Waterfalls Near Knoxville

Let’s be honest: there is nothing quite like the "main character" feeling of standing at the base of a roaring cascade, misty air on your face, finally escaping the Tennessee humidity. 

Knoxville is perfectly positioned as a "basecamp for adventure." Whether you’re looking for a rugged trek through the Great Smoky Mountains or a stunning roadside view that requires zero hiking boots, these waterfalls near Knoxville are the best ways to find your flow in the 865. 

 

Get Started

After a restful night in your hotel, the aromas of roasted coffee beans and bacon await.  Your hotel might have breakfast, but if it doesn’t or you want a culinary jolt to your day – we’ve got a few suggestions up our sleeves.  Assess the fam, what are they hungry for?  For a classic breakfast with a twist, Scrambled Jakes in Rocky Hill is a great choice.  Allow yourself to be tempted by their ginormous cinnamon rolls and freshly squeezed orange juice, or opt for a healthy choice and try a ‘scrambler’.  An option in the beautiful neighborhood of Sequoyah Hills is The Plaid Apron.  Should you visit in the spring, this is a great choice since you can enjoy a Dogwood Trail on the way.  Find more breakfast options and brunch picks (for the late risers) here, and for the no-nonsense people who just want a coffee, thank you, go here. Pop into RiverSports or Mast General Store for some gear, and you're good to go!

 

Abrams Falls: The Powerhouse (Great Smoky Mountains) 

Don't let the 20-foot height fool you—Abrams Falls isn't about height; it’s about volume. Located in the heart of Cades Cove, this is one of the most iconic waterfalls near Knoxville. The water thunders into a deep-blue pool that’s as photogenic as it is loud. 

The Trek: A 5-mile round-trip hike that’s just challenging enough to make that waterfall view feel earned. 

Pro Tip: This is a popular spot managed by the National Park Service, so try to get to the Cades Cove Loop early for solitude

How long is the hike to Abrams Falls in Cades Cove? 

The hike to Abrams Falls is a 5-mile roundtrip journey (2.5 miles each way). Despite being only 20 feet high, it is the most voluminous waterfall in the Great Smoky Mountains, meaning it carries more water than any other falls in the park. The trail is considered moderate in difficulty. 

 

Grotto Falls: Special Spray (Great Smoky Mountains) 

Accessed via the Trillium Gap Trail, Grotto Falls is a quintessential Appalachian landmark. The trail winds through an old-growth forest of hemlocks and silverbells. 

Unique Feature: This is the only waterfall in the Smokies you can safely walk behind!

Wildlife Tip: Keep an eye out for the LeConte Lodge llama trains that use this trail to haul supplies. 

Technical Detail: The falls are part of the Roaring Fork, a high-gradient stream that drops rapidly toward the Little Pigeon River. 

 

Ramsey Cascades: Large and In Charge (Greenbrier Area) 

For those seeking a more strenuous adventure, Ramsey Cascades is the tallest waterfall in the park at 90 feet. The 8-mile roundtrip hike takes you through a "mature forest" featuring some of the largest tulip trees and black cherries in the United States. 

The Hike: Follows the Ramsey Prong, offering a constant soundtrack of rushing water. Moderately difficult with a steep final climb.

The View: The trail ends at a massive stone ledge where the water drops 90 feet over rock tiers into a small pool. 

Bald River Falls: The Roadside Beauty (Tellico Plains) 

If your idea of a "hike" is walking from the car to the scenic overlook, Bald River Falls is your new best friend. Plummeting 90 feet over a jagged rock face in the Cherokee National Forest, it is a total showstopper. 

You can see the entire 90-foot drop of Bald River Falls from the bridge on Tellico River Road. It is the ultimate "low effort, high reward" destination, making it perfect for families with kids or anyone who skipped leg day. If you're looking to get out and stretch your legs, there's a lovely and often deserted trail accessible from the parking lot that follows Bald River upstream for a few miles through thick greenery and a few fun little rock scrambles.

 

Ozone Falls: The Movie Star (Cumberland Plateau) 

Ever seen Disney’s 1994 live-action The Jungle Book? Then you’ve seen Ozone Falls. This 110-foot plunge waterfall feels like a prehistoric hidden world. 

The Vibe: The water drops into a massive natural "amphitheater" carved out of sandstone. 

Access: It’s a short, slightly rocky scramble from Highway 70. Stand at the top for a dizzying view, or head to the bottom to feel the spray. 

 

Laurel Falls: The Fan Favorite (Great Smoky Mountains) 

Laurel Falls is the superstar of the Great Smoky Mountains. It’s an 80-foot beauty split into an upper and lower section, with a bridge crossing right through the middle. 

Safety Check: The National Park Service warns that while the path is paved, it’s steep and can be slippery. Stay on the bridge—those mossy rocks are a lot more treacherous than they look in photos! 

 

What is the best waterfall near Knoxville for families? 

Grotto Falls is the best choice for families due to its moderate 2.6-mile roundtrip distance and unique "walk-behind" feature. Located on the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, the path is wide and well-maintained, offering children a safe way to experience a 25-foot waterfall from the inside out. 

Planning a trip to see the waterfalls near Knoxville is the perfect way to experience the geological beauty of East Tennessee. Whether you are exploring the Great Smoky Mountains National Park or the rugged Cherokee National Forest, Knoxville serves as the ideal basecamp. This guide breaks down the best trails for every skill level, from easy roadside views to challenging wilderness loops.