Great Smoky Mountains National Park is home to all kinds of natural wonders, including some of the most beautiful waterfalls in the country! If you are planning a family vacation to the Smokies and hope to see some of these stunning cascades, you’ll find several excellent hikes that are both easy and fun. These moderate hikes are ideal for bringing the kids, so bring the whole gang along for the adventure! Here are 3 of the best family-friendly hikes to Smoky Mountain waterfalls:
1. Fighting Creek Nature Trail
The Fighting Creek Nature Trail is one of the best waterfall hikes in Great Smoky Mountains National Park for families, as the path is flat and travels for under a mile round trip. The hike leads to Cataract Falls, a small cascading waterfall that is most dramatic after a heavy rain.
The trailhead is conveniently located just behind the Sugarlands Visitor Center, where you’ll find a bookstore, gift shop, restroom facilities, and more. After walking behind the building, turn left at the paved path onto Fighting Creek Nature Trail and then turn right at the trail junction after crossing the large bridge (roughly halfway through the hike).
2. Trillium Gap Trail
Another one of the best family-friendly hikes to Smoky Mountains waterfalls is the Trillium Gap Trail, a 3-mile round-trip hike that leads to Grotto Falls. This waterfall is particularly unique as it’s the only one in the National Park that you can walk directly behind, creating a memorable experience for both kids and adults!
The trail crosses multiple streams and meanders through sections of old-growth forest and rhododendron before it reaches the falls. The hike is considered moderate as it does have a steady uphill climb on the way and requires navigating some roots and rocks.
3. Big Creek Trail
If you are visiting the North Carolina side of the National Park, consider hiking along the Big Creek Trail to reach Mouse Creek Falls. This 41-foot-tall waterfall cascades down into Big Creek, and you’ll find a nearby log bench where you can rest and enjoy the views! The hike is about 4 miles roundtrip, but is relatively easy for families as the uphill walk is gradual.
Keep your eye out for the Midnight Hole along the trail, a popular swimming spot during the summer months! You’ll find the trailhead and parking at Big Creek Picnic Area, where you can take advantage of the seasonal restroom facilities before hitting the trail.
Roadside Alternatives
If you have very young children or family members with limited mobility, you’ll find a couple of excellent roadside alternatives where you can still enjoy some Smoky Mountain waterfalls! The Place of a Thousand Drips is a unique low-flowing cascade made up of countless tiny streams, and it is directly off the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail. Meanwhile, the Sinks is an easily accessible 15-foot waterfall located off of Little River Road. It sits right next to the road near a bridge, so no hiking is required to enjoy the view!
Now that you know some of the family-friendly hikes to Smoky Mountain waterfalls, you’re ready for the perfect trip to the National Park! If you’re looking for some other things to do as a family while in town, check out these things to do in the Smoky Mountains National Park with kids!
