Hike to Upper Meigs Falls

Gatlinburg, Tennessee

5.0/5

based on 1 reviews

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Details

Distance

3.55 miles

Elevation Gain

1000 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Sophie Justinak

Meigs Creek Upper Falls is a relatively easy 4.0 mile round trip hike right off of Little River Gorge Road (State Hwy 73). Less crowded than other waterfall destinations in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Intimately winds through forest and stream.

Parking available off of Little River Gorge Road (State Hwy. 73) at The Sinks/Meigs Creek Trailhead.

The trail starts with winding elevation gain until it crests around 1 mile into the hike (notice pine trees at higher elevation). After the crest it starts descending towards Meigs Creek. While following Meigs Creek the trail has mild elevation gain and loss through groves of Rhododendron and deciduous trees. The trail crosses Meigs Creek 4 times before reaching Upper Meigs Falls (a.k.a. Meigs Creek Cascade) 2 miles in.

The Meigs Cascade offers multiple photo opportunities from above and below and is a great place to have lunch for the day. Just follow the trail in reverse to reach the parking lot (4.0 miles round trip). Can go an extra 1.5 miles from the falls to Buckhorn Gap to extend the hike or make a loop with other trails.

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Features

Hiking

Easy Parking

Family Friendly

Forest

River

Waterfall

Wildflowers

Reviews

Hannah VanLaningham

Hike to Upper Meigs Falls

09/03/22

It was a little less than 4 miles round trip with a few water crossings. The falls are lovely and a great place to relax before heading back out. It’s crowded when you get in and there is limited parking at the trailhead, but not a lot of folks on the trail - people mostly hangout at the trailhead and swim.

5.0

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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Hike to Upper Meigs Falls

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Leave No Trace

Nearby

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