Abrams Falls Trailhead — Attraction in Maryville

Gorgeous scenery and good fly fishing. The waterfall is a 2-1/2 mile walk in. The trail is good, only a couple of spots have uneven footing, but be prepared to cross two ridges before arriving at Abrams Falls. It isn't overly steep, I'm in my 60's and have no real problem with it. If you have bad knees or hips it probably is not for you, though. It is a very popular trail and you will usually have plenty of company along it and at the falls. If you want any semblance of solitude go off season and go early. The stream between the trailhead and waterfall is popular for trout fishing. It is full of wild, stream bred rainbow trout and is usually not crowded. Your chances of catching fish between 12 and 14 inches are better here than in most streams in the park. As Abrams Creek flows around the two ridges on it's way to the falls it forms "horse shoes" around their bases. The smaller of the two takes half a day to fish and the larger takes all day. This is reasonably rugged terrain and the stream will be your trail once you enter it. Be aware that you should not dally too much on the large horse shoe. Many people have lost track of the time and wound up spending the night in the woods. If you decide to fish it for the first time, go prepared with a properly stocked day pack just in case. If it gets dark on you, stay put. You don't want to injure yourself where the trail is hundreds of feet above you. Don't be discouraged, though, it's gorgeous trout water and the fishing can be very good. Another alternative is parking one car at Abrams Creek Campground, off of Happy Valley Road, then taking another to the trailhead in Cade's Cove and making a day of walking back down to the campground, maybe fishing a bit in "The Bottoms" on your way through. Always go prepared with snacks and plenty of water, maybe even a lightweight filtration bottle in case you need to supplement with stream water, and appropriate clothing, bug repellent, etc. It's all well worth experiencing, I doubt you'll be sorry you went. Be...

This is an incredibly beautiful trail. Hike this in the fall if you can! There is lush green foliage by the creekside, and strong, large trees cloaked in red and orange leaves. At different points you will hear the sound of the water as you hike which was such a pleasant treat. The elevation pattern is 50/50 up and down, so you have some challenging uphills and relieving downhills—but neither are so long that they outweigh the other. Great balance the whole time, and you are always hiking through ridges in these smaller mountains and getting views of other neighboring ridges across the creekside. It is 2.5 miles to the falls, and 2.5 back. The trailhead sign recommends planning for 3-4 hours. My wife and I hike at a brisk pace and managed to do it in almost 2 hours flat. I would say this is moderately intermediate for newer hikers or people who don't do much cardio. I do cardio 2-3 times a week, am a moderate hiker, so I didn't have problems pushing myself on this trail—but I was sore the next morning for sure. The falls are beautiful and when you stand on the rocks near them, you will feel the cool wind from the force of the falling water. On the way back, we saw a bear about 25 feet away! Stay bear aware.

Last thing, the trailhead is about halfway through the Cades Cove loop road. This loop is an 11 mile one-way drive, and is incredibly backed up especially on the weekend. So plan maybe two extra hours into your trip to account for the Cades Cove loop drive that is necessary to get to the Abrams Falls trailhead. And make sure your car has a good half tank of gas, that is a great general rule of thumb in GSM National Park, since everything is so spread out. Enjoy this, I loved this...

I want to properly share details about this trail, so many mixed reviews. I’ve hiked from Tennessee to Washington state and this is a great hike! This was my first time at Abrams

First, I would say it is mild-moderate difficulty being around 5 miles round trip and having 3 areas of notable incline/decline. Not to mention it is very rocky, so wear sturdy shoes. I wouldn’t recommend if you have instability in ankles/knees even if you’re “physically fit”. So much more to hiking than that!

Second, there are restrooms at the trailhead. Nothing fancy but it’s something.

Third, I wouldn’t recommend taking young children on this unless they’re seasoned in the outdoors. It’s a nice trek for adults but I can’t imagine doing this as a kid. All the kids I saw on this trail today were miserable on the way back.

Fourth, yes in the summer it’s hot and can be humid. Pack accordingly with water, snacks and bug spray!

Fifth, this trail often gets bear sightings so be aware. Stay as far away as you can, make noise and stand tall if they do get too close. It’s frustrating to see people still not respecting the black bears space.

Sixth, you do need a parking pass to park here. Daily, weekly, or yearly—It helps keep our parks clean and enjoyable

Lastly, those who said the waterfall is “small” or “not worth it” clearly don’t truly love the outdoors! It’s a beautiful waterfall and has plenty of sights to enjoy.

I loved this hike and tried to include many photos of the trail so you can decide for yourself....