The Smoky Mountains are among the best camping destinations in the country, due to their natural beauty, temperate climate, and more. For instance, there are several Smoky Mountain waterfalls located throughout the area that offer gorgeous sights for visitors! Some of these waterfalls are just a short distance from the road, making for easy access, while others are the rewards at the end of longer hikes. Today, we are going to share some of the Smoky Mountain waterfalls you won’t want to miss on your next trip to the area:

1. Rainbow Falls

First, we have Rainbow Falls, which is a beautiful and unique waterfall that you will love visiting. When you visit in the mid-afternoon, you will have a chance to see the rainbow shimmer that is created in the mist from the waterfall, which is what gives Rainbow Falls its name. The hike to Rainbow Falls is a 5.4-mile roundtrip and is considered moderately difficult.

2. Meigs Falls

Next up, we have Meigs Falls, which is an easy waterfall to view, as you can see it from a roadside pull-off! This can be a great choice for families with young kids, those with difficulty traversing the mountain terrain, and anyone else looking to see a waterfall without taking a long hike.

3. Grotto Falls

Grotto Falls is another of the Smoky Mountain waterfalls that you can hike to, though this is a relatively short and easy trail that most hikers can enjoy, compared to other longer hikes on this list. Along the hike to Grotto Falls, you will see an old growth forest, and once you reach the waterfall itself, you can actually walk around the back and see the waterfall from behind! This is the only waterfall in the Smoky Mountains where visitors are permitted to do this, which makes it a cool and unique experience.

4. The Sinks

Although it is the smallest of the Smoky Mountain waterfalls we are covering, The Sinks has the advantage of being located right along a road, and having a parking area just a short distance away. This makes it a convenient stop for those traveling through the area and, like Meigs Falls, is an ideal spot for those looking to take in waterfall views without having to hike!

5. Ramsey Cascades

Finally, we have Ramsey Cascades, which is the most challenging of the Smoky Mountain waterfalls on this list to reach, but those who choose to complete the 8-mile roundtrip hike will be rewarded with spectacular views of the tallest waterfall in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, at 100 feet tall! Make sure to wear sturdy hiking shoes, bring plenty of drinking water, and allow yourself plenty of time to complete the hike (5-7 hours are recommended).

When you check out some of these incredible Smoky Mountain waterfalls, you are sure to discover some amazing sights and have a great time soaking in the natural beauty of the area. Plus, if you are looking for even more places to explore during your camping trip, you can learn about some of the top spots for stunning Smoky Mountain views right here! There are so many ways to have a blast when you join us for a camping trip in the Smokies.