Quick Facts
The Crown Jewel of Smoky Mountain Waterfalls
Ramsey Cascades holds the prestigious distinction of being the tallest waterfall in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The magnificent 100-foot cascade tumbles over massive boulders in a spectacular display of power and natural beauty. Getting there requires significant effort - an 8-mile round trip with over 2,300 feet of elevation gain - but the journey is every bit as rewarding as the destination itself.
The trail to Ramsey Cascades passes through one of the finest remaining old-growth forests in the entire eastern United States. Massive tulip trees, eastern hemlocks, and yellow birches tower overhead, some measuring over 20 feet in circumference and hundreds of years old. These are trees that were saplings when European settlers first arrived in the Appalachians, survivors of the extensive logging that claimed most of the region's virgin forests.
Yes, this hike is challenging. Yes, it takes most of a day. But when you finally reach the thundering 100-foot cascade after walking through ancient forest, you will understand why so many hikers consider Ramsey Cascades the best waterfall hike in the entire park. Come prepared, start early, and take your time to fully appreciate the experience.
Getting There via Greenbrier
The Ramsey Cascades trailhead is located at the end of Greenbrier Road, which turns off US-321 approximately 6 miles east of Gatlinburg. After turning onto Greenbrier Road, drive 3 miles on this narrow, winding road to the parking area at the road's end. The road follows the Middle Prong of the Little Pigeon River and passes through beautiful forest.
Approx drive time from our cabins: 25 minutes. The Greenbrier entrance to the park is one of the less crowded access points, offering a more peaceful experience than the main Gatlinburg entrances.
Road Conditions and Closures
Greenbrier Road can be closed temporarily during high water events or winter weather. The road is narrow with limited passing opportunities. Check current conditions with the National Park Service before making the drive, especially after heavy rainfall.
Parking Information
- Lot size: Small parking area that fills by mid-morning on weekends during peak season
- Parking permit: Required from March through November ($5 per day or $40 per year)
- Alternative: Arrive early (by 8 AM) or visit on weekdays for easier parking
- Facilities: Vault toilets available at the trailhead
Trail Description
The trail to Ramsey Cascades can be divided into two distinct sections, each with its own character and challenges:
First 2 Miles: The Gentle Introduction
The first section of the trail follows an old logging road along the Middle Prong of the Little Pigeon River. The grade is gentle and the path wide, offering easy walking through beautiful forest. You will cross several bridges over tributary streams and enjoy the sounds of the river accompanying you. This section gives little warning of the challenging terrain ahead - enjoy the easy miles while you have them.
Miles 2 to 4: The True Mountain Trail
At the 2-mile mark, the trail leaves the old roadbed and becomes a true mountain trail. The path narrows significantly, the grade steepens, and the surface becomes increasingly rocky and rooty. You will cross Ramsey Prong multiple times on log bridges. This is where the old-growth forest becomes truly impressive - look up to see the massive trees that make this hike special. The largest specimens are found in this section.
The final approach to the falls involves navigating over large boulders and through sections that can be wet and slippery year-round from spray and seeping water. Take your time on this section and watch your footing carefully.
Planning an Epic Hiking Day?
Our Gatlinburg cabins are perfectly located for early morning trailhead access. Start your adventure early and return to hot tub relaxation!
Check Cabin AvailabilityThe Remarkable Old-Growth Forest
One of the most remarkable aspects of the Ramsey Cascades hike is the opportunity to walk through genuine old-growth forest. You will pass trees that were saplings when Columbus arrived in the Americas - living witnesses to 500 years of American history:
- Tulip poplars: Some measure over 20 feet in circumference and tower 150 feet into the canopy
- Eastern hemlocks: Many of these ancient trees have been protected through treatment efforts against the hemlock woolly adelgid
- Yellow birches: Distinctive peeling golden bark marks these impressive specimens
- Fraser magnolias: Enormous leaves up to 20 inches long make these trees unmistakable
- Silverbell trees: Beautiful white flowers in spring on trees that can reach 100 feet
Take time to appreciate this forest. So little of the eastern old-growth forest remains that walking through it is genuinely a rare privilege. The scale is difficult to convey in photographs - you must stand beneath these giants to truly understand their majesty.
At the Falls
Ramsey Cascades drops 100 feet over massive boulders, splitting into multiple streams that reunite and separate as they tumble down the rock face. The falls are most impressive after significant rainfall, when the water volume increases dramatically and the cascade becomes a thundering display of natural power.
There is a small viewing area at the base of the falls, but space is limited and the rocks are perpetually wet and slippery. Exercise extreme caution when approaching the falls. Swimming is not permitted and would be dangerous due to the powerful water flow and cold temperatures.
The best light for photographing the falls typically occurs in the afternoon when the sun angles into the gorge. However, the hike is best started early morning, so plan accordingly. A tripod and slow shutter speed (1/4 second or longer) will create the silky water effect that makes waterfall photos spectacular.
What to Bring
This is an all-day hike through challenging terrain. Come prepared:
- Water: At least 3 liters per person. There are stream crossings but do not drink untreated water.
- Food: Pack lunch and plenty of snacks. You will burn significant calories on this hike.
- Sturdy hiking boots: The rocky, rooty trail demands good footwear with ankle support
- Trekking poles: Extremely helpful on the rocky sections and stream crossings
- Rain gear: Weather can change quickly in the mountains
- Layers: Temperatures are cooler in the forested gorge
- Headlamp: Essential backup if you finish later than expected
- Camera: The forest and falls are spectacular subjects
- First aid kit: Basic supplies for the remote trail
Tips for Success
- Start early: Plan to begin hiking by 8 AM at the latest to allow 5-7 hours for the round trip
- Check conditions: Greenbrier Road can close after heavy rain. Call the park or check online.
- Pace yourself: The climb is sustained. Take breaks as needed and stay hydrated.
- Save energy: Remember you still have 4 miles to hike after enjoying the falls
- Be prepared for wet conditions: Stream crossings and spray from the falls will get you damp
- Wildlife awareness: Black bears inhabit this area. Store food properly and make noise on the trail.
- Leave no trace: Pack out all trash and stay on the designated trail
Nearby Trails to Explore
If Ramsey Cascades sounds too challenging or you want additional options in the Greenbrier area:
Approx Drive Time from Our Cabins
| Location | Drive Time |
|---|---|
| Our Cabins to Ramsey Cascades Trailhead | Approx 25 minutes |
