Mingo Falls
Some of the most spectacular falls within the southern Appalachians.
Plan Around Mingo Falls
A good stop is not just something to read about. Once it belongs on the day, move into a saved trip and build the route around it.
Use this detail page to confirm that the stop is worth it, then carry that decision into a trip draft while the park context is still fresh.
Mingo Falls Details
Mingo Falls, although actually located outside the boundaries of Great Smoky Mountains National Park on the Cherokee Indian Reservation, are some of the most spectacular falls within the southern Appalachians. Best viewed after the rainy season, they cascade down 125 feet of mossy granite boulders to a peaceful plunge pool edged with tall hemlocks and wild, sprawling rhododendron that bloom beautifully in the spring. The access trail is steep, consisting of 161 stone steps that lead to a wooden bridge that crosses in front of the falls for an excellent viewing point. The access trail begins about 6 miles from Oconaluftee Visitor Center, at Mingo Falls Campground. From Oconaluftee Visitor Center, drive south (toward Cherokee) on US-441 and take the second left onto Big Cove Road. At the first stop sign turn left and drive 4.5 miles to Mingo Falls Campground, where the trail begins.
Difficulty
Low
Distance
N/A
Estimated time
Region
N/A
Nearby Parks Around Mingo Falls
Compare nearby parks around Mingo Falls when deciding whether to expand the route after this stop.
Nearby Points of Interest Around Mingo Falls
Use nearby POIs to quickly expand your options beyond Mingo Falls while the map context is still fresh.
0.2 mi away
Mingo Falls
The access trail is steep, consisting of 161 stone steps that lead to a wooden bridge.
1.4 mi away
Tow String Horse Camp
Located 4 miles north of Cherokee, NC.
2.1 mi away
Oconaluftee
Formerly the site of a Cherokee village and Appalachian community, the valley's bottomland.
2.1 mi away
Oconaluftee River Trail
Travels 1.5 miles between the Oconaluftee Visitor Center and the edge of Cherokee.
2.2 mi away
Mountain Farm Museum
Built of logs in 1900 from the once-bountiful chestnut trees.
