Cataract Falls

Duration

30-60 minutes (including 20-minute round trip hike)

Price

$5 parking tag (covers entire national park for the day)

Best For

Families with young children • First-time Smoky Mountains visitors • Anyone wanting an easy waterfall hike

Pro Tip

Start from the Cove Mountain Trailhead near park headquarters instead of the main visitor center - it cuts the hike down to just 0.5 miles and you'll skip most of the crowds.

About Cataract Falls

Cataract Falls stands out as one of the most beginner-friendly waterfalls in the Smokies, offering a perfect introduction to the area's natural beauty. This 25-foot cascade sits conveniently behind Sugarlands Visitor Center, accessible via an easy half-mile trail that takes most families about 30 minutes round trip.

The path winds through shaded forest with wooden bridges crossing Fighting Creek. Children particularly enjoy wading in the shallow creek sections along the way.

Visitors should note that this isn't a massive waterfall - rather, it's a gentle cascade flowing into a small pool. This makes it ideal for first-time visitors or anyone seeking a quick nature experience without the crowds that gather at popular spots like Laurel Falls.

The trail features some roots and rocks, though it remains accessible enough that many families successfully navigate it with strollers. Water flow appears most impressive after recent rainfall, so checking weather conditions beforehand helps ensure the most dramatic photo opportunities.

Parking requires a $5 daily pass for the national park, which provides access to the entire Smokies area throughout the day.

Amenities & Features

Extremely easy, mostly flat trail accessible from the visitor center parking areaFamily-friendly with young children (even 4-year-olds) successfully completing the hikeShort distance (approximately 1 mile) makes it perfect for beginners or those with limited timePeaceful woodland setting with creek views, wood bridges, and opportunities to get close to the falls

Don't Miss

25-Foot Cascade

The main waterfall drops into a small pool surrounded by moss-covered rocks. It's not massive, but the intimate setting makes for great photos and the sound is surprisingly peaceful even with other visitors around.

Fighting Creek Wade

The shallow creek runs alongside much of the trail, and kids (and adults) love cooling off by wading in the clear mountain water. Multiple access points make it easy to get in and out safely.

Wooden Bridge Crossings

Several small wooden bridges cross the creek and add charm to the hike. They're also great photo spots and give you different perspectives of the water flowing below.

Shaded Forest Path

The entire trail stays cool under a canopy of hardwood trees, making it comfortable even on hot summer days. Fall brings beautiful leaf colors that reflect in the creek water.

Junior Ranger Activities

Pick up a Junior Ranger booklet at Sugarlands Visitor Center before your hike. The trail has several nature education stops that kids can use to complete their booklet and earn a badge.

Know Before You Go

Arrive early morning or late afternoon for easier parking at Sugarlands Visitor Center
Wear shoes with good traction - trail has roots, rocks, and can be muddy after rain
Bring $5 cash or card for the required national park parking tag
Water flow is best after recent rainfall - falls are thinner during dry spells
Trail has uneven sections that require lifting strollers, not fully wheelchair accessible

Visitor Sentiment

Based on reviews

Cataract Falls receives consistently positive feedback from visitors. Located in Gatlinburg, it's a solid choice for the area.

Best Times to Visit Cataract Falls

Arrive early or late in the day to avoid peak crowds.

🔥Buzzing

Holiday weekends

☀️Relaxed

Off-season weekdays

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the hours for Cataract Falls?

The trail is accessible 24/7, but Sugarlands Visitor Center (main trailhead) is typically open 9 AM to 5 PM. You can still access the trail outside visitor center hours, but restrooms and ranger services won't be available.

How much does Cataract Falls cost?

The hike is free, but you need a Great Smoky Mountains National Park parking tag: $5 for one day, $15 for seven days, or $40 annual. This covers parking throughout the entire park.

Do I need reservations for Cataract Falls?

No reservations needed. It's a public trail in the national park that operates on a first-come, first-served basis for parking.

How long should I spend at Cataract Falls?

Most people spend 30-60 minutes total including the walk and time at the falls. The trail takes 10-20 minutes each way depending on your pace and how much time you spend exploring the creek.

Is Cataract Falls good for kids?

Yes, it's one of the best kid-friendly waterfall hikes in the Smokies. The trail is short and mostly flat, and children love wading in the shallow creek sections. Suitable for ages 3 and up with supervision.

Is there parking at Cataract Falls?

Park at Sugarlands Visitor Center, which has large paved lots. Parking can fill up during peak times (weekends, summer, fall foliage season), so arrive early or try the smaller Cove Mountain Trailhead lot.

Can I bring a stroller on the Cataract Falls trail?

Many families use strollers successfully, but expect to lift or maneuver them over roots, rocks, and small steps in a few sections. The trail isn't fully paved but is manageable with an all-terrain stroller.

Is Cataract Falls worth it if I'm visiting other waterfalls?

It's a nice add-on if you're already at Sugarlands, but don't make it your only waterfall destination. The falls are small compared to Laurel Falls or Rainbow Falls, but the easy access makes it great for families or a quick nature break.