Top 7 Waterfalls in the Great Smoky Mountains for Beginners

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The Great Smoky Mountains are packed with incredible waterfalls, and the best part is that many of them are perfect for beginners. Whether you’re just getting started with hiking, planning a family adventure, or simply looking for a scenic outdoor escape, these waterfalls offer beautiful views without requiring an intense trek deep into the wilderness.

If you’re visiting the Smokies for the first time, these beginner-friendly waterfall hikes are a great way to experience the beauty of the mountains while enjoying peaceful trails, fresh mountain air, and unforgettable scenery.

Before hitting the trail, make sure to pack a few hiking essentials like a lightweight backpack, comfortable hiking shoes, trekking poles, a reusable water bottle, and a rain jacket. The weather in the Smokies can change quickly, especially near waterfalls and higher elevations.

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1. Laurel Falls

Laurel Falls is one of the most popular waterfalls in the Smoky Mountains, and for good reason. This stunning 80-foot waterfall is accessible by a paved trail, making it one of the easiest waterfall hikes for beginners and families.

The trail is only about 2.6 miles round trip and offers beautiful forest scenery along the way. Because it’s paved, many visitors consider it one of the best beginner hikes in the entire national park.

What to Bring:

• Lightweight hiking shoes

• Water bottle

• Small daypack

• Phone tripod for waterfall photos

Great Amazon Gear Ideas:

• Merrell Moab Womens Hiking Shoes

• Merrell Moab Mens Hiking Shoes

• Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket

• Columbia Women’s Arcadia II Jacket

• Nalgene Water Bottle

• Trekking Poles

• Osprey Daylite Daypack

• Adventure Medical Kit

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2. Grotto Falls

Grotto Falls is one of the coolest waterfalls in the Smokies because you can actually walk behind the waterfall. Located along the Trillium Gap Trail, this hike is around 2.6 miles round trip and offers a moderate but beginner-friendly adventure.

The trail winds through old-growth forest and feels like something straight out of a mountain postcard.

Why Beginners Love It:

• Unique walk-behind waterfall

• Beautiful forest scenery

• Great photography opportunities

Recommended Gear:

• Hiking Backpack

• Waterproof hiking boots

• Quick-dry hiking socks

• Lightweight rain jacket

• Cooling Towel

Amazon Product Ideas:

• Hiking poles

• Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket

• Columbia Women’s Arcadia II Jacket

• Darn Tough Hiking Socks

• Ariat H2O Hiking Boot

• Adventure Medical Kit

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3. Abrams Falls

Although Abrams Falls is shorter in height than some Smoky Mountain waterfalls, it makes up for it with sheer power and beauty. The hike is around 5 miles round trip and is perfect for beginners looking to challenge themselves a little more.

Located in Cades Cove, this trail is one of the most scenic in the park and offers excellent opportunities to spot wildlife along the way.

Beginner Tip:

Start early in the morning to avoid crowds and summer heat.

Helpful Hiking Essentials:

• Hiking backpack

• Snacks and trail mix

• Portable phone charger

• Hiking Sun hat

Great Amazon Finds:

• Hiking poles

• Anker Portable Charger

• Water Bottle

• Sun Hat

• Adventure Medical Kit

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4. Cataract Falls

If you’re looking for a super easy waterfall hike, Cataract Falls is perfect. This short walk near the Sugarlands Visitor Center is ideal for families, kids, or anyone wanting a quick outdoor adventure.

The trail is less than a mile round trip and offers peaceful woodland scenery leading to a small but beautiful waterfall.

Perfect For:

• Families

• Beginners

• Quick stops in the park

Simple Outdoor Gear Suggestions:

• Comfortable trail shoes

• Reusable water bottle

• Cooling Towel

Amazon Product Ideas:

• Hiking Backpack

• Water Bottle

• Lightweight Trail Runners

• Hiking Socks

• Adventure Medical Kit

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5. Rainbow Falls

Rainbow Falls is one of the tallest waterfalls in the Smokies at 80 feet tall. The hike is a little more challenging at around 5.4 miles round trip, but many beginners still tackle it successfully with proper preparation.

The waterfall gets its name from the rainbows that often appear in the mist on sunny afternoons.

Beginner Hiking Tips:

• Wear supportive shoes

• Bring extra water

• Take your time on steeper sections

Recommended Hiking Gear:

• Trekking poles

• Cooling towel

• Lightweight hiking backpack

Amazon Gear Recommendations:

• Trekking Poles

• YETI Rambler Water Bottle

• Osprey Hiking Backpack

• Adventure Medical Kit

• Keen Mens Headout Low Height Waterproof All Terrain Hiking Shoe

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6. Hen Wallow Falls

Hen Wallow Falls is a hidden gem located near Cosby Campground. This 90-foot waterfall offers a quieter hiking experience compared to some of the more crowded Smoky Mountain trails.

The hike is about 4.4 miles round trip and takes you through lush forest filled with wildflowers and towering trees.

Watch our YouTube video on Hen Wallow Falls:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZrNuUcaWLfs&t=16s

Why It’s Great:

• Less crowded

• Peaceful trail

• Beautiful forest scenery

Great Gear to Bring:

• Trekking poles

• Bug spray

• Hiking socks

• Hiking Backpack

• Compact first aid kit

Amazon Product Suggestions:

• Hiking poles

• Sawyer Insect Repellent

• Adventure Medical Kit

• Hiking Socks

• Cooling Towel

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7. Baskins Creek Falls

Baskins Creek Falls is one of the lesser-known waterfall hikes in the Smokies, making it a perfect choice for beginners who want to avoid heavy crowds.

The trail is around 3 miles round trip and features peaceful forest scenery and a gorgeous multi-tiered waterfall.

Best Time to Visit:

Spring and early summer usually offer the best water flow.

Helpful Outdoor Essentials:

• Trail snacks

• Water Bottle

• Hiking poles

• Hiking Socks

• Lightweight jacket

Amazon Affiliate Ideas:

• Columbia Women’s Arcadia II Jacket

• Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket

• Collapsible Trekking Poles

• Adventure Medical Kit

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Final Thoughts

The Great Smoky Mountains are home to some of the most beautiful beginner-friendly waterfall hikes in the country. Whether you’re exploring paved trails like Laurel Falls or tackling slightly longer adventures like Abrams Falls or Rainbow Falls, there’s something here for every outdoor enthusiast.

One of the best parts about hiking these trails is that you don’t need expensive or complicated gear to get started. A comfortable pair of hiking shoes, a good backpack, plenty of water, and a sense of adventure are often all you need.

If you’re planning a trip to the Smokies, these waterfalls should absolutely be on your list. They offer incredible scenery, memorable experiences, and some of the best outdoor photography opportunities in the Southeast.