The Sinks — Attraction in Gatlinburg

The Sinks: A Jewel in the Wilderness for Swimmers and Cliff Divers

Nestled within the breathtaking embrace of the American wilderness, "The Sinks" stands out as an absolutely phenomenal destination for anyone seeking an exhilarating blend of swimming and cliff diving. Having recently had the immense pleasure of experiencing this natural wonder, I can confidently say it lives up to its legendary reputation, offering an unforgettable adventure for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike.

From the moment you arrive, the sheer beauty of The Sinks is striking. Crystal-clear, emerald-hued water, fed by pristine mountain springs, beckons you to dive in. The water itself is refreshingly cool, a perfect antidote to a warm day, and incredibly clean, allowing for excellent visibility of the rocky bottom below. Whether you're leisurely paddling or perfecting your strokes, the swimming here is simply sublime. The varied depths cater to all levels of swimmers, from shallow, safe areas perfect for families with younger children to deeper sections ideal for more experienced aquatic adventurers.

But what truly sets The Sinks apart, and what draws many of its ardent admirers, is the unparalleled cliff diving. The natural rock formations surrounding the water create a series of jumping-off points of varying heights, offering a progression from thrilling leaps to genuinely heart-pounding plunges. For the uninitiated, there are lower ledges, perhaps 10-15 feet high, that provide a fantastic entry point into the world of cliff jumping. These are perfect for building confidence and getting a feel for the jump. As you ascend, the heights increase, culminating in some truly impressive drops that demand a certain level of courage and skill.

What I particularly appreciated was the thought put into safety (or rather, the natural safety features). While certainly not a controlled environment like a pool, the landing areas beneath the cliffs are generally deep and free of major obstructions, a testament to the natural erosion and flow of the water over time. However, as with any adventurous activity, caution and common sense are paramount. It's crucial to assess the depth and conditions before each jump and to never jump alone or under the influence. The camaraderie among fellow divers is also noteworthy; experienced jumpers are often happy to offer advice and encouragement, fostering a welcoming and adventurous atmosphere.

Beyond the aquatic thrills, The Sinks offers a fantastic natural setting for a full day of enjoyment. There are ample spots along the banks to lay out a towel, picnic, and simply soak in the stunning surroundings. The surrounding forests are vibrant and teeming with life, offering opportunities for short hikes and exploration if you need a break from the water. The air is clean and crisp, and the sounds of nature, combined with the splashes and laughter of fellow adventurers, create a truly idyllic ambiance.

In conclusion, The Sinks is far more than just a swimming hole; it's an experience. It's a place where you can challenge yourself, connect with nature, and create lasting memories. Whether you're a seasoned cliff diver or simply looking for a picturesque spot to cool off and enjoy the great outdoors, The Sinks delivers on all fronts. Just remember to pack your sense of adventure, a healthy respect for nature, and perhaps a waterproof camera to capture the exhilarating moments. This is truly a must-visit destination for anyone who loves the water and the thrill of a good jump. I'm already planning my...

This is a great family place for swimming and jumping off rocks. I'm sure the water level can change and make it more dangerous. But when we visited the current was mild and there were a lot of young kids playing in the water.

Parking is the biggest issue. The parking lot only has space for about 15 cars. If it is already full it is very difficult to even get turned around. There are some addition "pull off" parking spots furthe dow the river but they are on the opposite side of the road. The road is very narrow and almost impossible to turn around. I cruised around at least 30 minutes before I found a spot to squeeze into and then I still had a 10 minute walk back to the falls. There is a very narrow path for parts of it but you almost have to just stand still when cars pass.

There is also a slight climb up and back down to get to the water. Anyone with mobility challenges prbably won't want to try. For the average person it is a bit of a workout but can be accomplished if you go slow.

All in all there were a lot of familes having fun. The water was cool but everyone still enjoyed it as it was in the 90's that day. It is just a lot to park...

Loved the waterfalls, pretty drive up the roads to get to views, breathtaking mountainsides - we drove up in rented UTVs, was fun in the fresh open air! Limited parking, very popular "sight seeing" here ; bathrooms close by & easily accessible. I'm a risk taker & climb out over the guard rails on to rocks and hillsides- do not recommend ! If not fit and confident, park has rails set up to keep people OFF of ledges and dangerous, slippery rocks. A tumble down the boulders would NOT be fun & could be lethal. River was gorgeous, tho: we had clear blue skies and crisp autumn breezes, a perfect day to listen to the water rush past . Photos away from allowable paths, NOT on bridge or platform. Still pretty, on the...