About Abrams Falls

Abrams Falls is the most rewarding waterfall hike in Cades Cove, one of the most popular destinations in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The falls are not especially tall — about 20 feet — but they are tremendously wide, stretching across the full width of Abrams Creek in a thundering curtain that feeds one of the deepest and clearest swimming pools in the park.

The 5-mile round trip trail descends from the Cades Cove loop road through a diverse Appalachian forest, crossing Abrams Creek on a footbridge before climbing and descending along the gorge walls. The creek runs an unusual turquoise-green color, the result of dissolved minerals from limestone bedrock upstream. Wildlife sightings are common — deer, wild turkey, and occasional black bears.

Trail Highlights

• 20-foot-wide curtain waterfall with one of the park's deepest swimming holes
• Turquoise-green water from dissolved limestone minerals upstream
• High likelihood of wildlife sightings along the gorge trail
• Cades Cove loop provides additional wildlife viewing before or after the hike
• One of the most popular but genuinely rewarding trails in the Smokies

Trail Description

From the Abrams Falls trailhead at the western end of the Cades Cove loop road, follow the trail southwest through hardwood forest. The path crosses a footbridge over Abrams Creek and begins climbing the gorge wall.

After 2.5 miles the trail descends sharply to the base of the falls. The wide curtain and deep pool are immediately impressive — the turquoise water catches sunlight beautifully in the afternoon. Return via the same route, enjoying the gorge scenery at a relaxed pace on the way back.

Tips & What to Bring

• Cades Cove loop traffic peaks on weekends — consider a Tuesday/Wednesday visit
• The parking area at the trailhead fills by 9am on summer weekends — arrive early
• Swimming in the pool is allowed but the current near the falls is powerful — stay to the edges
• Wildlife is most active at dawn and dusk on the Cades Cove loop
• Bring trekking poles for the final steep descent to the falls base

Getting There

From Townsend, TN, enter Great Smoky Mountains National Park via Laurel Creek Road and follow the Cades Cove loop road. The Abrams Falls trailhead is near the western end of the loop. GPS: 35.5800, -83.8700.