Ramsey Cascades Trail
Hike through ancient forests to Tennessee's tallest waterfall, a challenging but rewarding 8-mile journey.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Beat the crowds & heat
Ramsey Cascades Trail
Best Time
Beat the crowds & heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike through ancient forests to Tennessee's tallest waterfall, a challenging but rewarding 8-mile journey.
"The falls are AMAZING and worth every step."
🥾 Wear Sturdy Hiking Boots
The trail is challenging with constant incline and potential water crossings. Good footwear is essential! [^I6, Reviews]
💧 Pack Plenty of Water & Snacks
This is an 8-mile hike with significant elevation gain. Stay hydrated and fueled! [^I7, Reviews]
Quick Facts
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ramsey Cascades Waterfall
End of the trail
The tallest waterfall in the Smokies, plunging 100 feet over rock outcroppings. A truly spectacular sight!
Old-Growth Forest
Along the trail
Hike through one of the largest remaining old-growth forests in the Smokies, with giant trees and lush greenery.
Scenic Footbridges
Along the trail
Cross several picturesque footbridges over streams and rivers, adding to the trail's charm.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Prepare for a Challenging Ascent
+2Check Trail Status & Parking
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Wear Sturdy Hiking Boots
The trail is challenging with constant incline and potential water crossings. Good footwear is essential! [^I6, Reviews]
💧 Pack Plenty of Water & Snacks
This is an 8-mile hike with significant elevation gain. Stay hydrated and fueled! [^I7, Reviews]
⚠️ Check Trail Status
Trail closures due to flood damage can occur. Always verify conditions with NPS before heading out. [^I10, Reviews]
🚶♀️ Consider Hiking Poles
Poles can provide extra stability on steep sections and water crossings. [^R1, Reviews]
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Wear Sturdy Hiking Boots
The trail is challenging with constant incline and potential water crossings. Good footwear is essential! [^I6, Reviews]
💧 Pack Plenty of Water & Snacks
This is an 8-mile hike with significant elevation gain. Stay hydrated and fueled! [^I7, Reviews]
⚠️ Check Trail Status
Trail closures due to flood damage can occur. Always verify conditions with NPS before heading out. [^I10, Reviews]
🚶♀️ Consider Hiking Poles
Poles can provide extra stability on steep sections and water crossings. [^R1, Reviews]
🐸 Look for Salamanders
Small salamanders can often be found in the pool at the base of the waterfall.
🐻 Be Bear Aware
You might encounter wildlife, including black bears. Stay calm and give them space. [Reviews]
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning 100-foot Ramsey Cascades waterfall, calling it the highlight of this challenging 8-mile hike. The journey through the old-growth forest and across scenic bridges is also highly praised. However, be prepared for a strenuous, continuous uphill climb that makes this trail unsuitable for beginners.
"Man, what a hike! Definitely go early in the morning to get good parking and an uncrowded trail—my husband and I went around 7:30am and it was PERFECT! Nice shade on the trail so heat was not a huge issue. Continuous incline with some very steep areas, so definitely not for the inexperienced hiker. Probably took us a decent 1 hr & 45 minutes to 2 hours to hike up. GORGEOUS waterfall (and a quiet, bonus pool we explored on the trail) made it all worth it ☀️"
Rebecca DeYoung
"As of 11/18/2024, the trail is back open.
This trail is currently closed from flood damage. Check the NPS site for updated information.
This is one of my favorite waterfall hikes in the Smokies. Know that the time of year and amount of recent rainfall will affect the volume of any of the waterfalls in the park.
During this 8 mile round-trip hike, you'll have a total elevation gain of over 2,000 feet and have numerous water crossings - some with man-made foot bridges, some without. I'd recommend being prepared for the possibility of getting wet. So far, I've been fortunate. I also find that hiking poles are great for giving added stability when needed.
You will hike through a large, beautiful, old growth forest (one of the largest left in the Smokies). On one of my hikes back out, I did cross paths with a black bear. Luckily, he was more interested in eating and I worked to move along and stay out of his way.
The last time I hiked this it was quite warm out but when I reached the falls, it was like having my own personal air conditioning. The force and cold temperature of the water actually made me a little cold. It was wonderful. Great time to enjoy a snack or lunch before heading back out."
Karen P
"This was a difficult hike. Should you choose to take it on, make sure you're prepared with food and hydration. This hike gets progressively more difficult as you continue on. The falls are AMAZING and worth every step."
Erick Day
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Ramsey Cascades Trail is located in the Cosby area of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, near Gatlinburg, TN. Access typically involves driving to the trailhead. Parking can be limited, so arriving early is highly recommended.
Parking is available at the trailhead, but it fills up quickly, especially on weekends and during peak seasons. Arriving by 7:30 AM is often suggested to secure a spot. [Reviews]
Public transportation options directly to the Ramsey Cascades Trailhead are generally not available. It's best to have your own vehicle or arrange for a ride.
The trail is well-marked, but it's always a good idea to have a map of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Many hikers find GPS apps on their phones helpful as well.
Yes, a parking tag is required for all vehicles parking anywhere within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. These can be purchased online, at visitor centers, or at some local businesses. [Reviews]
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, you do not need a specific ticket for the Ramsey Cascades Trail itself. However, a parking tag is required for your vehicle to enter the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. [Reviews]
The trail is generally open during daylight hours, but specific access can be limited due to trail maintenance or weather. Always check the official NPS website for the most current information on trail status and any temporary closures. [^I10, Reviews]
The cost is for the required parking tag for the national park. Daily, weekly, and annual passes are available. [Reviews]
Yes, parking passes can often be purchased at the park itself, though buying online or in advance is recommended to save time. [Reviews]
While the park is generally open year-round, the Ramsey Cascades Trail can be subject to closures due to weather, flood damage, or maintenance. It's crucial to check the NPS website for current conditions. [Reviews]
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The roundtrip hike is 8 miles and typically takes about 4 to 5 hours to complete, depending on your pace and how long you spend at the falls. [^I10, Reviews]
Yes, it's considered a difficult hike due to the continuous 2,000+ feet of elevation gain over 4 miles one way. It's not recommended for beginners. [^I11, Reviews]
Expect a steady uphill climb through a beautiful old-growth forest, with several stream crossings, some via footbridges. The reward is the stunning 100-foot waterfall. [^I6, ^I12, Reviews]
Restroom facilities may be limited or closed depending on the season and park operations. It's advisable to use facilities before arriving at the trailhead if possible. [Reviews]
It can get crowded, especially during peak times. Arriving early in the morning is the best way to experience a less crowded trail and waterfall. [^I9, Reviews]
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no dining facilities directly at the Ramsey Cascades Trailhead. You'll need to bring your own food and drinks for the hike. Restaurants and eateries are available in nearby Gatlinburg. [Reviews]
Yes, you can enjoy a picnic at the waterfall or along the trail. Remember to pack out all your trash to keep the park clean. [Reviews]
Bring plenty of water, high-energy snacks like trail mix, granola bars, and fruit. A packed lunch is also a good idea for enjoying at the falls. [^I7, Reviews]
There are no potable water sources along the Ramsey Cascades Trail. You must carry all the water you will need for the 8-mile roundtrip hike. [Reviews]
The closest town with a wide selection of restaurants is Gatlinburg, TN, which offers various dining options from casual to sit-down meals.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning light can be beautiful, offering softer light and fewer crowds. Midday can be harsh, but the mist from the falls can create interesting effects. [^I3, Reviews]
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the waterfall and forest. A tripod can help with long exposures, especially if it's overcast. Protect your gear from mist.
Absolutely! The old-growth forest, scenic bridges, and rushing streams offer numerous picturesque moments before you even reach the main waterfall. [^I12, Reviews]
Use a slower shutter speed to create a silky, flowing effect of the water. Be prepared for mist, which can affect your lens.
While the trail is challenging, it's generally safe if you are careful. Ensure your gear is protected in a sturdy, waterproof bag. Be aware of your surroundings, especially if encountering wildlife. [Reviews]
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