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Reporter |
Summary: You will have to drive the Cades Cove Loop to get to the trailhead. Stop at the information area and pick up an auto tour map and explore what else the cove has to offer before and after the hike. During the first 4/10 of a mile you will follow the trail along Abrams Creek there are several photo opportunities along the creek before ascending Arbutus Ridge. You will have to cross 3 single log footbridges so extra precaution is required with children. We rated this trail easy but it is a steady uphill trek on the way back. The trails are in great condition and providing road conditions in the park this makes a great winter hike with snow on the ground. This is will probably will become one of your favorites as well. Depending on the season check with park phone number provided for road closings and possible bear activity. Trailhead: Preferred route: I-40 (Knoxville) to 140 East to 129 South follow signs to 411N/321N then continue on 321N to 73 East and you will enter the GSMNP. 7 miles to the Cades Cove Loop. I-40 East (Sevierville) exit #407 Hwy 66 to 441 South through Gatlinburg into the GSMNP entrance then West (Sugarlands Visitor Center) on Little River Road then follow signs to Cades Cove. You will need to drive halfway through the 11-mile loop to stop #12 Abrams Falls on the auto tour. Cades Cove Loop is not open to autos on Wednesdays and Sundays until 10:00 a.m. ****GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS NATIONAL PARK**** (Lat:35.59141 Lon:-83.85282) Trail Guides for Abrams Falls: Day Hikes in GSMNP by Johnny Molloy () Best Seasons: Year-Round User Groups: Hikers, Ranger Contact: Cades Cove Ranger 865-436-1200 Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Bobby Trotter, who has posted 74 other hikes on this site Trail Reviews Page 2 of 2 Submit your own review My husband and I just did this hike yesterday. A very good hike and moderately easy, even for those that don't hike very often. The hike back is a steady ascent, but not bad at all. The trail is well maintained. There are some tree roots and rocks jutting out of the ground in places. The falls are spectacular. We got to see some black bears from a distance on this hike. They have done a controlled burn along this trail. The sound of the roaring creek along most of this hike is wonderful. There were some trilliums and some lilliums blooming along this hike that were very beautiful. I would strongly suggest packing a lunch and some beverages for a nice rest once you get to the falls. Wonderful hike! Every single time I go back to Cades Cove I get filled with a sense of wonder and beauty that few places in the world can offer. The drive around the cove with sightings of deer and gorgeous landscapes is always first class, but try to go during the week to beat the weekend crowd. Add a trip down to Abrams Falls and you end up with wonderful memories. The hike to the falls is easy, but should not be underestimated. Dedicate a whole day to the Cades Cove + Abrams Falls package so you can enjoy at least an hour or so at falls. March 17, 2007 Very muddy after a rain, so I suggest hiking boots and gators. My teenagers thought tennis shoes and jeans were appropriate and the jeans are still in the sink soaking. Take water and a snack for less avid hikers; I took a pack to carry those things and first aid items. BEAUTIFUL after the sun is up and overhead. Just hiked it today for the first time. Good trail condition with some really neat scenery. The roar of the river right next to the trail is great. Some really cool bridges that are just tree trunks across the tributaries gives it a nice touch. Some really great spots to rest and soak the feet as well. The hike is easy and the trail well marked and well travelled. There were many people taking this hike the particular day we went. At the falls, the scene was disrupted by someone's dog barking incessantly while others were trying to enjoy the views and wilderness. I make this hike everytime I go to the Smoky Mountains. I always have someone with me that has never been, and I think it is a great place to show someone a beautiful waterfall. The hike isn't hard going in, but coming out seems to be a little hard at first. I am usually in the Smokies during August and the falls seem to be turned on full blast. I recommend taking a picnic lunck and bring your swim trunks. Get there early before everyone else for some great private photo opportunities. On a side note, if you are looking for a good hard hike with spectacular view at the end, try Chimmney Tops, it is well worth the trek. This is a great training hike.The Rock Gap before the Right turnback at 1.1-1.2 miles is actually the TOP of the mountain ridge,Copper heads live in it. brook Trout fingerlings schooled,the water was 41 degrees. Rhododendrons are all over and have no fragrance.We spied a beaver chewded stump! Great trail! Hiked it 4-23-2005(repeated hike). Of particular interest, we started from Cades Cove visitor center. A Volunteer turned us to the trail head(Unmarked) that wound it's way along Abrams creek(I think this is wet bottoms trail) A great view of the fields in Cades Cove from the woods. Added 1/2 mile both ways. Notice: Traveling in the backcountry can be hazardous. You are responsible for informing yourself about these hazards and taking necessary precautions. Information on this web site comes from volunteer reporters and may contain errors or omissions. A current guidebook and proper equipment are essential for safe enjoyment of the hikes posted on this site. Keys: Tennessee Hiking, Tennessee Trails, Tennessee Hikes, Blount County Hiking, Blount County Trails, Blount County Hikes | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||