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Abrams Falls

View this trail on the brand new LocalHikes.com

Highlights:

Great trail and peaceful surroundings makes this one of GSMNP's popular hikes...
Near:Townsend, TN
Scenery:
Distance:5 miles round trip
Elevation Gain:2186 ft
Hike Time:3.5 hours
Difficulty:Easy
Trail Condition:Well maintained trail
HikeType:Out and Back



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 3   Submit your own review
Reviewed by KB on 6/25/2008
This hike is mostly easy, but at times can be hard. Some parts have hills with jagged rocks and branches sticking out, so be sure to be careful. It is a great hike though for the whole family and if it is hot out you can swim in the pool. The falls are nice, the only thing that disappoints me is that some people leave their trash at the scene and ruin it. Please, if you're going to go there respect nature.

Reviewed by Jeff on 11/18/2007
I hiked this trail today for the first time. I had always avoided the trail before because it normally is crowded. This trail is not a "I've never hiked before and I'm going to start today", but it is fairly easy for anyone that hikes. The path itself is very worn for the most part and fairly wide as well. We kept moving most of the time and finished the hike in 2hrs 7 minutes hiking time. The falls are pretty and had I hiked this in the summer, the pool would have been refreshing. Nice hike all in all.

Reviewed by Daniel on 10/13/2007
Just hiked this trail last week (10/8/2007). It was great, maybe a little tough for someone new to hiking, especially the first half of the trip back. I am not in great shape, and I handled it pretty much ok. Took about 4 hours or so roundtrip, we actaully saw river otters at the falls, I heard them, but never spotted them, my partner saw them before they scurried off into woods. THe falls were full, which I was surprised with the drought the southeast is having. Would hike this trail again, maybe packing alittle extra water this time.

Reviewed by KAD on 4/23/2007
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!

Reviewed by AIA on 3/23/2007
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.

Reviewed by Laurinda on 3/18/2007
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.

Reviewed by Tim on 3/10/2007
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.

Reviewed by Brad on 6/26/2006
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.


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


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