Ramsey Cascades
Ramsey Cascades
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5.0
177 reviews
Excellent
150
Very good
22
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3
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0
Terrible
2
ToriV.RD
Ann Arbor, MI13 contributions
Jul 2020 • Couples
Had an awesome time on this hike. It got pretty challenging with some steep elevation at the end, but the waterfall at the top was well worth the trek. The rhodedendrons along the way were also stunning. We did not take enough snacks or water, highly recommend ~2L per person in the summer months. We brought 2L for the both of us and were out before we reached the top. Near the waterfall there are a few of of spots to have some lunch or snacks. Overall a great hike if you are looking for a challenge but keep in mind it can get strenuous!
Written 17 July 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Frank C
Sarasota, FL415 contributions
Jul 2020
This is why rated as difficult.
Almost 3 hours up hill all the way!
Plan on 5 hours round trip, seriously! Wear sturdy boots, with harder soles.
Bring water, first aid kit. Chance of tripping on the countless
roots and boulders along the way!
Rhododendrons, mostly all white with pink bases, are beautiful, abundant throughout the area!
Saw 2 timber rattler snakes, sunning on the trail, be careful.
Trail is clearly marked.
The Cascades are nice, but we have hiked out West and other places, have seen better, after such a difficult effort to get there.
Area at base of Cascades, you can walk across and dip your feet, to cool off.
Water was about 60 degrees. We drank from the creek, but I am sure many
would not. If you go latter in the day, like noon, have less crowds and still time to
enjoy the Cascades.
Parking is always a problem! We got there around 11 am, lucked out. Bottom of cascades, great place to rest and snack. Bring snacks, watch out for the Red squirrel that is looking for snacks!
The road there is very narrow and long. Picnic area is only area you can pull off
and has restroom. Be careful of 4 wheel buggies and off road jeep tours. We witnessed a roll over and serious injury.
Almost 3 hours up hill all the way!
Plan on 5 hours round trip, seriously! Wear sturdy boots, with harder soles.
Bring water, first aid kit. Chance of tripping on the countless
roots and boulders along the way!
Rhododendrons, mostly all white with pink bases, are beautiful, abundant throughout the area!
Saw 2 timber rattler snakes, sunning on the trail, be careful.
Trail is clearly marked.
The Cascades are nice, but we have hiked out West and other places, have seen better, after such a difficult effort to get there.
Area at base of Cascades, you can walk across and dip your feet, to cool off.
Water was about 60 degrees. We drank from the creek, but I am sure many
would not. If you go latter in the day, like noon, have less crowds and still time to
enjoy the Cascades.
Parking is always a problem! We got there around 11 am, lucked out. Bottom of cascades, great place to rest and snack. Bring snacks, watch out for the Red squirrel that is looking for snacks!
The road there is very narrow and long. Picnic area is only area you can pull off
and has restroom. Be careful of 4 wheel buggies and off road jeep tours. We witnessed a roll over and serious injury.
Written 17 July 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
houstongal43
Conroe, TX304 contributions
Oct 2021 • Couples
If I had written this the day of our hike, I would have said “Don’t even think about it!” I’m 61 and not in top physical form. My fiancé misread the difficulty level (he thought it said “moderate”). We knew the round trip was 4 miles, but we walk a lot, so thought it would be only a slight challenge. It is uphill ALL the way, but the real challenge is the obstacles in the trail….rocks, roots, steep steps. If you take your eyes off the trail for a second (to enjoy the view or look for bears), you WILL trip and fall. Plan to sto along the way and eat something to maintain your strength. I got very tired 3/4 of the way up and lost my footing several times until we decided to stop and take a break peanut butter and crackers). At that point, I was determined to finish, but wondered how the hell I was going to make it back down??
The waterfall at the end of the trail was worth it. There were very few people there when we arrived and when they all left, we had the place to ourselves for the remaining hour. We ate our sandwiches, gazing at the enormity of the falls.
Go prepared for a challenge. Take a jacket and gloves because it gets very cold once you get to the falls. Take lunch and stay a while to enjoy the beauty.
The hike down was better and faster. Three days later, my legs are still sore!
The waterfall at the end of the trail was worth it. There were very few people there when we arrived and when they all left, we had the place to ourselves for the remaining hour. We ate our sandwiches, gazing at the enormity of the falls.
Go prepared for a challenge. Take a jacket and gloves because it gets very cold once you get to the falls. Take lunch and stay a while to enjoy the beauty.
The hike down was better and faster. Three days later, my legs are still sore!
Written 25 October 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Cody K
Bellefontaine, OH60 contributions
Jul 2021
This was my favorite hike in the smokies. The pictures on line did not do this hike justice. Almost the entire hike is along side a small river/stream with many fantastic river crossings and views of water cascading over rocks and boulders. There are a few bridge crossings that are also really fantastic!! You will have to hike it to see for yourself. However, the hike says it is 4 miles one way. My sister in law tracked our hike with her watch and it said it was a little over 5 miles one way. Even at a 10 mile round trip hike it is totally worth it. Most of the hike to the Cascades is up hill but it is not an overly strenuous hike. We stopped a few times to get pictures and take a break. The last half mile is probably the most difficult as you have to hike/scramble over larger rocks/boulders to make it to the cascades. We did not see any bears on this hike but we did come across two other groups that said they saw black bear earlier on their hike. We took our time on this hike and we spent about 5 hours round trip. That included eating dinner at the cascades. If you are pressed for time you could probably push yourself and complete this hike in about 4 hours. If you have younger children they might find this hike to long and strenuous. Overall this was a great hike that was not very busy and easy to get away from the busy down town areas of Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge.
Written 1 August 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Tina F
2 contributions
Jul 2020 • Family
My family and I hiked to the Ramsey Cascades. I will say it is definitely worth it. The falls are spectacular. But a word of advice, go early. Pack plenty of water and snacks or a lunch. Use the bathroom facilities at the stop before getting to trailhead. The hike is grueling all uphill. The last mile or so is especially difficult. Wear comfortable shoes. It took us 4 hours going because we took several rest stops and 2 1/2 hours back. We also got caught in the rain on the way back. If rain is in forecast make sure to take a pancho. Again, it's worth it but be prepared.
Written 7 August 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
dfranco52006
Blandon, PA162 contributions
Aug 2021 • Family
This was our first time hiking to the cascade. We have two kids age 8 and 12 and we are very active family. This was a challenging hiking but so rewarding. We had no issues getting there. It is very steep and points almost climbing up. The falls were amazing to see. We saw deer and snakes along the way. Well worth the hike!
Written 7 August 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Chuck S
Elburn, IL74 contributions
Sept 2015 • Couples
Be prepared and know what you're getting into, adhear to that and enjoy a great hike. The first 1.7 miles is essentially a pleasant nature trail, if your not ready for a long hike turn around here and head back to your car. This is where the old logging road ends.
From the sign at 1.7 miles to the first foot bridge at 2.1 miles the trail narrows and the road is now gone and trail difficulty increases slightly. You'll cross the second foot bridge at 2.9 miles, once crossing that bridge ratchet up the difficulty to the next level.
At this point tree roots and rocks are much more abundant. Rock stairs pop up from time to time. What's nice about this trail are the scattered level sections to hike. It's not like a solid accent at Baskins Creek Falls, there are plenty of places to catch your breath on this trail.
During the 2.9 mile to the 3.5 mile stretch you'll hike away from the water and into the woods. Once you start hearing the water again you'll be getting close to the end. The final approach to the fall will include climbing over large boulders at this point keep your eyes open and you'll catch a glimpse of the falls to come. One last steep climb and you're there and the falls are some of the best in the Smokys.
I'm 53, overweight, and have arthritis in my knee and ankle. It took me 3:02 to hike up to the falls and 2:40 minutes to hike down. Please be prepared for this hike. Plenty of water is a must. Hiking shoes and poles are strongly recommended. As far as kids on this hike....it depends on the kids ability but I'd suggest turning around at the 1.7 mile mark and call it a day.
As far as the one reviewer who (gave this hike 2 Stars?) saw older people on the trail and assumed there was an escalator or an easier path.....head back to Gatlinburg sweetie, your outlet mall is waiting. For the rest of you, enjoy the falls, they're breathtaking.
From the sign at 1.7 miles to the first foot bridge at 2.1 miles the trail narrows and the road is now gone and trail difficulty increases slightly. You'll cross the second foot bridge at 2.9 miles, once crossing that bridge ratchet up the difficulty to the next level.
At this point tree roots and rocks are much more abundant. Rock stairs pop up from time to time. What's nice about this trail are the scattered level sections to hike. It's not like a solid accent at Baskins Creek Falls, there are plenty of places to catch your breath on this trail.
During the 2.9 mile to the 3.5 mile stretch you'll hike away from the water and into the woods. Once you start hearing the water again you'll be getting close to the end. The final approach to the fall will include climbing over large boulders at this point keep your eyes open and you'll catch a glimpse of the falls to come. One last steep climb and you're there and the falls are some of the best in the Smokys.
I'm 53, overweight, and have arthritis in my knee and ankle. It took me 3:02 to hike up to the falls and 2:40 minutes to hike down. Please be prepared for this hike. Plenty of water is a must. Hiking shoes and poles are strongly recommended. As far as kids on this hike....it depends on the kids ability but I'd suggest turning around at the 1.7 mile mark and call it a day.
As far as the one reviewer who (gave this hike 2 Stars?) saw older people on the trail and assumed there was an escalator or an easier path.....head back to Gatlinburg sweetie, your outlet mall is waiting. For the rest of you, enjoy the falls, they're breathtaking.
Written 11 September 2015
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Gothiclion
Newport, TN108 contributions
Jul 2018 • Couples
You’re reading this, trying to decide what trail you want to hike in the Smoky Mountains for that one day you have penciled-in to explore the park. Don’t feel bad, I did the same thing too and after reading numerous reviews on TripAdvisor and watching videos of this trail, I figured this trail was not that big of a deal. I was wrong. None of that prepares you for what this trail…or should I say trial…has in store for you. Yes, I made it to the end; I saw the Ramsey Cascades Falls; and I made it back out…then proceeded to go back in over a mile to assist my companion. More on that later.
Everyone says this trail is longer than 8 miles. Believe them. First of all, I don’t think the measurements take into consideration the elevation change. That right there adds almost another mile on to the roundtrip total. Even though we looked at the trail on satellite images and determined approximately where the two single log bridges were—one at about the half-way point and the second at about the ¾ mark—I totally forgot this due to the severity of the hike when arriving at the second bridge. You may think you’ve survived the worse—what has been referred to in other hiking blogs as the “Staircases of Death”—but you haven’t seen anything yet. That last mile is a hell unto itself. A 969 foot elevation gain for a grade of 18%...over some of the biggest boulders and rocks and narrow trails you will ever see in the Smokies. There’s no shame in turning around at this point; the falls are pretty, but in my opinion, they are not worth that last mile to see them. And don’t forget at this point, you still need to walk back out. You may think that would be easy, but it is not. I only wish I had taken some pictures of the view looking down at some of the areas I traversed. From that vantage point, one can truly see how steep and treacherous they are.
As luck would have it, a thunderstorm rolled in and that last mile took its’ toll and my companion sprained his ankle on the last push to the falls, but still made it to the top. The walk down was worse for him and wearing a soft-soled shoe did not allow him to walk directly onto the numerous large roots crisscrossing the path like I could. The rocks too were now quite slippery and a little past the log bridge closest to the falls, we decided to part so that I could return with shoes that would allow him an easier return. Knowing that you have zero cell service and that if you are injured on this mountain you and only you and/or your fellow hikers are responsible for getting you out forces you to make drastic decisions. Keep this in mind when you decide to hike this trail.
In the second thunderstorm of the day, I made it out the last 2.8 miles in about 70 minutes and then returned to reach my companion at about the 1.3 mile mark. I was never so glad to return to our car that second time. Our hiking trip started with us leaving the car at 8:45 a.m. with lots and lots of stops for pictures of plants, animals, and scenery and talking with other hikers to return for the second time to our car almost 10 hours later. Yes, 10 hours with only a half an hour rest at the falls.
If after reading this you still decide to hike this trail, take this advice. Start early. If you’re starting out later than noon, bring one waterproof flashlight per hiker. I’ve read several blogs about people that returned in the dark with only one small headlamp for the entire group. Plus too it can get quite dark when a thunderstorm rolls in. Wear hiking shoes. Not gym shoes, not fad shoes…real stiff hard-soled hiking shoes. Bring at least one walking/hiking stick per person. Bring enough water. We had 2 liters per person and could have used an extra liter. I left all the water that we still had with my companion when we parted and still brought back more for us when I returned. If you’re bringing small children with you, bear in mind you will be carrying them out when you return. Just remember, that first mile and a half of the trail is deceivingly easy and that last mile will test every fiber of your being. I trained for this trail for over a month on a treadmill at a 15% grade and trust me; that was not enough.
The good side? Met a lot of nice people, spectacular scenery, beautiful flora and fauna including blooming Rhododendrons, Orchids, many wildflowers, Deer, Turkey, and Salamanders. The best part was the bragging rights. Telling serious hikers that you made it up Ramsey Cascades did earn a lot of respect. Would I do it again? Most likely not, however, we are next talking about hiking Gregory’s Bald when the Rhododendron’s bloom. If you still want to hike the Ramsey Cascades Trail after reading this, be psychologically and physically prepared. It is challenging. You can’t say you haven’t been warned.
Everyone says this trail is longer than 8 miles. Believe them. First of all, I don’t think the measurements take into consideration the elevation change. That right there adds almost another mile on to the roundtrip total. Even though we looked at the trail on satellite images and determined approximately where the two single log bridges were—one at about the half-way point and the second at about the ¾ mark—I totally forgot this due to the severity of the hike when arriving at the second bridge. You may think you’ve survived the worse—what has been referred to in other hiking blogs as the “Staircases of Death”—but you haven’t seen anything yet. That last mile is a hell unto itself. A 969 foot elevation gain for a grade of 18%...over some of the biggest boulders and rocks and narrow trails you will ever see in the Smokies. There’s no shame in turning around at this point; the falls are pretty, but in my opinion, they are not worth that last mile to see them. And don’t forget at this point, you still need to walk back out. You may think that would be easy, but it is not. I only wish I had taken some pictures of the view looking down at some of the areas I traversed. From that vantage point, one can truly see how steep and treacherous they are.
As luck would have it, a thunderstorm rolled in and that last mile took its’ toll and my companion sprained his ankle on the last push to the falls, but still made it to the top. The walk down was worse for him and wearing a soft-soled shoe did not allow him to walk directly onto the numerous large roots crisscrossing the path like I could. The rocks too were now quite slippery and a little past the log bridge closest to the falls, we decided to part so that I could return with shoes that would allow him an easier return. Knowing that you have zero cell service and that if you are injured on this mountain you and only you and/or your fellow hikers are responsible for getting you out forces you to make drastic decisions. Keep this in mind when you decide to hike this trail.
In the second thunderstorm of the day, I made it out the last 2.8 miles in about 70 minutes and then returned to reach my companion at about the 1.3 mile mark. I was never so glad to return to our car that second time. Our hiking trip started with us leaving the car at 8:45 a.m. with lots and lots of stops for pictures of plants, animals, and scenery and talking with other hikers to return for the second time to our car almost 10 hours later. Yes, 10 hours with only a half an hour rest at the falls.
If after reading this you still decide to hike this trail, take this advice. Start early. If you’re starting out later than noon, bring one waterproof flashlight per hiker. I’ve read several blogs about people that returned in the dark with only one small headlamp for the entire group. Plus too it can get quite dark when a thunderstorm rolls in. Wear hiking shoes. Not gym shoes, not fad shoes…real stiff hard-soled hiking shoes. Bring at least one walking/hiking stick per person. Bring enough water. We had 2 liters per person and could have used an extra liter. I left all the water that we still had with my companion when we parted and still brought back more for us when I returned. If you’re bringing small children with you, bear in mind you will be carrying them out when you return. Just remember, that first mile and a half of the trail is deceivingly easy and that last mile will test every fiber of your being. I trained for this trail for over a month on a treadmill at a 15% grade and trust me; that was not enough.
The good side? Met a lot of nice people, spectacular scenery, beautiful flora and fauna including blooming Rhododendrons, Orchids, many wildflowers, Deer, Turkey, and Salamanders. The best part was the bragging rights. Telling serious hikers that you made it up Ramsey Cascades did earn a lot of respect. Would I do it again? Most likely not, however, we are next talking about hiking Gregory’s Bald when the Rhododendron’s bloom. If you still want to hike the Ramsey Cascades Trail after reading this, be psychologically and physically prepared. It is challenging. You can’t say you haven’t been warned.
Written 22 July 2018
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Ms.LoveTravel
Knoxville, TN955 contributions
Jul 2016 • Couples
First...the positive. Absolutely a must see waterfall (like a little Niagra Falls in our neck of the woods). There is a large smooth rock there if you need a rest and snack before you make your way back down...take time as it is BEAUTIFUL!
...and the ugly...
My husband and I completed 50 miles hiked in The Smokies with this 8 mile, 2190 feet elevation gain. YES, it is classified as strenuous and by definition: requiring or showing great energy and effort, is spot on. It will put strains on your knees, hips, and lower back due to the amount of hours you are hiking up or down at almost a 45 degree angle over rocks. What should have been a 3-4 hour hike for us turned into 6 hours due to a bear on the way up and solid rain for the 4 miles down causing slippery rock. If you are not athletic, over 50, etc. I strongly suggest you train on an Elliptical, both forwards and backwards, at the gym before attempting this hike. On a funny note: hikers, who have reached the top and coming down as you go up, will tell you on the last two miles only a half mile left to go, if you ask! (probably to help you keep going - ha!). Upon leaving this hike we drove over to Newport to Carver's Apple Barn and had Fried Chicken...you will be hungry when you finish! ;)
...and the ugly...
My husband and I completed 50 miles hiked in The Smokies with this 8 mile, 2190 feet elevation gain. YES, it is classified as strenuous and by definition: requiring or showing great energy and effort, is spot on. It will put strains on your knees, hips, and lower back due to the amount of hours you are hiking up or down at almost a 45 degree angle over rocks. What should have been a 3-4 hour hike for us turned into 6 hours due to a bear on the way up and solid rain for the 4 miles down causing slippery rock. If you are not athletic, over 50, etc. I strongly suggest you train on an Elliptical, both forwards and backwards, at the gym before attempting this hike. On a funny note: hikers, who have reached the top and coming down as you go up, will tell you on the last two miles only a half mile left to go, if you ask! (probably to help you keep going - ha!). Upon leaving this hike we drove over to Newport to Carver's Apple Barn and had Fried Chicken...you will be hungry when you finish! ;)
Written 28 July 2016
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
RamanJattana
Northville, MI11 contributions
Sept 2014 • Friends
This was my very first hiking experience and turned out to be really awesome! Ramsay Cascades trail round trip was approximately 8 miles but appeared even longer. This trail has all the flavors; log bridges, rock climbing, water streams and steep paths. Though this trail is very exhausting but the waterfalls at the end of trail is worth this much pain. Very refreshing and one can easily forget all of the tiredness after reaching at waterfalls. It took us around 2.5 hours while going up and we came back in 1.5 hrs. Carry water bottles plus energy bars and avoid carrying bulky backpacks. Overall wonderful experience!
Written 13 October 2014
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Do you feel this trip is dangerous in any way? Coming the week after Christmas and told my parents I wanted to do the trail with my boyfriend and she is against it because what if I fall and am stuck out there. She say probably no cell phone service.
"How am I going to be rescued!" LOL...did I mention I was 44 and the bf is 50. I just wanted to put her mind at ease.
Written 11 November 2016
All trails are rated intermediate to difficult. We always bring a backpack full of snacks and water along with some basic medical supplies. You just have to watch your footing and be careful!
Written 16 May 2017
If we only have one day to do a hike in the Great Smokies, what hike would be best? We are in good shape, and looking for a hike that is no more than 8-9 miles. Thanks!
Written 9 April 2015
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