterfall splits into upper and lower sections, divided by a sturdy bridge that offers excellent photo opportunities.
The trail gains about 300 feet in elevation and is considered easy to moderate. Located just 3 miles from Sugarlands Visitor Center near Gatlinburg, this accessible hike attracts many visitors. Arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds and secure parking. Bicycles and pets are not allowed on this trail.
Note that Laurel Falls Trail is closed for an 18-month rehabilitation beginning Jan 6, 2025.
Rainbow Falls gets its name from the colorful mist that appears at its base on sunny afternoons. This impressive 80-foot waterfall requires a more challenging 5.6-mile round-trip hike with approximately 1,500 feet of elevation gain.
The trail passes through old-growth forest and offers glimpses of burn scars from a 2016 fire, showcasing nature's resilience. The steep climb rewards hikers with one of the most photogenic waterfalls in Gatlinburg, located in the park. Access the trailhead from Cherokee Orchard Road. Consider using a shuttle service during peak seasons because parking fills up quickly.
At about 105 feet, Ramsey Cascades is the tallest waterfall in GSMNP. This strenuous 8-mile round-trip hike gains 2,190 feet in elevation and takes you through the park's largest remaining old-growth forest.
Along the trail, you will encounter some of the park's tallest trees, including massive tuliptrees, hemlocks and yellow birches. The last third of a mile becomes quite rugged, requiring careful navigation over rocks and roots. The spectacular multi-tiered cascade and pristine pool at the end make this challenging hike a bucket-list experience for serious waterfall enthusiasts.
While Abrams Falls drops only 25 feet, it is one of the most voluminous waterfalls in the Smokies, creating a powerful display as water crashes into a deep pool below. The 5-mile round-trip hike from Cades Cove offers moderate difficulty with beautiful spring wildflowers.
The trail winds through rhododendron, hemlock and pine-oak forest before reaching the falls. Swimming is strongly discouraged due to dangerous undertows that have claimed lives. Access the trailhead from Cades Cove Loop Road between posts 10 and 11. Allow extra time for the scenic drive through the cove.
For those seeking a quieter waterfall experience, Baskins Creek Falls offers a peaceful 3-mile round-trip hike. This 40-foot, two-tiered waterfall remains one of the park's most underrated treasures.
The trail begins with an easy climb, then descends to the falls. You will cross Falls Branch without a footbridge, which can be challenging after heavy rain. The secluded setting makes this an ideal spot for a picnic lunch away from the crowds. Find the trailhead 0.2 miles along Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail.
Ready to explore the most breathtaking waterfalls in the Smokies? Gatlinburg East / Smoky Mountain KOA Holiday offers the perfect base camp for your waterfall hiking adventures. Our convenient location in Cosby offers easy access to all these stunning cascades while providing a peaceful mountain retreat.
Choose from RV Sites, comfortable cabins or spacious Tent Sites. After a day of hiking, enjoy the many amenities we offer, gather around the campfire or simply enjoy the mountain views from your site.
Reserve your stay today and start checking these magnificent waterfalls off your bucket list!
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