Located in the Tremont section of the Great Smoky Mountains near Cades Cove in Tennessee, Spruce Flats Falls is a lesser-known though beautiful waterfall. It’s 30-feet in height, but measures 60-feet when connected sections are included.

A two mile (roundtrip) trail with helpful signage provides visitors with a scenic, albeit moderately difficult, hike, which includes elevation changes and rugged surface conditions. Here’s an example of what to expect –

Despite the need to remain attentive to ever-changing trail conditions, various sights along the way provided interesting distractions. Here are a few:

And a few more…

Finally, Spruce Flats Falls

The sound of distant running water grew more prominent as I increased proximity to Spruce Flats Falls. Turning the last corner along the trail, I was pleased to discover that I was the only person on site! For over an hour, I enjoyed the unobstructed sounds of nature and was able to take several photographs of the area – without people climbing around.

This all changed when, as I prepared to leave, the first of several groups of elementary school students on a field trip appeared. As is the case with many attractions in the Great Smoky Mountains, tourist destinations can become quite busy, so an early arrival time is recommended.

These pictures are available in my gallery at Pixels on a variety of print types:

Here’s a short video of Spruce Flats Falls –

If you’d like to learn more about trails to hike & sights to see, then visit the Great Smoky Mountains National Park Service. Enjoy the great outdoors!