Abrams Falls

I am an avid hiker, and one of my favorite places to go is Cade's Cove in the Smokey Mountains National Park. Cade's Cove used to be a small community of homes from the early settlements in the 1700's, and most buildings are still there including churches, homes, mills, barns, and chicken coops. It is nestled within this valley at the foothills of the Smokies with a little stream running around the valley.

Though the homes and churches are a sight to see on their own, it is the trails that get most adventurers to come check them out. The trails rank from easy flat trails through trees to hiking halfway up the side of the mountains. The most popular trail is Abrams Falls, which has a beautiful waterfall (the only one in Cade's Cove). Though an only 2.5 mile hike, it is a steep one.

To start, you begin this seemingly easy trail through the forest by a calm stream. As you continue, the path begins elevating as you approach a rocky hillside. The path leads you to the side of the rocky hill and you switch from walking a path to almost climbing it; with a dirt path replaced with large and small rocks lined in a way for people to step on. The trail by this time becomes a bit harder as you continue your journey up the side of the rocky hillside.

When you reach the top, there is a clearing on the hill where three large rocks to your left, and a rock-faced ledge to your right. In front and behind you, a really nice view of the blue Smokey Mountains that enclose the Cade’s Cove. On the other side of the rock-faced ledge, the trail continues downward. You follow the trail down, but still walk cautious as the rocks here are a little uneven and sharp. The walk down takes longer than walking up, but once you reach the bottom of the rocky trail, you are meant by an easier trail that is smooth dirt through a forest again. That’s when you hear the sound of running water nearby.

Over a tiny stream from a spring, a bridge is set up for guests to safely cross over slippery rocks that are covered in slime and damp moss. Also, it is high enough to let animals pass under to get to the small fresh spring. On the other side of the bridge, a small windy path leads further into a thick forest and around a boulder covered in moss. When you follow it, you come upon a small clear pond. At the top of the pond, there’s a relatively descent size waterfall; the sound of the water is soothing and echoes off the trees and hills surrounding it. It is a peaceful sight to behold.

As a treat for the hike, you are allowed to swim and chill in the cold water below the waterfall (so long as you are wearing proper swim attire). A sign confirms that you are allowed to enjoy the cool spring pond, so long as you are properly dressed and stay away from the waterfall for safety.

After a rough but fun hike, you enjoy the cold water that cools you down from hiking and enjoy the scenery around you. It is peaceful there, and not busy since not many people wish to hike the rough trail, but oh they miss the reward at the end of the trail. The breeze feels good on sun-kissed and sweaty face; the fresh air smell hitting your nose as well as the smell of pine from the trees. It is an amazing place to relax and enjoy a hidden paradise within the Smokey Mountains.