Discover the Majestic Beauty of Ramsey Cascades
Experience the towering Ramsey Cascades, the highest waterfall in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, a paradise for hikers and nature lovers.
Ramsey Cascades, the tallest waterfall in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, offers breathtaking views and a serene hiking experience. A must-visit for nature lovers and adventurers alike, it beckons with its lush landscapes and cascading waters.
A brief summary to Ramsey Cascades
- Gatlinburg, Tennessee, 37738, US
- Visit website
Local tips
- Start your hike early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the tranquility of nature.
- Check weather conditions before your visit, as trails can be slippery after rain.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning views along the way and at the waterfall.
- Pack snacks and plenty of water, as there are no facilities along the trail.
- Respect wildlife and maintain a safe distance if you encounter animals along the trail.
Getting There
-
Car
If you are driving to Ramsey Cascades, start by heading to Gatlinburg, TN, which is the closest major town. From Gatlinburg, take US-441 North (also known as the Parkway) for about 6 miles. Look for the signs for the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Turn onto E. Parkway (US-441) and continue for approximately 3 miles. You will then see the entrance to the national park. After entering the park, drive for about 8 miles until you reach the Greenbrier entrance. Turn left onto the Ramsey Cascades Road (this road is not paved but is accessible by most vehicles). Follow this road for about 4 miles to the Ramsey Cascades trailhead parking area. There is no fee for parking, but be sure to arrive early as the parking lot can fill up quickly.
-
Public Transportation + Hiking
If you are using public transportation, your best option is to take a shuttle from Gatlinburg to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Look for local shuttle services that offer routes to the park. Once you arrive at the park, you will need to take the shuttle to the Greenbrier area. From there, you will need to hike approximately 4 miles on the Ramsey Cascades Trail to reach the falls. This trail is moderately strenuous, so wear appropriate hiking shoes and bring water. The shuttle service may have a fee, typically around $15-$30, depending on the provider.
-
Biking
For those who prefer biking, you can cycle from Gatlinburg to the Greenbrier entrance of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Follow the same route as if you were driving, but be cautious on the road as it can be busy. Once you reach the Greenbrier entrance, you can lock your bike at the trailhead parking area and continue on foot. The 4-mile hike to Ramsey Cascades will provide a great workout and beautiful views. Note that there are no bike rental services directly at the park, so you will need to bring your own bike.
Discover more about Ramsey Cascades
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Old Black
4.1 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Old Black, a stunning mountain peak in Tennessee perfect for outdoor adventures and nature exploration.
Messer Cabin
9.3 km
Experience the allure of the 1800s at Messer Cabin, a historical treasure on Porters Creek Trail in Gatlinburg, surrounded by the stunning Great Smoky Mountains.
Homer / Jim Bales Barn
15.0 km
Explore the historic Jim Bales Barn on the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, a charming glimpse into the agricultural past of the Great Smoky Mountains.
Alf Reagan House
15.5 km
Discover the Alf Reagan House, a historic gem in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, where rich heritage meets breathtaking natural beauty.
Great Smoky Mountains
15.8 km
Explore the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, a nature preserve boasting stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural history in North Carolina.
Roaring Fork Interpretive Marker 1 Overlook
16.2 km
Experience the serene beauty and cultural history at Roaring Fork Interpretive Marker 1 Overlook in the Great Smoky Mountains.
Big Creek Trailhead
17.8 km
Explore the breathtaking Big Creek Trailhead in the Great Smoky Mountains, where nature, adventure, and scenic beauty await every visitor.
Salt & Pepper Shaker Museum
18.3 km
Explore the whimsical Salt & Pepper Shaker Museum in Gatlinburg, featuring over 20,000 unique shakers that celebrate creativity and artistry.
Chimney Tops
18.3 km
Experience the breathtaking views and challenging hikes at Chimney Tops in the Great Smoky Mountains, a premier destination for nature lovers and adventurers.
Astra Lumina
18.3 km
Discover the enchanting Astra Lumina in Gatlinburg, a mesmerizing outdoor light show that illuminates the night sky with artistic brilliance.
Treetop Skywalk at Anakeesta
18.4 km
Discover the breathtaking Treetop Skywalk at Anakeesta, an unforgettable journey through the treetops of the Smoky Mountains.
World Famous Smokies Tattoo
18.6 km
Experience exceptional artistry at World Famous Smokies Tattoo in Gatlinburg, where every tattoo tells a story and creativity knows no bounds.
Gatlinburg Chateau
18.8 km
Discover the charm of Gatlinburg Chateau, your cozy home in the Smokies, perfect for relaxation and adventure in Tennessee's stunning mountain landscape.
Chimneys Picnic Area
18.9 km
Discover the serene beauty of Chimneys Picnic Area in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, a perfect spot for picnics and outdoor adventures.
Ghost Walk of Gatlinburg
19.0 km
Discover the haunted history of Gatlinburg through captivating stories and eerie tales on the Ghost Walk of Gatlinburg. A thrilling experience awaits!
Unmissable attractions to see
A Walk in the Woods
6.4 km
Discover the Great Smoky Mountains with A Walk in the Woods – your gateway to unforgettable hiking adventures and breathtaking natural beauty in Gatlinburg.
CLIMB Works Smoky Mountains - Zipline Tour
6.5 km
Embark on a breathtaking zipline adventure in the Smoky Mountains, soaring above treetops with stunning views at CLIMB Works.
Porters Creek Trail
9.4 km
Explore the enchanting Porters Creek Trail in Tennessee, where lush landscapes and rich wildlife await your discovery in the heart of nature.
Charlies Bunion
10.1 km
Explore Charlies Bunion in the Great Smoky Mountains, where breathtaking views and serene trails await outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Emert's Cove Covered Bridge
11.3 km
Experience the historical beauty of Emert's Cove Covered Bridge, a picturesque destination nestled in the Smoky Mountains of Sevierville, Tennessee.
Mt Le Conte
13.8 km
Experience breathtaking views and serene hikes at Mount Le Conte, a stunning peak in the heart of the Smoky Mountains, Tennessee.
Mt Cammerer
14.0 km
Discover the breathtaking heights of Mt. Cammerer, a premier destination for hiking enthusiasts and nature lovers in North Carolina's stunning landscapes.
Grotto Falls
14.0 km
Explore the breathtaking Grotto Falls in the Great Smoky Mountains, a unique hiking destination offering stunning views and an unforgettable nature experience.
Arch Rock
14.7 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Arch Rock in the Great Smoky Mountains, a must-see natural wonder for all nature lovers.
Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community
14.7 km
Discover the vibrant artistry and rich craftsmanship of the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community in Gatlinburg, TN, a must-visit for art lovers.
Alum Cave Trail
14.9 km
Discover the scenic beauty and adventure of Alum Cave Trail in Tennessee's Great Smoky Mountains, a must-visit for nature lovers and hikers.
Cliff Branch Falls
14.9 km
Explore Cliff Branch Falls, a breathtaking waterfall in North Carolina that offers stunning scenery and a tranquil escape for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Ben Morton Overlook
15.1 km
Experience the stunning beauty of the Smoky Mountains at Ben Morton Overlook, a top scenic spot in Gatlinburg, TN, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
Grotto Falls Parking
15.1 km
Explore the scenic Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail in Gatlinburg, TN, featuring stunning waterfalls, diverse wildlife, and breathtaking views.
Alex Cole Cabin
15.1 km
Discover the Alex Cole Cabin, a historic site nestled in the scenic Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, showcasing Appalachian heritage and natural beauty.
Essential places to dine
Delauder's BBQ
13.2 km
Experience authentic Southern barbecue at Delauder's BBQ in Gatlinburg – where flavor meets tradition!
Wild Plum Tea Room
13.2 km
Discover the charm of Wild Plum Tea Room in Gatlinburg - where delightful American cuisine meets vegan-friendly options amidst scenic beauty.
Split Rail Eats
14.3 km
Experience delectable American cuisine at Split Rail Eats in Gatlinburg - where flavor meets hospitality amidst breathtaking mountain views.
Crystelle Creek Restaurant
14.3 km
Experience culinary excellence at Crystelle Creek Restaurant in Gatlinburg - where delicious steak meets breathtaking mountain views.
Red Oak Bistro
14.7 km
Discover Red Oak Bistro in Gatlinburg - where exquisite flavors meet a cozy ambiance in the heart of Tennessee's mountain paradise.
Timbers Log Cabin Restaurant
14.9 km
Experience Southern comfort food at its finest at Timbers Log Cabin Restaurant in Gatlinburg - where every meal feels like home.
Three Jimmy's Good Time Eatery
15.5 km
Discover the vibrant flavors and lively atmosphere at Three Jimmy's Good Time Eatery in Gatlinburg – where every meal is an unforgettable experience.
Gatlinburg
15.6 km
Discover Gatlinburg: A charming mountain town famous for gourmet hamburgers and breathtaking views in the heart of Tennessee.
Mama's Chicken Kitchen
16.2 km
Discover Southern comfort at Mama's Chicken Kitchen in Gatlinburg—where every bite of fried chicken feels like home.
The Greenbrier Restaurant
16.8 km
Experience fine dining at The Greenbrier Restaurant in Gatlinburg - where exceptional steaks and an extensive wine selection await you.
LeConte Tapas & Grill
17.9 km
Experience unique global flavors at LeConte Tapas & Grill in Gatlinburg – where every dish tells a delicious story amidst breathtaking mountain views.
Alamo Steakhouse
18.0 km
Discover the ultimate steak experience at Alamo Steakhouse in Gatlinburg – where quality meets comfort in every bite.
Hungry Bear BBQ
18.3 km
Experience authentic Southern barbecue at Hungry Bear BBQ in Gatlinburg - where smoky flavors meet warm hospitality.
Cliff Top Restaurant at Anakeesta
18.5 km
Experience unforgettable dining at Cliff Top Restaurant with stunning mountain views and delicious American cuisine in Gatlinburg.
Pizzeria of Gatlinburg
18.6 km
Discover the Pizzeria of Gatlinburg - where every pizza is crafted with love amidst the stunning backdrop of Tennessee's Smoky Mountains.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Smokies Edge
13.1 km
Explore Smokies Edge for unique gifts and local crafts that celebrate the spirit of Gatlinburg and the Great Smoky Mountains.
The Shack @Glades
14.9 km
Discover unique gifts, handcrafted Amish furniture, and charming antiques at The Shack @Glades in Gatlinburg, a must-visit treasure for tourists.
Perfect Essentials
14.9 km
Explore Perfect Essentials in Gatlinburg, TN, for unique handmade gifts, local art, and charming home goods that capture the essence of local craftsmanship.
Kountry Antics
14.9 km
Discover unique handcrafted gifts and local treasures at Kountry Antics, a charming gift shop in Gatlinburg, TN.
Simply Savory Gifts & Gourmet
15.2 km
Discover a gourmet paradise at Simply Savory Gifts & Gourmet in Gatlinburg, where local flavors meet unique gifts for every palate.
The Smoky Mountain Mercantile
15.2 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts at The Smoky Mountain Mercantile, your one-stop shop for souvenirs in Gatlinburg, Tennessee.
Apple Annie's Sip N Shop
15.5 km
Explore unique gifts and handcrafted items at Apple Annie's Sip N Shop, a charming destination in Gatlinburg, TN, perfect for tourists seeking local treasures.
Rocky Flats Pottery & Soap
15.6 km
Discover the charm of handcrafted pottery and artisanal soaps at Rocky Flats Pottery & Soap in Gatlinburg, the perfect stop for unique souvenirs.
The Trump Store Gatlinburg
19.0 km
Explore The Trump Store Gatlinburg for unique gifts and American memorabilia in the heart of Tennessee's stunning Smoky Mountains.
Gazebo
19.1 km
Explore Gatlinburg's Gazebo Gift Shop for unique souvenirs, local crafts, and a taste of Smoky Mountain charm.
Crusin The Past
19.3 km
Explore the unique treasures of Crusin The Past in Gatlinburg, where local crafts and nostalgic gifts come together in a charming shopping experience.
Mountain Mall
19.3 km
Explore the vibrant Mountain Mall in Gatlinburg, where shopping meets local culture and delicious dining experiences await.
Gatlinburg Elegance
19.3 km
Discover unique treasures that capture the charm of Gatlinburg at Gatlinburg Elegance, a boutique filled with local art and stylish finds.
Buckboard Too
19.3 km
Discover unique collectibles and vintage treasures at Buckboard Too in Gatlinburg, TN, where every item tells a story.
Gifts For Memories
19.3 km
Explore Gatlinburg's favorite destination for toys, collectibles, and memorable souvenirs that celebrate the spirit of your adventure.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Rampant Lion
14.8 km
Experience a slice of Britain in Gatlinburg at The Rampant Lion, where traditional cuisine meets a cozy pub atmosphere.
Sugarland s
19.0 km
Discover the lively spirit of Gatlinburg at Sugarlands, where great drinks and live music create unforgettable memories in the Smoky Mountains.
Tower Bar at Anakeesta
19.0 km
Discover Tower Bar at Anakeesta - a charming bar in Gatlinburg offering breathtaking views, exquisite drinks, and the essence of Southern hospitality.
Gatlinburg Brewing Company
19.0 km
Discover the heart of craft brewing at Gatlinburg Brewing Company, where unique flavors and a cozy atmosphere await every beer lover.
SHINE SHACK
19.1 km
Experience vibrant nightlife at SHINE SHACK in Gatlinburg, where local brews and creative cocktails create memorable moments.
License to Chill Bar
19.1 km
Discover the vibrant flavors and relaxed ambiance of License to Chill Bar in Gatlinburg, where every meal feels like a mini-vacation.
Daiquiri Shack & Grill Margaritaville
19.1 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of American cuisine and refreshing cocktails at Daiquiri Shack & Grill Margaritaville in Gatlinburg.
The Bar At The Top Of The World
19.1 km
Discover breathtaking views and a lively atmosphere at The Bar At The Top Of The World in Gatlinburg, a perfect retreat for tourists.
Boudicca's Celtic Pub
19.4 km
Discover the heart of Celtic culture at Boudicca's Celtic Pub, where traditional dishes and live music create an unforgettable experience in Gatlinburg.
Old smokey barrelhouse
19.4 km
Discover the heart of Gatlinburg at Old Smokey Barrelhouse, where local spirits and Southern hospitality come together in a vibrant atmosphere.
Shamrock Pub
19.7 km
Enjoy a vibrant dining experience at Shamrock Pub in Gatlinburg, where great food, drinks, and friendly vibes await.
Dude's Daiquiris
19.8 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and refreshing flavors at Dude's Daiquiris, Gatlinburg's ultimate bar destination for tourists.
Salty Bear
20.1 km
Discover a taste of Gatlinburg at Salty Bear, where delicious grilled dishes meet a cozy atmosphere in the heart of the Smokies.
Mr. Jerry's Sit-N-Sip Refreshments
23.0 km
Experience the joy of delicious snacks and refreshing drinks at Mr. Jerry's Sit-N-Sip, your perfect break in Dollywood theme park.
Native Brews Tap & Grill
23.2 km
Experience the best of Cherokee dining at Native Brews Tap & Grill, where local flavors and a relaxed atmosphere come together.
