Middle Prong Trail
A serene trail in GSMNP following a creek, famous for its numerous cascades and waterfalls, perfect for easy hikes and photography.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Beat the crowds and secure parking
Middle Prong Trail
Best Time
Beat the crowds and secure parking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene trail in GSMNP following a creek, famous for its numerous cascades and waterfalls, perfect for easy hikes and photography.
"The trail is quiet, long, and serene. The pathway is next to a water body which makes the walk even more energising."
🚗 Parking Tips
Arrive early, especially on weekends, as parking fills up quickly. Weekdays are generally less crowded.
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The path can be slippery near the water. Sturdy hiking shoes are recommended for safety and comfort.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lynn Camp Falls
Middle Prong Trail
A stunning cascade accessible via the Middle Prong Trail, perfect for photography and a refreshing stop.
Cascades Along the Trail
Middle Prong Trail
Numerous smaller waterfalls and cascades line the trail, offering constant natural beauty and soothing sounds.
The Serene Waterway
Middle Prong Trail
The trail follows a tranquil stream, making for an energizing and peaceful walk through the forest.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Waterfalls
Timing is Key for Parking
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Tips
Arrive early, especially on weekends, as parking fills up quickly. Weekdays are generally less crowded.
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The path can be slippery near the water. Sturdy hiking shoes are recommended for safety and comfort.
📸 Photographer's Paradise
Bring your camera! The trail is dotted with small waterfalls and scenic spots, perfect for capturing nature's beauty. 
👨👩👧 Family-Friendly
This trail is a great option for families with children due to its relatively easy terrain and beautiful scenery.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Tips
Arrive early, especially on weekends, as parking fills up quickly. Weekdays are generally less crowded.
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The path can be slippery near the water. Sturdy hiking shoes are recommended for safety and comfort.
📸 Photographer's Paradise
Bring your camera! The trail is dotted with small waterfalls and scenic spots, perfect for capturing nature's beauty.
👨👩👧 Family-Friendly
This trail is a great option for families with children due to its relatively easy terrain and beautiful scenery.
💧 Embrace the Water
The trail runs alongside a beautiful creek. Enjoy the soothing sounds and sights of the water.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors often describe Middle Prong Trail as quiet, serene, and energizing due to its proximity to a water body. While some find it a bit boring and popular with limited parking, others praise it as a great, easy hike suitable for children and nature lovers seeking beautiful cascades.
"The trail is quiet, long, and serene. The pathway is next to a water body which makes the walk even more energising. You can climb the large boulders that run across the stream but one has to be careful as the path would be slippery."
Manasa
"Honestly, this trail is not one I would go to without children. It is somewhat boring yet very popular . hard to park, and you WILL see other people ..wide path and you can go to Indian Flatts Falls but the it doesn't feel like a real hike to me, Spruce Flats Falls is so short but better than this in my opinion and so close to this one. Good for some people who cant/ don't want a more challenging hike, besides the cascades throughout, not much to see besides rock walls. Not a favorite of mine for sure."
jennifer novello
"Great place to hike!"
Lila Wild
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Middle Prong Trail is located at the end of Tremont Road, near the Institute at Tremont. You'll drive up Middle Prong Road past the institute to reach the trailhead.
Yes, you can drive to the trailhead. However, parking can be very limited, especially during peak seasons and weekends.
From Townsend, TN, take Lamar Alexander Parkway towards the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Turn onto Tremont Road and follow it to the end.
Currently, there are no official shuttle services directly to the Middle Prong Trailhead. It's best to drive or arrange private transport.
No, Middle Prong Trail is a separate area within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, located in the Tremont section, not within Cades Cove.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, as of March 2023, a parking tag is required for any vehicle parked for more than 15 minutes within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. You can purchase these online or at visitor centers.
There is no separate entrance fee for Middle Prong Trail itself, but you will need a valid Great Smoky Mountains National Park parking tag to park your vehicle.
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is open year-round, dawn to dusk. The Middle Prong Trail is accessible during these hours.
No, tickets are not required for Middle Prong Trail. You only need a parking tag for your vehicle if you plan to park within the park.
The trail is generally open, but always check the official NPS website for any temporary closures due to weather or maintenance.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The first 1.5 miles of the Middle Prong Trail are considered relatively easy and fairly level, making it suitable for most hikers, including families.
The trail itself continues further, but the section known for its waterfalls is about 1.5 miles out and back. You can extend your hike if desired.
Expect beautiful forests, a serene creek, and numerous cascades and waterfalls, especially in the first mile and a half.
Absolutely! Photographers love this trail for its abundant small waterfalls and scenic water features.
While the water is inviting, swimming is generally discouraged in national parks due to safety concerns and to protect the environment. Enjoy the views instead.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, there are no food services directly on the Middle Prong Trail. It's recommended to pack your own snacks and water.
The nearest towns with dining options are Townsend, Gatlinburg, and Pigeon Forge, which offer a variety of restaurants.
Picnicking is allowed in designated areas within the national park, but there are no specific picnic facilities directly at the Middle Prong Trailhead. Pack out all trash.
Bring plenty of water and snacks, especially if you plan to hike for an extended period.
📸 📸 Photography
The first 1.5 miles are packed with waterfalls and cascades, particularly Lynn Camp Falls. The entire trail offers scenic water views.
Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer light, but the waterfalls are beautiful throughout the day. Consider the weather for dramatic shots.
For personal photography, no special permit is required. However, commercial photography or videography may require a permit from the park service.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the cascades, and a tripod can help with long exposures for silky water effects. A polarizing filter can reduce glare.
The trail itself offers numerous viewpoints along the creek. Lynn Camp Falls is a particularly popular spot for photos.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to pack plenty of snacks and water, and ensure everyone wears sturdy, non-slip shoes, as the areas near the water can be wet and slippery. The serene environment and the sound of the running water can also be very calming for children.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1To maximize your photographic opportunities, consider visiting during the 'golden hours' of early morning or late afternoon for softer light. A tripod can be invaluable for achieving silky smooth water effects in your long exposures. Don't forget a wide-angle lens to capture the full scope of the cascades and the surrounding forest.
🚶♀️ Casual Hikers & Nature Lovers
+1You'll be rewarded with numerous small waterfalls and cascades along the way, providing plenty of picturesque moments. It's a great trail for unwinding and enjoying the natural beauty of the Smokies at a leisurely pace.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of Waterfalls
+2When exploring the waterfalls, remember that the rocks around them can be slippery. While some visitors enjoy climbing on the large boulders that cross the stream, caution is advised. The natural beauty of these water features is a significant draw, providing a refreshing and invigorating experience for all who visit.
For those interested in capturing the magic of these falls, consider visiting during different times of the day to experience varying light conditions. Early mornings and late afternoons often provide softer, more dramatic lighting. The consistent presence of water makes this trail a beautiful subject year-round.
+1Navigating the Trail and Parking
However, a common challenge highlighted by visitors is parking. The trailhead parking area can fill up quickly, particularly on weekends and during peak tourist seasons. To ensure a spot, it's highly recommended to arrive early in the morning or consider visiting on a weekday. This advice is frequently echoed by those who have experienced the parking crunch firsthand.
While the main waterfall section is about 1.5 miles out and back, the trail itself extends further for those who wish to continue their exploration. This flexibility allows visitors to tailor their hike to their energy levels and time constraints. Always be mindful of the trail conditions, especially near water, as they can be slippery.
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