Abrams Falls is a waterfall 5 mile roundtrip hike on the Abrams Falls Trail. The trailhead is midway around the Cades Cove Loop Road, just before the Cable Mill area and visitor center. (More information below...)

photography © 1998-2003 Chuck Summers

Abram's Falls: The Hike and Its History

One of the most celebrated recreational activities enjoyed by visitors to the Smoky Mountains region is walking and hiking. The Appalachian treasure trove known as the Great Smoky Mountain National Park has literally hundreds of hiking and walking trails for Tennessee travelers to choose from. One of the most traveled trails in this area of Tennessee is the one that takes outdoor enthusiasts to Abram's Falls. The site at the top is more than worth the short and relatively easy-going jaunt up the mountain.

The hiking trail in question meanders along Abram's Creek on its way up to the Falls. Abram’s Falls itself is a 20 foot waterfall that pours down the side of the mountain and into a large pool. Many visitors make use of this pool by taking the opportunity to wade or swim. Though the hike is not a difficult one, the pool at the top provides the perfect natural refreshment after the hike along Abram’s Trail. That’s especially the case in the full-bloom and soaring temperatures of the summer season!

As mentioned, the Abram’s Trail is a relatively easy one and thus is popular for families with younger children and for Smoky Mountain vacationers who find tough terrain difficult to navigate. Abram’s Trail follows a creek-bed that meanders between two ridges. You'll follow several switchbacks before arriving at the "summit" (though its not all that high) where Abram's Falls is located.

In addition to the beautiful, all-natural displays of lush Appalachian foliage located along the trail that leads up to Abram’s Falls, the scenery also includes numerous historic, man-made landmarks. Among these famous remnants of an era long since past in the Smoky Mountains region, is the Elijah Oliver House. This famous historic attraction is named for the son of the first European settler to arrive in the Cades Cove area. This original settler arrived here in the year 1818.

Abram’s Falls is named after Chief Abrams. The chief was a historic leader of the Cherokee tribe. The Cherokees have been active in the area for centuries and still offer several, popular Smoky Mountain special events throughout the year. Learning about the history of the Cherokee tribe is a vital part of any Smoky Mountain vacation. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park shows off numerous monuments that play tribute to the legacy of the Cherokee in the area. A leisurely hike up to Abram’s Falls lets Smoky Mountain vacationers enjoy the very best of the area’s outdoor recreation, while simultaneously providing them with a glimpse into the historic past of this magnificent region of East Tennessee.

 

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