Abrams Falls
Hike to the most voluminous waterfall in the Smokies, a rewarding 5-mile trek through lush forests in historic Cades Cove.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Abrams Falls
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike to the most voluminous waterfall in the Smokies, a rewarding 5-mile trek through lush forests in historic Cades Cove.
"The hike will take 3-4 hours. It took us almost 4 hours and we had a five year old."
🥾 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Rocky and root-filled trail. Wear robust hiking boots for comfort and safety.
⏰ Go Early to Avoid Crowds
The trail and Cades Cove can get very busy. Arrive before 9 AM for a more peaceful experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Abrams Falls
Cades Cove Loop Road
The most voluminous waterfall in the Smokies, offering a powerful cascade into a deep pool.

Cades Cove Loop Road
Start of Abrams Falls Trail
A scenic drive through a historic valley, offering wildlife viewing and access to the trailhead.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Abrams Falls
Gear Up for the Trail
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Rocky and root-filled trail. Wear robust hiking boots for comfort and safety.
⏰ Go Early to Avoid Crowds
The trail and Cades Cove can get very busy. Arrive before 9 AM for a more peaceful experience.
🏊♀️ Pack Your Swimsuit
The pool at the base of Abrams Falls is perfect for a refreshing dip on a hot day.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
It's a 5-mile hike, so stay hydrated, especially during warmer months.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Rocky and root-filled trail. Wear robust hiking boots for comfort and safety.
⏰ Go Early to Avoid Crowds
The trail and Cades Cove can get very busy. Arrive before 9 AM for a more peaceful experience.
🏊♀️ Pack Your Swimsuit
The pool at the base of Abrams Falls is perfect for a refreshing dip on a hot day.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
It's a 5-mile hike, so stay hydrated, especially during warmer months.
🚗 Factor in Cades Cove Traffic
The loop road can be slow-moving due to traffic and wildlife sightings.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Abrams Falls for its impressive volume and the rewarding hike through nature. Many highlight the beauty of the waterfall and the refreshing swimming opportunities. However, some find the 5-mile hike strenuous, especially with young children, and advise arriving very early to avoid crowds and traffic congestion in Cades Cove.
"It was nice just don’t go when it’s too hot. Lol There’s enough of a pathway for two people to walk comfortably. It’s pretty rocky, but not to the point where you can’t do it without getting really uncomfortable…. And don’t go with somebody who likes to race through it as much more enjoyable if you go slower and the waterfall is really pretty so it’s very worth it and you can also go swimming here!!"
DebbiAnne Holland
"Great hike! It is quite a bit rocky and a lot of roots so wear super sturdy hiking boots. Great reward with a beautiful waterfall and then 2.5 miles back. Total of 5 miles 3 to 4 hour route."
Nye P
"A great hike in Cade's Cove. This one is pretty family friendly. It took us about 2 1/2 hours with three teens. This is a well traveled trail. The waterfall was busy but there are many rocks to sit on to enjoy the view. This trail has some uphill portions that may challenge some hikers."
Kimberly Sterne
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Abrams Falls is located within Great Smoky Mountains National Park, accessible via the Cades Cove Loop Road. You'll need to drive into Cades Cove to reach the trailhead. Be prepared for potential traffic delays on the loop road, especially during peak hours.
Cades Cove Loop Road is generally open year-round, but it is closed to vehicle traffic on Wednesdays from early May through late September to allow for pedestrian and bicycle use. Check the park's official website for current closures and hours.
Driving the Cades Cove Loop Road is the primary way to access Abrams Falls. It's a one-way road, so allow ample time as traffic can be slow due to wildlife sightings and other visitors.
Currently, there are no dedicated shuttle services directly to the Abrams Falls trailhead. Visitors must drive their own vehicles or use private transportation to access the Cades Cove Loop Road.
There is a designated parking area at the Abrams Falls Trailhead. However, it can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and holidays. Arriving early is highly recommended.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Abrams Falls is located within Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which does not charge an entrance fee. However, a parking tag is required for any vehicle parked for more than 15 minutes within the park. These can be purchased online or at visitor centers.
The Abrams Falls Trail is open during daylight hours, consistent with park access. The Cades Cove Loop Road has specific operating hours, which can vary seasonally. Always check the park's official website for the most up-to-date information.
No, there is no separate admission fee for hiking to Abrams Falls. The only cost associated with visiting the park is the required parking tag if you plan to park for more than 15 minutes.
Tickets are not required for Abrams Falls. However, if you plan to visit during peak times, consider arriving very early to secure parking and avoid disappointment.
The park is generally open to visitors. However, trail closures can occur due to weather or maintenance. It's always a good idea to check the park's official website for any alerts or advisories before your visit.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The hike to Abrams Falls is approximately 5 miles roundtrip, taking about 3 to 4 hours to complete, depending on your pace and how long you spend at the falls.
The hike is considered moderately challenging. It involves rocky terrain, roots, and some uphill sections, but it's generally manageable for most hikers with sturdy footwear.
Yes, swimming is permitted in the pool at the base of Abrams Falls. However, be cautious of the strong currents and slippery rocks.
While some families with older children find it manageable, it's generally not recommended for very young children due to the strenuous nature of the hike and the rocky terrain.
You might spot deer, black bears, and various bird species. Some visitors have even reported seeing river otters near the falls. Remember to maintain a safe distance from all wildlife.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows. Arriving early also helps you capture the falls with fewer people in the frame.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the entire waterfall and its surroundings. A tripod can be useful for longer exposures to smooth out the water.
The main viewing area is at the base of the falls. Be mindful of slippery rocks when positioning yourself for the best shot.
Drone usage is restricted in most national parks, including Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Check the park's official regulations regarding drone operation before your visit.
Beyond Abrams Falls, the historic cabins, churches, and scenic overlooks along the Cades Cove Loop Road offer excellent photographic opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Abrams Falls Hike: What to Expect
While the elevation gain isn't extreme, the cumulative effect over 5 miles can be tiring for some. The reward at the end is the impressive Abrams Falls, known for its volume rather than its height. The water cascades over a wide rock face into a deep, inviting pool. This pool is a popular spot for brave swimmers looking to cool off, but caution is advised due to strong currents and slippery rocks.
To enhance your experience, consider visiting early in the morning to avoid the largest crowds and enjoy a more serene atmosphere. The Cades Cove Loop Road itself can experience significant traffic, so factor in extra time for your journey to the trailhead. Bringing plenty of water and snacks is also essential for this moderate trek.
Experiencing Cades Cove
Visitors often encounter white-tailed deer, black bears, turkeys, and other wildlife along the loop. It's crucial to maintain a safe distance from all animals and never feed them. The slow pace of the loop road, often dictated by traffic and wildlife jams, allows for ample opportunities to stop, explore the historic structures, and soak in the natural beauty. Many recommend dedicating at least half a day to fully explore Cades Cove, combining the Abrams Falls hike with stops at the various points of interest along the loop.
Remember that the Cades Cove Loop Road is closed to vehicles on Wednesdays during the peak season (May through September) to allow for pedestrian and bicycle use. This offers a unique and less crowded way to experience the valley for those who are able to visit on a Wednesday.
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