Tour Description: Every year over 200,000 visitors descend on the park to traverse crowded trails to view some of the parks popular displays of rushing water. The large waterfalls attract the even larger crowds, but hidden in nearly every corner of the park waterfalls of every shape and size are waiting to be discovered.
This guided water-filled experience take you to some of the less traveled areas of the park to view waterfalls, cascades, and swirling pools. Guides discuss the abundant average rainfall, the source of each amazing water feature, and shed light on the connection between the brooks, branches, streams and creaks to the abundant and diverse flora and fauna found in the park.
Available in mid-spring thru mid-summer when the waterfalls and cascades are normally at their best, this trip off of the beaten path will leave you thirsty for more.
Mountain Rush: The park’s abundant rainfall and continuous cloud cover, provide the life sustaining water the plants and animals need to survive. The brooks, streams, branches, and creeks travel through the gorges into the rivers and eventually into the sea.
With an average rainfall from approximately 55 inches in the open valleys to over 85 inches at higher elevations, a constant supply of rushing water feeds the park’s abundant waterfalls and cascades. During wet years, over eight feet of rain falls in the high country, creating displays of rushing water for us to enjoy throughout the park.
WHY GO: The waterfalls of the Smokys are some of the most magnificent displays of cascading water you’ll find on east of the Mississippi. Unravel the complex system behind the park’s seemingly endless flowing brooks, streams, and rivers This tour take you to a variety of falls and cascades.
NEED TO KNOW: Guides: All tours are lead by experienced local guides who are knowledgeable about the local wildlife, history, and culture. Sign up: Reservations are required. Experience: No experience is necessary. Ages: All ages are welcome. Children: Kids must be accompanied by an adult.COST: $34 for each adult. $19 for each child (10 years of age and younger).
Two and a half hours of easy to moderate walking with several stops for water and historical discussions along the way. A few moderate, short steep hills. Tours go as fast as the slowest person and cover a little more than 3 miles.
AVERAGE GROUP SIZE: We limit each tour to 6 to 12 people per guide. Large private groups may exceed 12 people and may require more than one guide.
TOUR TIMES: This tour is offered Monday thru Sunday. Tours depart at 8:00 am, 11:00 am, 2:00 pm, & 5:00 pm. Reservations are required!
LOCATIONS: This tour is offered at the following locations Monday thru Sunday:
Deep Creek
RESERVATIONS: All of our tours require advance reservations. Typically, reservations for our morning tours must be made the previous day. Same day reservations for afternoon tours can be made up to two hours prior to the tour time.
To make a reservation, please call (828) 488-6688 between 8 am and 8 pm Monday thru Sunday.
MORE TOURS:We offer a wide variety of walking and hiking excursions for all ages and experience levels. (See all of our tours.)
WEATHER: The Smoky Mountains are known for its varied climate. Some of our tours hike through temperate rainforests where rainfall can reach more than 100 inches per year. As a nature company we believe that part of experiencing the Great Smoky Mountains is to be a part of the elements that create one of the most biologically diverse areas in the world. Be prepared to get wet any time of year. Tours depart rain or shine.
CELL PHNOE, CAMERAS & ELECTRONICS: Binoculars and cameras are welcome, but keep in mind that inclement conditions are possible.
Other electronics such as IPODs, cellular phones, and other electronics that disrupt the tours are not allowed.
Any participant whose actions disrupt the tour will be removed from the trip without a refund.
WHAT TO BRING: You should bring enough bottled water for each member of your party, 1 quart of water per person is usually sufficient. Guides carry a water filtration system to refill your bottles with fresh water along the way. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats are recommended on all tours, and they are essential on our high elevation hikes. A small backpack to carry your belongings is handy. Bring any medications or prescriptions that may be needed during the duration of the tour. If someone in your party is allergic to bee stings you must bring their epi pen.
WHAT NOT TO BRING: Do not bring expensive electronics, tobacco products, alcoholic beverages, firearms, or illegal drugs.
WHAT TO WEAR: You should wear clothes that you do not mind getting dirty and wet. A sturdy pair of shoes is suitable for most trips, though comfortable hiking boots are recommended for half day and full day hikes. Do not wear a new pair of shoes or boots – your feet will regret it. The Smokys vary in elevation and so do the temperatures. Always be prepared for changes in weather by wearing layers that can be added or removed. Loose fitting pants and long sleeves are good for protecting you from the sun, insects, poison ivy, etc..
OTHER CONCERNS: Wondering about bugs, snakes, bears, or anything else? Click here for a list of commonly asked questions regarding our tours.
