About Ramsey Cascades

Ramsey Cascades is the ultimate waterfall hike in Great Smoky Mountains National Park — and it earns that title honestly. At approximately 100 feet, it is the tallest waterfall in the park. The trail to reach it climbs 1,600 feet through a cathedral of old-growth forest, including some of the largest trees in the eastern United States. This is hiking at its most rewarding.

The Ramsey Prong corridor contains some of the most impressive old-growth Appalachian hardwood forest anywhere. Yellow poplars with trunks 6-8 feet across, ancient hemlocks, and centuries-old silverbells line the trail in the upper section. The falls themselves cascade in multiple tiers over massive boulders in a misty, fern-draped amphitheater.

Trail Highlights

• 100-foot multi-tiered plunge — the tallest waterfall in the Smokies
• Old-growth forest with trees among the largest in the eastern US
• 1,600-foot elevation gain makes this the most rewarding waterfall hike in the park
• Located in the quieter Greenbrier area away from Gatlinburg crowds
• The rocky trail in the upper mile requires sure footing and scrambling

Trail Description

From the Greenbrier trailhead off TN-321, cross the footbridge over the Middle Prong and follow Ramsey Prong upstream. The first 2 miles are relatively flat through second-growth forest — a warm-up for what's ahead.

At the 2-mile mark the trail enters the old-growth zone and begins climbing seriously. The final mile is steep and rocky, requiring careful footing over large boulders. The falls appear around a final bend — a massive multi-tiered cascade dropping into a spray-filled alcove surrounded by ancient trees. Return the same way.

Tips & What to Bring

• Start early — 8am at the latest — to secure parking and beat afternoon thunderstorms
• This is a serious hike; bring 2 liters of water per person and substantial snacks
• The rocky upper trail requires real hiking boots, not trail runners or sneakers
• Do not attempt in icy conditions — the boulders become extremely hazardous
• The old-growth forest section alone justifies the hike even on a dry-season visit

Getting There

From Gatlinburg, TN, take US-321 East approximately 6 miles. Turn right on Greenbrier Road and follow 3 miles to the end. The Ramsey Cascades trailhead is at the parking area. GPS: 35.6900, -83.3600.