this was after a heavy rain
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Margarette Falls

4.8
·480 reviews·Greeneville, United States

A beautiful waterfall hike with scenic creek views and charming mini-falls along a moderately challenging, rocky trail.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

After rainfall

Fuller cascades, more dramatic

CrowdMedium
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this was after a heavy rain

Margarette Falls

Best Time

After rainfall

Fuller cascades, more dramatic

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A beautiful waterfall hike with scenic creek views and charming mini-falls along a moderately challenging, rocky trail.

4.8
(480 reviews)

"The falls are absolutely beautiful and worth the effort to see."

Vertical photo
TIP

🥾 Sturdy Hiking Boots Essential

Jagged rocks & slick spots demand good traction. Don't risk it with sneakers!

💧 Go After Rain for Best Falls

The falls are most impressive when water flow is high.

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Rating

4.8 · 480 reviews

Type

Hiking Area

👶 Good for kids

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Margarette Falls

Margarette Falls

End of the main trail

A stunning cascade at the end of a rewarding hike, worth every step.

Reddit
Mini Waterfalls & Creek Views

Mini Waterfalls & Creek Views

Along the trail

Enjoy numerous smaller falls and scenic creek views on your journey.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Trail Difficulty & Footwear

The hike to Margarette Falls can be challenging, especially after rain. Expect rocky, slick, and uneven terrain. Sturdy hiking boots with excellent traction are a must to navigate the jagged rocks and roots safely. Reddit

Best Conditions & Crowds

While beautiful year-round, Margarette Falls is best seen after rainfall for fuller cascades. Be prepared for other hikers, as it's a popular local spot. Early mornings or weekdays might offer a quieter experience. Reddit

Best Times

When
After rainfall
Why
Fuller cascades, more dramatic
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful hike
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

I was wondering if anyone could help me out. Wife and I want to hike to Margarette Falls in NC, but I can't seem to find the actual miles it takes to hike there. Several online sources give confliting answers. We want to hike it, but not if it's too long.

We just hiked Gabes Mountain Trail to Hen Wallow Falls, and that was 2.1 miles one way, so if it's in that realm at all, then we can definitely do it. Thanks to anyone that can help me with this.

🥾 Sturdy Hiking Boots Essential

Jagged rocks & slick spots demand good traction. Don't risk it with sneakers! Reddit

💧 Go After Rain for Best Falls

The falls are most impressive when water flow is high. Reddit

reddit.com

Have you been to Greeneville? If so, which sites and activities would you suggest?

Eat at Pal's. That's a given. Maybe hike to Margarete Falls.

⚠️ Be Cautious on Rocky Sections

The trail gets tricky near the top; take your time and watch your footing. Reddit

🅿️ Ample Parking Available

The trailhead usually has plenty of space for visitors. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🥾 Sturdy Hiking Boots Essential

Jagged rocks & slick spots demand good traction. Don't risk it with sneakers! Reddit

💧 Go After Rain for Best Falls

The falls are most impressive when water flow is high. Reddit

⚠️ Be Cautious on Rocky Sections

The trail gets tricky near the top; take your time and watch your footing. Reddit

🅿️ Ample Parking Available

The trailhead usually has plenty of space for visitors. Reddit

🗺️ Well-Marked Trail

The out-and-back path is generally easy to follow. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(480 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the stunning beauty of Margarette Falls and the scenic journey with its numerous mini-waterfalls. The hike is considered rewarding, though the rocky and slick terrain requires sturdy footwear and careful navigation. While generally well-marked, some sections can be challenging, especially after rain.

"Hiked in late November. It had rained recently and also was near freezing. With the leaves everywhere it made spots a bit slippery. I'm also not in that good of shape, so the hike up was a bit challenging. I was able to do it without stopping in either direction.

The falls are absolutely beautiful and worth the effort to see. Bring good sturdy hiking boots, as the rocks are jagged and require some level of focus to keep balanced. Despite it being cold, when I was there there was no shortage of other hikers along the trail. It was a nice hike, but not the kind where you can really drift off. It does require some level of focus."

Preston Albert

"A fantastic waterfalls with beautiful creek views and mini waterfalls the whole way up. I will say that while this hike isn't overbearing on elevation gain, there are some slick and very rocky areas that can be dangerous. There is also a creek crossing so be prepared with proper footwear. We managed to make it there with a 1 year old and 3 year old but there were some sketchy spots for young children. The hike is worth it though and the falls are beautiful. The first part starts out with a flat gravel trail and then forks right where it begins to get rocky and slick. Take your time, be cautious, and take in all the beauty. Ample parking at the trailhead too."

Alex Monsrud

"Beautiful trail. Easy at beginning gets a bit rocky as you continue to the falls. Plenty of excellent mini falls on the way. Water crossings that can be a little slippery."

Jeremy “LivelyHiker” Caplinger

What People Like

Beautiful waterfall
Mini falls & creek views
Rewarding hike

What People Dislike

Slick, rocky trail
Challenging terrain

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Margarette Falls is accessed via a well-marked out-and-back trail. While specific mileage can vary, it's generally considered a moderate hike. The trailhead typically has ample parking available. Reddit

The hike starts relatively flat but becomes rocky and slick, especially closer to the falls. While not overly strenuous in terms of elevation gain, the terrain requires focus and good footwear. Reddit

Online sources vary, but many reviews suggest the roundtrip hike is around 2.4 miles. It's important to be prepared for the terrain rather than just the distance. Reddit

Some visitors have managed with young children, but caution is advised due to slippery and rocky sections. It's best to assess your children's abilities and be prepared for some challenging spots. Reddit

Yes, there is a stream crossing that involves hopping on large rocks. While it's often possible to stay dry, wearing waterproof footwear or being prepared for wet feet is recommended. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Margarette Falls is a natural attraction and does not require tickets for entry. Access to the trail and falls is generally free. Reddit

As a natural outdoor area, Margarette Falls does not have set operating hours. It is accessible during daylight hours, but hiking in the dark is not recommended due to trail conditions. Reddit

There is no entrance fee to visit Margarette Falls. It's a public access area for hiking and enjoying nature. Reddit

Yes, Margarette Falls can be visited in winter, but be extra cautious of icy conditions on the trail. The falls may be partially frozen, offering a different kind of beauty. Reddit

The initial part of the trail is a flat gravel path, but it quickly becomes rocky and uneven, making it challenging for those with mobility issues. It is not considered an accessible trail for wheelchairs or strollers beyond the very beginning. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The best way is to hike the trail, taking your time to enjoy the mini-falls and creek views along the way. The main waterfall at the end is the ultimate reward. Reddit

Information regarding restrooms at the trailhead is not consistently available. It's advisable to use facilities before you arrive or be prepared for primitive conditions. Reddit

Expect a beautiful forest setting with a flowing creek, numerous smaller cascades, and the impressive main waterfall at the end of the hike. Reddit

Yes, Margarette Falls and the surrounding creek offer many beautiful photo opportunities, especially with the mini-falls and lush greenery. Reddit

Swimming is generally not recommended at Margarette Falls due to the rocky terrain and strong currents. The focus is on the hiking and viewing experience. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Margarette Falls is a natural area, and dining options are typically found in nearby towns. It's best to pack a picnic or plan to eat before or after your hike. Reddit

While there are no designated picnic areas, you can enjoy a packed meal along the trail or at the trailhead. Remember to pack out all trash. Reddit

Bring plenty of water, especially for the hike. Snacks like trail mix, energy bars, or sandwiches are recommended for sustenance during your visit. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The main waterfall itself is a prime subject. Also, capture the numerous mini-falls and the scenic creek as you hike. The forest setting provides a beautiful backdrop. Reddit

Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer light and fewer crowds. After rainfall, the water flow will be more dramatic, enhancing photographic opportunities. Reddit

A smartphone camera can capture great shots, but a DSLR or mirrorless camera with a wide-angle lens can be beneficial for landscape shots. A tripod can help with long exposures of the water. Reddit

There are no specific photography restrictions mentioned for Margarette Falls. However, always be mindful of other visitors and the natural environment. Reddit

For silky smooth water, use a slower shutter speed. For a more dynamic look, a faster shutter speed can freeze the water's movement. Experiment with aperture for depth of field. Reddit

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