Abrams Falls - Image 1
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Abrams Falls

4.8
·955 reviews·Townsend, United States

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, cooler temps

CrowdLow
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Abrams Falls - Image 1

Abrams Falls

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, cooler temps

CrowdLow
Highlights

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.

4.8
(955 reviews)

"The hike will take 3-4 hours. It took us almost 4 hours and we had a five year old."

Vertical photo
TIP

🥾 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.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Abrams Falls

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

Cades Cove Loop Road

Start of Abrams Falls Trail

A scenic drive through a historic valley, offering wildlife viewing and access to the trailhead.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything for Abrams Falls

Beat the crowds and the heat by arriving early, especially during peak season. The Cades Cove Loop Road can get congested, so factor in extra travel time. Consider visiting on a weekday for a more serene experience.

Gear Up for the Trail

This 5-mile roundtrip hike involves rocky terrain and roots, so sturdy hiking boots are a must. Bring plenty of water and snacks, and don't forget your swimsuit if you plan to take a dip in the pool below the falls!

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Crowd
Low
When
Fall
Why
Beautiful foliage, pleasant weather
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer afternoons
Why
Refreshing swim opportunity
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The tallest & most beautiful waterfall from Great Smoky Mountains National Park! 📍Abrams Falls, TN. Bucketlist💯🤩⛰️🥾❄️ amazing hike! #mountain #Hiking #hike #waterfall #greatsmokymountains #greatsmokymountainsnationalpark #tennesseecheck #northcarolinacheck
@yoyo_golden_trails
22.6K likes • 323.1K views

🥾 Sturdy Footwear is Key

Rocky and root-filled trail. Wear robust hiking boots for comfort and safety. Reddit

⏰ Go Early to Avoid Crowds

The trail and Cades Cove can get very busy. Arrive before 9 AM for a more peaceful experience. TikTokInstagram

🔖 Save this Tennessee waterfall hike for your next trip to Great Smoky Mountains National Park! 🥾 It you’re looking for the best waterfall hikes in Tennessee, you should be following @thetennesseehiker! 📲 Share this with your hiking buddies who you want to go here with! This was such a beautiful but very busy waterfall hike in the smokies. I’d recommend starting early or late in the day to avoid t...
@thetennesseehiker
17.2K likes • 257.1K views
Abrams Falls at the Smokies 💦⛰️🌲 Abrams Falls is a special waterfall. It's the most voluminous falls in the smokies. It's also nestled in the outskirts of Cades Cove. In fact you actually have to drive into Cades Cove to get to the trail head. For that reason I recommend doing this one early… unless long lines of vehicles going at ultra-slow speeds are your thing (never know). The trail begins a...
floralshirtrichard
138 likes • 1.6K views

🏊‍♀️ Pack Your Swimsuit

The pool at the base of Abrams Falls is perfect for a refreshing dip on a hot day. TikTok

💧 Bring Plenty of Water

It's a 5-mile hike, so stay hydrated, especially during warmer months. Reddit

Abrams Falls 💚
2passports_1love
160 likes • 4.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🥾 Sturdy Footwear is Key

Rocky and root-filled trail. Wear robust hiking boots for comfort and safety. Reddit

⏰ Go Early to Avoid Crowds

The trail and Cades Cove can get very busy. Arrive before 9 AM for a more peaceful experience. TikTokInstagram

🏊‍♀️ Pack Your Swimsuit

The pool at the base of Abrams Falls is perfect for a refreshing dip on a hot day. TikTok

💧 Bring Plenty of Water

It's a 5-mile hike, so stay hydrated, especially during warmer months. Reddit

🚗 Factor in Cades Cove Traffic

The loop road can be slow-moving due to traffic and wildlife sightings. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.8
(955 reviews)

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

Beautiful, voluminous waterfall
Rewarding 5-mile hike
Refreshing swimming pool

What People Dislike

Strenuous hike for some
Crowded trail and road
Rocky and root-filled path

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. TikTokInstagram

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

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. Reddit

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. TikTok

🎫 🎫 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. TikTok

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

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. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ 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. TikTokReddit

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. TikTokReddit

Yes, swimming is permitted in the pool at the base of Abrams Falls. However, be cautious of the strong currents and slippery rocks. TikTokReddit

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. Reddit

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. InstagramReddit

📸 📸 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. TikTokInstagram

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. Instagram

The main viewing area is at the base of the falls. Be mindful of slippery rocks when positioning yourself for the best shot. Instagram

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. Reddit

Beyond Abrams Falls, the historic cabins, churches, and scenic overlooks along the Cades Cove Loop Road offer excellent photographic opportunities. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Abrams Falls hike is a 5-mile roundtrip trek that can be challenging for very young children due to its rocky terrain and some uphill sections. Reddit While some families with older teens have completed it successfully, it's best to assess your children's stamina and hiking experience. Reddit If you do decide to tackle it, ensure everyone has sturdy footwear, plenty of water, and snacks. Reddit Consider making the Cades Cove Loop Road the primary focus for younger children, as it offers easier exploration of historic buildings and frequent opportunities for wildlife spotting without the strenuous hike. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Budget Travelers

Abrams Falls is an excellent choice for budget travelers as Great Smoky Mountains National Park has no entrance fee. TikTok The only required cost is a parking tag if you plan to park for more than 15 minutes within the park. TikTok Pack your own food and water for the hike to save on expenses. Reddit The scenic drive through Cades Cove and the hike itself provide incredible value for a free natural attraction. Instagram

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Abrams Falls offers fantastic photographic opportunities, especially for capturing powerful water features. Instagram The best times for light are early morning and late afternoon. TikTokInstagram Consider bringing a wide-angle lens to encompass the falls and surrounding forest, and a tripod for smoother water effects. Instagram Beyond the falls, the historic structures and landscapes of Cades Cove provide ample subjects for landscape and historical photography. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Abrams Falls Hike: What to Expect

The trail to Abrams Falls is a popular 5-mile roundtrip hike that begins from the Cades Cove Loop Road. It's generally rated as moderately challenging due to its length, rocky terrain, and numerous tree roots. Hikers often describe the path as having a steady incline on the way to the falls and a corresponding decline on the return journey. TikTokReddit The trail winds through lush forest, offering a pleasant immersion in nature. Many visitors recommend wearing sturdy hiking boots to navigate the uneven surfaces comfortably and safely. Reddit

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. Instagram This pool is a popular spot for brave swimmers looking to cool off, but caution is advised due to strong currents and slippery rocks. TikTokReddit

To enhance your experience, consider visiting early in the morning to avoid the largest crowds and enjoy a more serene atmosphere. TikTokInstagram The Cades Cove Loop Road itself can experience significant traffic, so factor in extra time for your journey to the trailhead. TikTok Bringing plenty of water and snacks is also essential for this moderate trek. Reddit

Experiencing Cades Cove

Abrams Falls is just one of the many attractions within the historic Cades Cove valley. This broad, verdant valley is one of the most popular destinations in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, offering a glimpse into the region's past and abundant wildlife viewing opportunities. TikTok The 11-mile, one-way Cades Cove Loop Road provides access to historic homesteads, churches, and stunning mountain vistas. TikTok

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. Reddit 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. TikTok 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. Reddit

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. TikTok

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