Ramsey Cascades is the highest waterfall accessible by trail in the park. Most of the water comes from the 6621′ Mt. Guyot, the second-highest mountain in the Great Smoky Mountains. Water drops 100 feet over rock outcroppings and collects in a small pool where numerous salamanders can be found. The trail to the waterfall gains over 2,000′ in elevation over its four-mile course and the eight-mile roundtrip hike is considered strenuous but well worth the effort. It takes between five and seven hours to hike to the waterfall and back. The trail follows rushing rivers and streams for much of its length. The last two miles pass through an old-growth cove of hardwood forest with large tulip trees, basswoods, silverbells, and yellow birches.
Please keep in mind bicycles and dogs are NOT allowed on this trail and a parking pass is required when parking longer than 15 minutes at the trailhead.
Trail Info:
Region: Greenbrier Length: 7.9 miles Rated: Hard Elevation Gain: 2,185 ft Route Type: Out & Back
Features:
Hiking, Waterfall, Forest, River, Views, Wildflowers, Wildlife, Rocky, No Dogs, Popular
Directions from Gatlinburg: Travel east on Hwy. 321 for approximately 5 miles and turn right onto Greenbrier Road. Continue south for approximately 3 miles and turn left at the fork in the road. The trailhead is at the end of the road.
