Cataract Falls: Nature's Majestic Cascade in the Smokies

Getting There

• Car

  From Gatlinburg, TN, take US-441 S (also known as the Parkway) towards the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Continue on US-441 S for about 6 miles. Look for the entrance to the park on your left. Once inside the park, continue on the Newfound Gap Road (US-441) for about 1.5 miles. Turn right onto Cove Mountain Trail. After a short distance, you will find the parking area for the trailhead to Cataract Falls. Parking is free, but be sure to adhere to any regulations or signage in the area.

• Public Transportation

  If you are using public transportation, first take a shuttle or taxi service from your location in Gatlinburg to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The Gatlinburg Trolley offers a convenient option, with routes that can take you to the park entrance. Once you arrive at the park entrance, you will need to either walk or arrange a taxi to take you to Cove Mountain Trail. Walking from the entrance to the trailhead is approximately 1.5 miles, so plan accordingly. Please note that shuttle services may not operate during all seasons, so check the schedule ahead of time.

• Hiking

  If you are already in the park and near the trail, you can reach Cataract Falls by hiking. From the parking area on Cove Mountain Trail, the hike to the falls is about 0.6 miles one-way. The trail is relatively easy and well-marked. Follow the trail signs leading to Cataract Falls. As you hike, enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Smoky Mountains. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and carry water, especially if hiking during warmer months.