Waterfalls are one of the most popular natural wonders in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Most people want to see the popular ones, like Laurel Falls or Grotto Falls, but there are some lesser known waterfalls that are just as beautiful. If you want to get out on the trails that are more off the beaten path while still enjoying everything the Smokies have to offer, you should hike to Huskey Branch Falls! This waterfall is in the Elkmont area of the park, and we promise you won’t want to miss it. Find out how to get to the falls below:
| Round Trip Length | 4.4 Miles |
| Elevation Gain | 383 Feet |
| Trail Highlights | River, Wildflowers, History |
Trailhead
The trail you’ll take to get to Huskey Branch Falls is Little River Trail. To get to the trailhead, you’ll start at the Sugarlands Visitor Center, and drive on Little River Road for about 4.9 miles until you reach Elkmont Campground. Turn left onto Elkmont Road, and drive about 1.4 miles to reach the entrance of the campground. Continue to the left another 0.6 mile until you reach the Little River Trail parking lot.
Trail Description
At the beginning of Little River Trail, you’ll see an area known as Millionaires’ Row. This is where vacation cottages were back in the heyday of when wealthy Knoxville families took weekend trips to the Smokies. There are stone gate entrances and driveways covered in moss. You can actually continue past the stone entrances to find remains of old homes, Spence Cabin, and the Troll Bridge! This trail is actually close to Elkmont Ghost Town, which is another area you’ll want to explore!
If you continue on Little River Trail, you’ll notice that the Little River is to your left. The hiking trail parallels the river the entire way up the mountain, so you’ll have gorgeous views all along your hike! The path is worn and easy to follow. As you continue along the trail and look up to the right, you’ll see old forest growth and some unique rock formations. If you’re hiking in the spring, you’ll spot all kinds of wildflowers along the trail, including trillium, blue phlox, and violets.
About 2.2 miles into the hike, you’ll notice the path narrowing. You’ll probably hear Huskey Branch Falls before you see it, especially if it’s been rainy before you hike. Huskey Branch Falls is technically a cascade, but many people consider it a small waterfall. It stands at 20 feet, and a wooden footbridge allows hikers to walk over the cascade and continue the hike.
You could turn around after enjoying Huskey Branch Falls, but if you want to continue, hike another 0.3 mile. You’ll find yourself at the Cumberland Gap Trail junction. To reach Huskey Gap Trail, you’ll continue straight ahead for another 0.4 mile. You’ll see brief views of the mountains after hiking up to the top of a low ridge. This trail continues for another 2.1 miles.
Now you know what to expect if you want to see Huskey Branch Falls in the Smoky Mountains! This easy trail is the perfect way to get out in the national park and see almost all of the history and natural wonders. Check out these other easy hiking trails for more history, waterfalls, and wooded views in the Smoky Mountains!
