Hike to Ramsey Cascades

Hike 8 miles (12.9 km) roundtrip from Ramsey Cascades Trailhead on Ramsey Prong Road in Greenbrier.

NPS Photo

Overview

Expect extreme crowding and limited parking—consider a shuttle or alternate hikes listed below

Hike 8 miles (12.9 km) roundtrip on this popular but relatively challenging trail through cove hardwood forest to see the tallest waterfall in Great Smoky Mountains National Park at 105 feet (32 m).

The trail begins on an old roadbed and passes through a cove hardwood forest but becomes narrower and rockier as it ascends more than 2,000 feet (610 m) in elevation and crosses multiple footlog bridges and streams along the way.

Please do not attempt to climb to the top of the falls—it is muddy and slippery.

Length

8 miles (12.9 km) roundtrip

Parking & Trailhead

Please consider a shuttle or park at Ramsey Cascades Trailhead on Ramsey Prong Road in Greenbrier. Don't forget your parking tag.

Nearest Restroom

Greenbrier Picnic Area

Alternate Hikes

• Hen Wallow Falls: 4.3 miles (6.9 km) roundtrip
• Lynn Camp Prong Cascades: 1.4 miles (2.3 km) roundtrip

Details

Activity

Hiking

Pets Allowed

No

The Gatlinburg Trail and Oconaluftee River Trail are the only two park trails where pets are permitted. Pets are also allowed in picnic areas, in campgrounds, and on roads.

Activity Fee

Yes

A parking tag is required to park in the Smokies for more than 15 minutes.

Location

Expect crowds and full parking at Ramsey Cascades Trailhead—consider a shuttle

Take a shuttle to avoid parking stress.

Reservations

No

Accessibility Information

Trail has many steep sections plus roots and rocks on the trail.