Hike to Abrams Falls (U.S. National Park Service)

Waterfall flows over rocks and pours into greenish colored pool with rocks and shrubs around it. — Hike 5 miles (8 km) roundtrip from the Abrams Falls Trailhead in Cades Cove.
Bob Carr Photo

Overview

Abrams Falls trail will be closed Mondays through Thursdays from August 24 to September 30 so that the park can replace aging footlog bridges and improve visitor safety. During construction the trail will remain open to hikers Fridays through Sundays, and on Labor Day.

Swimming is strongly discouraged due to slippery rocks and a deadly undertow

Walk 5 miles (8 km) roundtrip through rhododendron, hemlock, and pine-oak forest in Great Smoky Mountains National Park to a 25-foot (7.6-m) waterfall that flows over a ledge of sandstone into a deep, picturesque pool. This trail is also known for its spring wildflowers.

Length

5 miles (8 km) roundtrip

Parking & Trailhead

After driving roughly halfway around the one-way Cades Cove Loop Road, park at the Abrams Falls Trailhead at the end of Abrams Falls Road (between loop road sign posts 10 and 11). Don't forget your parking tag.

Nearest Restroom

Pit toilet at the trailhead (available year-round)

Alternate Hikes

Deep Creek Waterfall Loop: 2.4 miles (3.9 km) roundtrip
Lynn Camp Prong Cascades: 1.4 miles (2.3 km) roundtrip
West Prong: 5.4 miles (8.7 km) roundtrip

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

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

In addition to hiking time, allow up to three or four hours to drive the Cades Cove Loop Road.

Trail has occasional obstacles of roots and rocks.

Last updated: August 25, 2026