The Sinks
A beautiful, easily accessible waterfall in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, perfect for quick stops and scenic photos.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the weekend rush
The Sinks
Best Time
Beat the weekend rush
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A beautiful, easily accessible waterfall in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, perfect for quick stops and scenic photos.
"The greatest thing about this waterfall is that you don't have to hike to go see it!"
🚗 Parking is a challenge
Arrive early or be patient. Limited spots fill up fast, especially on weekends.
👟 Wear comfortable shoes
Essential for exploring the trails beyond the main waterfall overlook.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Sinks Waterfall
Main overlook
A beautiful, easily accessible waterfall with a unique, natural-feeling cascade.
River Access Point
Downstream from the waterfall
A calm, relaxing spot by the river, perfect for picnicking or dipping your feet.
Scenic Hiking Trails
Various trailheads near the parking lot
Explore further into the park with trails leading to other natural wonders.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Parking Pointers
Trail Preparedness
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking is a challenge
Arrive early or be patient. Limited spots fill up fast, especially on weekends.
👟 Wear comfortable shoes
Essential for exploring the trails beyond the main waterfall overlook.
Hikes near the Sink
💧 Bring water & snacks
No services nearby, so pack essentials for your visit.
⚠️ Swim with caution
While some locals swim, it's advised against due to dangerous currents.
The Sinks, Great Smoky Moutains.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking is a challenge
Arrive early or be patient. Limited spots fill up fast, especially on weekends.
👟 Wear comfortable shoes
Essential for exploring the trails beyond the main waterfall overlook.
💧 Bring water & snacks
No services nearby, so pack essentials for your visit.
⚠️ Swim with caution
While some locals swim, it's advised against due to dangerous currents.
📸 Great photo ops
Easy access to the waterfall makes for quick, stunning shots.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors love The Sinks for its beautiful, easily accessible waterfall, making it a convenient stop for quick photos and picnics. However, the extremely limited parking is a major drawback, often leading to frustration and long waits, especially on weekends. While some enjoy the river access, swimming is generally discouraged due to safety concerns.
"Nice place to hike, not alot of parking. Has a nice trail that you can take to other falls. I would make sure u bring water and some snacks and good shoes if going on the trail."
Lisa York
"Nice little waterfall with walking/hiking trails. Worth seeing if visiting from out of town. Locals sometimes dive and swim in a deeper hole down from the waterfall."
D'Nisha Channey
"The greatest thing about this waterfall is that you don't have to hike to go see it! The waterfall, even though it is unnatural, is really beautiful. I see people talk about swimming here but it's advised not to do so as it's very dangerous. We stopped by on a Sunday and it was very crowded with very limited parking."
Just Jana
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Sinks is located along Little River Road in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It's easily accessible by car from Gatlinburg or Townsend. The main attraction is right off the parking lot, making it a convenient stop.
Parking is available but extremely limited, especially on weekends and during peak season. Visitors often report a 'total nightmare' with parking. Arriving early in the morning or on a weekday is highly recommended.
Yes, The Sinks is accessible by car via Little River Road. The road is paved and well-maintained, offering scenic views on your way.
The main waterfall is just a short walk from the parking lot, making it very accessible. For those wanting to explore further, there are trail options.
Public transport is not available within Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Access to The Sinks is primarily by private vehicle.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no admission fee or ticket required to visit The Sinks. It is part of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which has no entrance fee.
The Sinks is accessible year-round during daylight hours. The park itself is open 24/7, but it's best to visit when there's natural light for safety and enjoyment.
As of recent updates, Great Smoky Mountains National Park does not have an entrance fee. However, parking tags are now required for vehicles parked for more than 15 minutes.
While official park tours might not specifically highlight The Sinks, many private tour operators include it as a stop on their scenic drives through the park.
The main restriction is related to parking availability. Swimming is generally advised against due to dangerous currents, though some locals do swim.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can admire the scenic waterfall, enjoy a picnic, and explore short hiking trails. Some visitors enjoy the calm river access downstream for relaxation.
Yes, the main waterfall is easily accessible from the parking lot, making it suitable for families. However, supervision is crucial near the water.
While some locals do swim in a deeper hole downstream, it is strongly advised against due to dangerous currents and potential hazards.
There are short walking and hiking trails that branch off from the main area, allowing you to explore the surrounding nature and potentially find other viewpoints.
Absolutely! The easily accessible waterfall provides great photo opportunities, especially with the surrounding lush greenery.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, there are no restaurants, cafes, or food services directly at The Sinks. It's a natural attraction within the park.
Yes, picnicking is popular at The Sinks. There are areas near the parking lot and along the river where you can enjoy a meal.
It's best to bring your own food and drinks. Pack a picnic basket with your favorite snacks and meals to enjoy by the waterfall or river.
The nearest dining options would be back in Gatlinburg or Townsend, which are a short drive away from The Sinks.
Standard park rules apply. Please pack out everything you pack in to help keep the area clean.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the waterfall and its surroundings. A tripod can be useful for longer exposures to smooth the water.
The main overlook provides a direct view of the waterfall. Exploring the river access point downstream also offers unique photographic perspectives.
Drone usage is restricted in national parks. Check the official Great Smoky Mountains National Park website for current regulations regarding drone operation.
The cascading water, the surrounding lush forest, and the unique rock formations are all highly photogenic.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the main viewpoint is safe, always supervise children closely near the water and on any trails. The river access downstream can be a calmer area for kids to splash their feet, but be aware of currents. Packing plenty of snacks and drinks is a must, as there are no concessions. The limited parking can be a challenge with kids, so an early start is your best bet to avoid meltdowns before you even arrive.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Consider visiting during the golden hours – early morning or late afternoon – for the best lighting conditions. A wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing the full scope of the waterfall and its environment. If you plan to achieve a silky smooth water effect, bring a tripod and experiment with longer exposure times. Remember to check park regulations regarding drone usage if you're interested in aerial photography.
🚶♀️ Day-Trippers & Road-Trippers
Be mindful of the parking situation, as it can significantly impact your stop duration. If parking is an issue, consider it a brief photo opportunity from the roadside or plan to return at a less busy time. It’s a great spot to combine with other nearby attractions along Little River Road, offering a refreshing break during your journey.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding The Sinks
While the waterfall is a natural wonder, its accessibility also means it can get quite crowded, particularly during peak seasons and weekends. The limited parking is a recurring theme in visitor feedback, often described as a 'nightmare.' This highlights the importance of planning your visit strategically to maximize enjoyment and minimize frustration. Despite the parking challenges, the ease of access and the beauty of the falls make it a worthwhile stop for many exploring the park.
Beyond the main waterfall, several short trails lead from the parking area, offering opportunities for further exploration. These trails can lead to different vantage points or connect to other parts of the park's extensive trail system. Visitors are advised to wear appropriate footwear if they plan to venture onto these paths, as they can be uneven and may involve stream crossings.
Navigating Parking and Access
Despite the parking issues, the accessibility of the main waterfall is a major draw. A short, easy walk from the parking lot brings you directly to the overlook, making it a perfect stop for those with limited mobility or time. This ease of access contrasts sharply with many other attractions in the Smokies that require strenuous hikes. For those who wish to explore more, trailheads are located near the parking area, offering opportunities to extend your visit and discover more of the park's natural beauty.
When visiting, it's crucial to be prepared for the environment. While the main viewpoint is straightforward, venturing onto the trails means navigating natural terrain. Wearing sturdy, comfortable shoes is essential, and bringing water and snacks is advisable as there are no facilities at The Sinks. This preparation ensures a more enjoyable experience, whether you're just stopping for a quick photo or embarking on a longer exploration.
Social
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