Meigs Falls

Overview

Meigs Falls is the definition of an easy win: a pretty waterfall you can admire straight from your car. The cascade sits up Meigs Creek across the Little River, so your view is from a distance—but when the water is running and the leaves are down, it’s a lovely stop with essentially zero effort.

How to find it

It’s on Little River Road between Gatlinburg and Townsend. From Sugarlands Visitor Center, drive west about 13 miles; it’s roughly 1 mile past The Sinks, at the long pull-off with a stone wall on the left. From the Townsend Wye, drive east about 7 miles; the same long pull-off will be on your right. There’s no sign and it’s easy to blow past, so keep an eye out for that stone wall pull-off.

What to expect

You’ll park in the roadside pull-off and view the falls across the river, about 75–100 yards up Meigs Creek. There is no official trail to the base, and off-trail approaches are hazardous—enjoy it from the pull-off. Expect the view to feel distant, and in leafy months the falls can be partially screened.

Best times to visit

Leaf‑off (late fall through winter) gives the cleanest sight lines, and recent rain makes the flow pop. Overcast light or morning tends to photograph better than harsh midday sun. In midsummer or during dry spells, the falls can look subdued.

Nearby hike: Meigs Creek Trail to "Upper Meigs Falls"

If you want to turn this quick stop into an outing, start at The Sinks parking area and take the Meigs Creek Trail. In about 1.7 miles you’ll reach Meigs Creek Cascades (often called Upper Meigs Falls). The trail is moderate with a stout initial climb and features around 18 unbridged creek crossings—easy in low water, tricky after rain. Expect lush ferns and partridge berry, and occasional deer sightings.

Practicalities

• The pull-off has parking but no restrooms; the nearest reliable facilities are at Sugarlands Visitor Center.
• If you stop longer than 15 minutes anywhere in the park, you’ll need a Park It Forward parking tag.

Safety and etiquette

Stay within the designated pull-off; slippery rocks and swift water around waterfalls have caused serious injuries. If you head onto Meigs Creek Trail, bring footwear you don’t mind getting wet and consider trekking poles for the crossings.