Hike to Hen Wallow Falls

This 4.3-mile (6.9-km) roundtrip hike begins at Gabes Mountain Trailhead near the Cosby Picnic Area.

NPS Photo/Davis

Overview

Hike 4.3 miles (6.9 km) roundtrip through a hardwood forest with hemlock and rhododendron to a popular 90-foot (27-m) waterfall.

This trail includes some steep sections and switchbacks. Hen Wallow Creek, only two feet wide at the top of the falls, separates into two streams and fans out to 30 feet at it tumbles to the base of the falls. If you look carefully, you can often see salamanders in the pool at the bottom. Hikers continuing on the Gabes Mountain Trail beyond the falls can enjoy an impressive old-growth forest.

Length

4.3 miles (6.9 km) roundtrip

Parking

Park in the designated hiker parking area at Cosby Picnic Area near the entrance to Cosby Campground and backtrack on foot approximately 100 yards along the entrance road to the signed start of Gabes Mountain Trail.

Nearest Restroom

Cosby Picnic Area

Alternate Hikes

• Lynn Camp Prong Cascades
• Mouse Creek Falls

Details

Activity

Hiking

Pets Allowed

No

TheGatlinburg Trail and Oconaluftee River Trail are the two park trails where pets are permitted. Pets are also allowed in picnic areas, in campgrounds, and on roads.

Activity Fee

Yes

A parking tag is required to park in the Smokies for more than 15 minutes.

Reservations

No

Accessibility Information

Hike has steep sections and tree roots across multiple sections of trail.