Baskins Creek Trail to Baskins Creek Falls

Near the first quarter-mile the grade eases, and winter or early spring can open views west toward the mountains and Gatlinburg. Summer leaves often screen them. Around 0.9–1.0 mile, cross Falls Branch without a bridge; after heavy rain, expect that crossing to be wet. The trail drops more steeply beyond it.

A marked side path to Baskins Creek Cemetery leaves before the falls junction; backtrack to the main tread if you visit. At the later junction, take the left branch for the falls. Continuing straight crosses Baskins Creek and carries the through-trail about 1.3 miles farther to its eastern access. This hike returns to the western trailhead. Distance descriptions vary; the full mapped line to the falls and back measures 3.3 miles.

The last approach is steep and rugged, with mossy rocks that become slippery when wet. The falls drop in two tiers over a rock wall. Pause where the whole cascade is visible; framing both drops makes the height and shape easier to read. Save enough energy for the climb back out.

The route passes northern red oak, eastern hemlock, and striped maple. Mountain laurel can bloom in spring.

The small Baskins Creek pull-off is on the one-way Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, about 0.2 mile after entering from Cherokee Orchard Road and just before Jim Bales Place. The scenic drive is seasonal, generally open from mid-April through late November. A Smokies parking tag is required when parked longer than 15 minutes; it does not reserve a space. No drinking-water source is identified at the trailhead or along the route, so carry what you need for the return climb. Dogs are not allowed on this trail.