Abrams Falls Hike
Waterfall | Tennessee
5 mi round trip
Route line not shown. The 5 mi distance for this hike is verified (nps.gov), but we don't yet have a trail track we trust, so the map shows only the destination. Carry an official map.
About Abrams Falls
Abrams Falls is a waterfall in Tennessee, on land managed by Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
The Hike
The hike to the falls follows the Abrams Falls Trail: 5 miles round trip, from Abrams Falls Trailhead, Cades Cove. Distance from nps.gov.
Before You Go
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park requires a parking tag. (nps.gov)
- Pets are not allowed on this trail; in the park they are permitted only on the Gatlinburg Trail and the Oconaluftee River Trail. (nps.gov)
- Swimming is strongly discouraged because of slippery rocks and a deadly undertow. (nps.gov)
- Rock around waterfalls is slick when wet; stay on the trail and back from the edge.
- Check Great Smoky Mountains National Park for current conditions, closures and parking before you go.
Sources
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the hike to Abrams Falls?
The Abrams Falls Trail to Abrams Falls is 5 miles round trip.
Where does the Abrams Falls hike start?
It starts from Abrams Falls Trailhead, Cades Cove.
Is there a fee to hike to Abrams Falls?
Great Smoky Mountains National Park requires a parking tag.
Are dogs allowed on the Abrams Falls trail?
Pets are not allowed on this trail; in the park they are permitted only on the Gatlinburg Trail and the Oconaluftee River Trail.
Safety Information
Current Hazards
- Slippery wet rock near the falls
- Fast, high water after rain or snowmelt
- Check weather before departure
Turn-Around Time
3:00 PM
Plan to reach the falls by this time so you are back before dark.
Essential Gear Checklist
* Critical items - do not hike without these
Emergency Contacts
Emergency / Search & Rescue
911Point Forecast
NWS Point Forecast →In most of the US, backcountry search and rescue is dispatched through 911 — tell the operator you have a hiker emergency and your GPS coordinates.
Downloads
Sources for The Abrams Falls Guide
Where the trail data, elevation and route line on this page come from.
- Verified against
- nps.gov
- Distance
- nps.gov
- Falls location
- waterfallhikes.com
- Elevation
- ≈ Copernicus GLO-90 elevation model at the falls coordinates (via Open-Meteo)
Conditions change. Check the land manager for closures, fees and weather before you go.
Nearby Hikes
Other hikes within 30 miles of Abrams Falls.