If you’re visiting Great Smoky Mountains National Park and looking for a beautiful waterfall without a strenuous hike, look no further than Cataract Falls. Located just a short distance from the Sugarlands Visitor Center near Gatlinburg, this waterfall is one of the most accessible in the entire park. The trail is perfect for families with small children, older adults, or anyone simply short on time. From the designated parking area, a simple and mostly flat path winds through the woods for an easy walk.
The hike to the falls is a pleasant journey of about 0.4 miles one-way. The path follows a small creek, offering peaceful sounds and scenery along the way. While not a towering plunge, Cataract Falls is a multi-tiered cascade that tumbles over the rocks into a shallow pool. For a minimal investment of time and effort, Cataract Falls delivers a rewarding experience. It’s a great introduction to the natural wonders of the Smokies or a great final stop before leaving the park.
Directions:
- To arrive at the Sugarlands Visitor Center Parking from Gatlinburg, you will head south on US-441 S/Parkway for 3 miles.
- Once you’ve reached the Sugarlands Visitor Center, two parking areas will get you close to the trail.
- There is a somewhat complicated trail system that starts near the visitor’s center. Head toward the Park Headquarters and Smokies Life (a gift shop). The Cove Mountain Trailhead is close to the headquarters, and that leads directly past Cataract Falls. I took pictures of signs in 2013 that made it rather clear where to go, so I’m assuming the park info kiosks have that same information now.
Accessibility: 9/10 (easy)
Height: 30′ / 9 m
Length of Hike: 0.8 miles / 1.3 km round-trip
Where in the World is Cataract Falls?
Waterfall Record 
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