Pigeon Forge, TN, is nestled in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains and offers the perfect getaway for nature lovers and adventure seekers! When you stay at our Pigeon Forge cabins, you’re just a short drive from some of the most breathtaking waterfalls in the area! Keep reading to learn more about some of the must-see Smoky Mountain waterfalls near Pigeon Forge.
1. Baskins Creek Falls
Baskins Creek Falls is one of the Smoky Mountain waterfalls near Pigeon Forge that you won’t want to miss! This waterfall can be found along the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail just a short drive outside of Gatlinburg. To reach the falls, park at the trailhead and hike the Baskins Creek Trail. This trail is 3.1 miles round trip and gains a total of 912 feet in elevation, making it moderately difficult. Baskins Creek Falls awaits at the end of the trail. This picturesque 40-foot waterfall cascades into a tranquil pool and provides a peaceful spot for relaxing in nature and taking photos!
2. Cataract Falls
To reach Cataract Falls, make your way to the Sugarlands Visitor Center just outside of Gatlinburg. This is one of the easiest waterfalls near Pigeon Forge to access. The trail is less than a mile round trip and gains less than 30 feet of elevation, making it easy for all ages! Cataract Falls Trail starts as a paved, wheelchair-accessible path from the visitor center. However, the trail eventually turns into a gravel path as it follows alongside the creek. After you go under a bridge and up a small flight of stairs, you’ll see the 25-foot-tall Cataract Falls. This tiered waterfall becomes truly impressive after it rains!
3. Spruce Flats Falls
One of the breathtaking waterfalls near Pigeon Forge can be found tucked away in the Tremont section of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Spruce Flats Falls Trail is a short hike at just 1.8 miles round trip, but it also gains 413 feet in elevation, making it a moderate hike. Spruce Flats Falls is a four-tiered waterfall that stands 30 feet tall. It plunges into a series of pristine pools and runs into the Middle Prong of the Little River. This secluded waterfall is perfect if you want to escape the more crowded trails and enjoy nature in a serene setting!
4. Grotto Falls
Grotto Falls is another one of the must-see waterfalls near Pigeon Forge, and it can be found via the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail outside of Gatlinburg. You’ll hike the Trillium Gap Trail for a total of 2.6 miles round trip. Most of the trail is well-worn and wide, though there are some rocky and wet areas. While Grotto Falls is only 25 feet tall, it is one of the most unique Smoky Mountain waterfalls. This is the only waterfall in the national park that you can walk behind! This lets you hear and feel the power of the water as it plunges into the pool below. It also makes for a one-of-a-kind photo op!
5. Meigs Falls
One of the easiest to reach waterfalls near Pigeon Forge is Meigs Falls. This is ideal for anyone who wants to see a Smoky Mountain waterfall without hiking. Meigs Falls is a stunning 18-foot waterfall that can be seen directly from Little River Road! You can stop at the spacious pull-out area to watch the falls and capture a photo without embarking on a hike. This is the perfect stop for individuals with limited mobility or anyone who wants to experience natural beauty without leaving the comfort of their car. You can reach Meigs Falls by taking Little River Road from Townsend or Gatlinburg.
More Trails to Hike Near Pigeon Forge, TN
Whether you're an avid hiker or simply enjoy the tranquility of nature, these waterfalls near Pigeon Forge offer something for everyone! Each provides a unique experience, from challenging treks to accessible roadside views, ensuring that your visit to the Great Smoky Mountains is filled with unforgettable natural beauty. Are you looking for more trails to explore during your stay? Check out the top hiking trails near Pigeon Forge!
