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Hiking to Baskins Creek Falls: Great Smoky Mountains

ByTeresa Kulczycki Posted on Updated on

Baskins Creek Falls is a quieter waterfall hike in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, located just outside Gatlinburg.

You can reach the falls via the Baskins Creek Trail. This waterfall is best known for its peaceful setting and low crowds compared to more popular Smoky Mountains waterfalls.

This guide covers what to expect on the hike, how difficult it is, and whether Baskins Creek Falls is worth visiting — especially if you’re deciding between multiple waterfall hikes in the area.

Baskins Creek Falls – Quick Overview

  • Location: Near Gatlinburg, Great Smoky Mountains National Park
  • Trail: Baskins Creek Trail
  • Distance: ~3 miles round trip
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Elevation gain: Moderate, steady climb
  • Crowds: Light to moderate
  • Best for: Quieter waterfall hike, experienced walkers

Baskins Creek Falls is a two-tiered, 40-foot-tall waterfall. While in the area, check out some of the other amazing falls in the Roaring Fork Area.

TIP: Be sure to pick up a Great Smoky Mountains National Park parking pass before heading to the trailhead. 

A serene waterfall cascading down a mossy, rocky cliff into a small creek, with a fallen log over the rocks and a moss-covered tree in the foreground, in a lush green woodland setting.
Photo by Brevort on Flickr

Is Baskins Creek Falls Worth Visiting?

Baskins Creek Falls is worth visiting if you’re looking for a less crowded waterfall hike in the Smoky Mountains and don’t mind a moderate uphill walk. The trail is peaceful and shaded, making it a good option during warmer months.

However, this hike may not be ideal if you’re short on time, traveling with very young kids, or want a quick, easy waterfall stop. In those cases, other Smoky Mountains waterfalls offer easier access.

Baskins Creek Falls is best for hikers who value quiet trails over dramatic waterfalls.

How to get to the Baskins Creek Falls Trailhead

To start your adventure to Baskins Creek, head out from downtown Gatlinburg. 

Turn from the bustling main Parkway onto the tranquil Historic Nature Trail/Airport Road. After a short drive of about 0.7 miles, get onto Cherokee Orchard Road.

Continue on this road for another 2.2 miles, and you'll enter the scenic one-way Cherokee Orchard Loop.

Cars driving along asphalt road in a wooded area in the spring season.

Follow the loop for about 0.9 miles, then keep an eye out for the turnoff onto the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail loop – this is another one-way route that leads you deeper into the area's natural beauty.

Just a short 0.2-mile drive on this loop, and you'll spot the trailhead for Baskins Creek Falls on the left side of the road. There is a small parking area.

Look for a small brown sign, the only marking indicating the trail's beginning. The trailhead starts from the center of this parking area.

This parking area is a great starting point, not just for this waterfall but also for several intertwining paths in the area.

The Roaring Fork Road typically closes in winter, but a short hike from Cherokee Orchard Road can still get you to the trailhead. 

After parking, be ready for a short ascent followed by a longer descent towards the falls. This part of the trail offers diverse experiences, from leisurely strolls to more strenuous sections, especially after rainfall, when the trail can get slippery. 

Tip: Trekking poles are helpful for the steep descent – especially if it's muddy!

Tip: No parking at the Baskins Creek Falls Trailhead? You may find parking in a couple of small pullovers along the route. The Grapeyard Ridge Trail is another option for the 3.1-mile out-and-back hike to Baskins Creek Falls. The total elevation gain for this trail is 787 feet.

Wooden Sign with Baskins Falls with arrow engraved into the wood on a wooden post.
Photo by Brevort on Flickr

What to expect on the Trail

Your journey to Baskins Creek Falls begins with a gentle ascent.

In the initial quarter-mile stretch, the terrain levels out, offering decent views of the western mountains and glimpses of Gatlinburg, particularly vivid during winter or early spring.

There isn't much view during the summer due to all of the foliage.

As you reach the 0.9-mile point, you'll encounter a notable feature of this hike – crossing Falls Branch.

This crossing doesn't have a footbridge, so if you're hiking post-heavy rain, be prepared for the possibility of getting your feet wet.

After the water crossing, the trail will turn to the left, following the creek downhill in a rapid descent. 

At the 1.1-mile mark, a side trail veers off to the left, leading to Baskins Cemetery. You will want to keep to the right to continue towards the falls.

Shortly after that, you will reach another small creek crossing. This crossing is much easier than the previous water crossing.

Reaching a trail junction at 1.3 miles, you have a decision to make. Going straight will lead you across Baskins Creek towards the eastern side of the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, which is about 1.3 miles away.

You'll want to turn left at this junction to keep on route to visit the falls.

The final 50 yards down to Baskins Creek Falls is notably steep and rugged terrain.

Despite the challenge, it's well worth the effort. This 40-foot, two-tiered waterfall is remarkably underrated, given its beauty and tranquility.

It's also an ideal spot for a picnic lunch or a snack. Enjoy the soothing sounds of falling water before the trek back up the steep ascent.

Small stream meandering through a wooded area in the spring when the ground is green with grass and ferns and trees have leaves.

What You’ll See at Baskins Creek Falls

Baskins Creek Falls is a smaller, more understated waterfall tucked into a wooded setting. While it’s not one of the tallest or most powerful waterfalls in the Smokies, its charm comes from the quiet atmosphere and natural surroundings.

The area around the falls is a peaceful place to take a short break before heading back the way you came.

Safety & Best Time to Visit

Best time to visit:

Safety tips:

  • Wear sturdy hiking shoes — the trail can be uneven
  • Bring water, especially in warmer months
  • Be prepared for the uphill return hike
  • Avoid climbing on wet rocks near the falls

This trail is best suited for hikers comfortable with moderate terrain.

Planning Your Visit

If you’re choosing between multiple waterfall hikes, Baskins Creek Falls pairs well with other Gatlinburg-area hikes or a quieter day in the park.

For visitors planning a longer trip, a Gatlinburg itinerary can help balance waterfall hikes with scenic drives and easier stops.

If you’re staying overnight, choosing lodging near Gatlinburg makes it easier to reach trailheads early and avoid crowds.

Other Waterfalls in the Roaring Forks Area

If you decide Baskins Falls isn't for you, or if heavy rain makes you leary of the creek crossing, no worries, as there are a few other waterfalls along the one-way Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail.

Rainbow Falls

  • Hike Distance: The Rainbow Falls Trail is a round trip of about 5.4 miles. 
  • Difficulty: Moderate to Hard
  • Note: One of the most famous falls in the park is known for the rainbow created by mist on sunny afternoons.
Rainbow Falls dramatically plunges over a cliff surrounded by the vibrant greenery of the forest, with a hiker standing at the base to give scale to the majestic scene.

Grotto Falls

  • Hike Distance: The Trillium Gap Trail will lead to Grotto Falls. It will be a 2.6-mile round trip from the parking lot to the falls.
  • Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
  • Note: Unique for walking behind the falls.
Waterfall falling over rock out cropping with greenery at the top of the falls. A couple are standing behind this walk behind waterfall.

Place of a Thousand Drips

  • Hike Distance: Accessible by car; minimal walking required.
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Note: This waterfall is easy to spot after heavy rain and can be viewed from the roadside.

Each of these waterfalls offers a distinct experience, from the enchanting view behind Grotto Falls to the impressive height of Rainbow Falls.

Whether you're up for a challenging hike or prefer a more leisurely stroll, the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail has a waterfall hike for every kind of adventurer.

US map with pins and dashed line connecting a US Road Trip Adventure.

What to Know Before Hiking Baskins Creek Falls

How difficult is the hike to Baskins Creek Falls, and how long does it take?

The hike is considered moderate due to a steady uphill climb. It’s about 3 miles round trip and typically takes 2 to 3 hours, depending on pace and how long you spend at the falls.

Is Baskins Creek Falls good for kids or beginners?

This hike is best for older kids and hikers with moderate fitness. The distance and elevation gain may be challenging for younger children or anyone looking for an easy walk.

Is there parking available near the trailhead?

Yes, there is a small parking area near the trailhead just off the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail. Spaces are limited, so arriving earlier in the day is recommended.

Are pets allowed on the trail to Baskins Creek Falls?

No. Pets are not allowed on this trail or most trails in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Wave Goodbye to Road Trip Boredom Free Ebook.

Is Baskins Creek Falls Worth the Hike?

Baskins Creek Falls offers a quieter alternative to some of the more crowded waterfall hikes near Gatlinburg. While the waterfall itself is modest, the experience is defined by a peaceful forest trail and fewer people on the path.

This hike is best for visitors who enjoy a steady walk and don’t mind an uphill return. If you’re short on time or prefer waterfalls with easier access, other nearby options may be a better fit.

If avoiding crowds is a priority, Baskins Creek Falls is a solid choice.

Many visitors include this hike as part of a slower-paced Smoky Mountains trip, pairing it with other Gatlinburg-area stops or scenic drives.

Cades Cove Visitor Center & Important Tips for the Smoky Mountains

Gatlinburg 3-Day Itinerary

Animals in the Smoky Mountains

Great Smoky Mountains in the Spring

Best Waterfalls at the Great Smoky Mountains

Best Scenic Drives in the Smoky Mountains National Park

Best National Park Sites to Explore in Tennessee

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Baskins Creek Falls in the Smoky Mountains - water flowing down mossy rocks.
4 images: Baskins Creek Falls in the Smoky Mountains - water flowing down mossy rocks. Moss covered rocks in a creek with lush trees surrounding the creek. One way paved road with trees along the roadside. Old cemetery headstones lined up in rows in the early spring.
Baskins Creek Falls in the Smoky Mountains - water flowing down mossy rocks. Water is smooth flowing.

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Teresa Kulczycki is the road trip-loving traveler behind An Acre in the City. She’s visited all 50 U.S. states, explored over 350 National Park Service sites, and stepped inside more than 40 state capitol buildings. Her favorite way to travel is by car, uncovering hidden gems, scenic byways, and quirky roadside stops along the way. Whether it’s chasing fall colors or checking out a new ballpark, there’s always another adventure waiting around the bend.