Nature's Masterpiece: The Ramsey Cascades
Discover the breathtaking Ramsey Cascades, the tallest waterfall in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, a must-see for every nature lover.
Explore the breathtaking Ramsey Cascades, the tallest waterfall in the Great Smoky Mountains, where nature’s beauty is on full display. A hike to the cascades offers stunning views of lush forests and diverse wildlife, making it a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
A brief summary to Ramsey Cascades
- Gatlinburg, Tennessee, 37738, US
- Visit website
Local tips
- Arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful hike.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning scenery, especially at the waterfall.
- Wear sturdy hiking boots, as the trail can be rocky and steep in some areas.
- Pack enough water and snacks to stay energized during the hike.
- Check the weather forecast before your visit, as rain can make the trail slippery.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving from Gatlinburg, TN, take US-441 N (The Parkway) out of downtown Gatlinburg. Continue on US-441 N for about 7 miles. You will then turn left onto the Greenbrier Road (look for the sign for Greenbrier Campground). Follow Greenbrier Road for approximately 5 miles until you reach the Ramsey Cascades trailhead parking area. Note that this road is narrow and winding, so drive carefully. There is no parking fee at the trailhead, but ensure you arrive early as the parking lot can fill up quickly.
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Public Transportation to Car Rental
If you are relying on public transportation, first take a bus to Gatlinburg. The Gatlinburg Trolley offers various routes around the city. Once in Gatlinburg, you can rent a car from local rental services such as Enterprise or Hertz. After renting a car, follow the driving directions provided above to reach Ramsey Cascades.
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Hiking
After parking at the Ramsey Cascades trailhead, prepare for a moderately strenuous hike. The trail is approximately 4 miles one way, leading you through beautiful forests and along streams. Make sure you have proper hiking gear, enough water, and snacks. The hike will take around 2 to 3 hours one way, so plan your visit accordingly to ensure you return before dark.
Discover more about Ramsey Cascades
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Messer Cabin
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Homer / Jim Bales Barn
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Great Smoky Mountains
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Roaring Fork Interpretive Marker 1 Overlook
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Big Creek Trailhead
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Salt & Pepper Shaker Museum
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Porters Creek Trail
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Mt Le Conte
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Grotto Falls
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Alum Cave Trail
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Cliff Branch Falls
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Ben Morton Overlook
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Grotto Falls Parking
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Alex Cole Cabin
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Essential places to dine
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Wild Plum Tea Room
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Split Rail Eats
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Timbers Log Cabin Restaurant
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Gatlinburg
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Mama's Chicken Kitchen
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The Greenbrier Restaurant
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LeConte Tapas & Grill
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Alamo Steakhouse
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Hungry Bear BBQ
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Cliff Top Restaurant at Anakeesta
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Pizzeria of Gatlinburg
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Perfect Essentials
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