
Meigs Falls
Meigs Falls offers a dual experience: a convenient roadside cascade and a rewarding hike with creek crossings in the Great Smoky Mountains.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Best water flow for dramatic falls

Meigs Falls
Best Time
Best water flow for dramatic falls

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Meigs Falls offers a dual experience: a convenient roadside cascade and a rewarding hike with creek crossings in the Great Smoky Mountains.
"A quick roadside stop or a challenging hike, Meigs Falls delivers beautiful cascades in the Smokies."

🚗 Roadside Pull-Off
Don't miss the pull-off on Little River Road for an easy, direct view of the falls!
🥾 Hike Preparedness
The Meigs Creek Trail involves creek crossings; wear waterproof shoes or be ready for wet feet!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Roadside View of Meigs Falls
Little River Road
Catch a glimpse of this beautiful cascade right from the road. Perfect for a quick photo op!

Meigs Creek Trail Hike
Trailhead near The Sinks
A moderate 3.5-mile roundtrip hike with river crossings leading to the base of the falls.

The Sinks Waterfall
Trailhead parking lot
Start your adventure with a view of this unique, swirling waterfall before heading to Meigs Falls.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Roadside Charm vs. Hiking Adventure
Timing is Key for Flow and Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Roadside Pull-Off
Don't miss the pull-off on Little River Road for an easy, direct view of the falls!
🥾 Hike Preparedness
The Meigs Creek Trail involves creek crossings; wear waterproof shoes or be ready for wet feet!
💧 Check Water Levels
Flow varies greatly. Dry spells can leave it as a trickle. Spring is usually best.
📸 Capture The Sinks
The trailhead for Meigs Falls often starts near The Sinks, a unique waterfall worth seeing.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Roadside Pull-Off
Don't miss the pull-off on Little River Road for an easy, direct view of the falls!
🥾 Hike Preparedness
The Meigs Creek Trail involves creek crossings; wear waterproof shoes or be ready for wet feet!
💧 Check Water Levels
Flow varies greatly. Dry spells can leave it as a trickle. Spring is usually best.
📸 Capture The Sinks
The trailhead for Meigs Falls often starts near The Sinks, a unique waterfall worth seeing.
🎟️ Parking Pass Needed
If you plan to hike, a parking pass is required for longer stays in the park.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Meigs Falls for its accessible roadside view and the rewarding, albeit challenging, hike to its base. Many enjoy the natural beauty and the opportunity for solitude on the trail. However, some have been disappointed by low water flow during dry periods, and the creek crossings on the hike can be strenuous.
"This was such a beautiful experience. Everyone i ran into hiking was pleasant and cheerful. Getting to the falls is an easy hike but stay away from the edge. After the falls, the hike gets a bit intense but once you get to the top, it is worth the view.
As the young kid told me "you can see the world"
Highly recommend a visit here and take the kids with bathin suits ! Beautiful place !"
Meghann Fund
"Nice view and very easy to get to but it was dried up when we visited. I'm sure it's beautiful when it's flowing but not on my visit. It was a trickle. I still enjoyed the scenery and small walk. Maybe next time it'll be flowing."
J-S Judd
"It is visible from the road... almost missed it. There is a pull out right where the waterfall is. Worth a quick stop, but no hike from the spot on the road. Nice spot if you are not up for hiking to some of the other waterfalls in the area."
Gabriela Espinoza Siebach
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Meigs Falls is accessible via two main ways: a quick roadside view on Little River Road in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, or via the Meigs Creek Trail, which starts near The Sinks waterfall. The roadside view requires no hiking, while the trail involves river crossings and inclines.
Meigs Falls is located within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, accessible from the Gatlinburg side via Little River Road. While Townsend is nearby, the falls are more commonly associated with the Gatlinburg entrance area.
Yes, there's a convenient pull-off directly across from Meigs Falls on Little River Road, offering a great view without any hiking.
For a hiking experience, the Meigs Creek Trail is recommended. It's an out-and-back trail of about 3.5 miles roundtrip, often starting near The Sinks. Be prepared for creek crossings.
Yes, Meigs Falls is located within the boundaries of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, a popular destination for waterfall viewing.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
If you plan to hike the Meigs Creek Trail or spend more than 15 minutes at the roadside pull-off, a parking pass for the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is required.
Meigs Falls is located within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which requires a parking tag for vehicles parked for more than 15 minutes. The tag can be purchased online or at visitor centers.
Meigs Falls is a natural attraction within the national park and is accessible year-round during daylight hours. The Meigs Creek Trail hike is best done during daylight for safety.
While you can get close to the water, swimming directly at Meigs Falls is generally not recommended due to slippery rocks and strong currents. The surrounding creeks may offer safer, shallow areas for wading.
The roadside view is accessible for all ages. The Meigs Creek Trail hike involves river crossings and uneven terrain, making it more suitable for older children and adults.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The Meigs Creek Trail is an out-and-back hike, approximately 3.5 miles roundtrip. It features several creek crossings, some of which can be challenging with slippery rocks and moderate currents. The trail also includes inclines and descents.
The roadside view can get busy, especially during peak season. The Meigs Creek Trail hike is generally less crowded, offering a more secluded experience, particularly if you go during off-peak hours.
For the Meigs Creek Trail, wear sturdy, waterproof hiking boots or shoes that you don't mind getting wet, as creek crossings are frequent. Quick-drying clothing is also advisable.
Restroom facilities are typically found at visitor centers or larger picnic areas within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. There are no dedicated restrooms directly at the Meigs Falls roadside pull-off or trailhead.
Nearby waterfalls in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park include The Sinks (often seen at the start of the Meigs Creek Trail), Grotto Falls, Rainbow Falls, and Laurel Falls (though Laurel Falls is currently closed for renovations).
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Early morning or late afternoon often provides softer light for photography. Midday sun can be harsh, but the spray from the falls can create interesting effects.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the entire waterfall and surrounding landscape. A tripod can help with long exposures to smooth out the water, especially in lower light.
Explore different angles by hiking the Meigs Creek Trail. Getting closer to the base or finding elevated spots can offer unique perspectives not visible from the road.
General photography is allowed. However, be mindful of park regulations regarding drones and commercial photography. Always respect the natural environment.
The Sinks waterfall has a dedicated lookout point from the parking lot, making it easily accessible for photos. The Meigs Creek Trail also offers views as you begin the hike.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Day-Trippers & Quick Stops
🏞️ Nature Enthusiasts & Hikers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Meigs Creek Trail
The trail also involves significant elevation changes, with challenging inclines and descents as you navigate the terrain. Despite the effort, the reward is reaching the base of Meigs Falls and often having it to yourself for a period. The scenery along the trail, including pine forests and the initial view of The Sinks waterfall, adds to the overall adventure.
Key takeaways for the hike: wear sturdy, water-friendly shoes; be prepared for wet conditions; and allow ample time for the roundtrip journey. The effort is often described as worthwhile for the secluded experience and the impressive views of the waterfall.
The Dual Nature of Meigs Falls: Roadside vs. Hike
In contrast, the Meigs Creek Trail provides a deeper connection with the natural environment. This hike, approximately 3.5 miles roundtrip, leads you to the base of the falls and offers a more secluded experience. It's a chance to truly immerse yourself in the Smokies, with the added challenge of creek crossings and varied terrain. This option appeals to hikers seeking a more active and rewarding encounter with the waterfall.
Ultimately, the choice between the roadside view and the hike depends on your priorities and available time. Both offer a chance to appreciate the beauty of Meigs Falls, but the hike provides a more comprehensive and adventurous experience.
Understanding Waterfall Flow at Meigs Falls
However, during drier seasons or prolonged dry spells, Meigs Falls can be reduced to a mere trickle. Some visitors have been disappointed to find the falls significantly diminished, leading to a less impressive experience. It's advisable to check recent conditions or local reports if you're visiting during a dry period and a strong flow is a priority for your visit.
For the best chance of seeing Meigs Falls in its full glory, plan your visit for the spring months or after significant weather events. This will maximize your opportunity to witness the powerful beauty of the cascade.



Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit