Ramsay Cascades, arguably the best waterfall in the Smokies, can be seen everywhere. Each calendar from Smokies has them. Many drinking machines around Gatlinburg display them. So why should you be bothered to hike 8 miles round-trip to see them? Simply because no pictures can show their real beauty. This hiking trail offers more then just the final Cascade, the path curves around the stream so you can listen to the water bubbling over the stones during nearly the entire journey. I hope you don’t have problems with walking on narrow bridges over the water as you will have to cross three of them. They are not really scary but they are very romantic and perfectly fitting to the scenic nature around.
The path is slightly uphill the first 1.5 miles, the rest is much steeper. When reaching the sign telling you there are 2.5 miles to the end—roughly half way up—believe me, the second half feels much much longer and much, much steeper. However, this should not put you off hiking this trail. Even without much training, it can be done; slowly and with breaks, but it can be done.
There are also old grown up trees along the path, but you will not notice them on the way for the sweat pouring over your eyes. Take your time on the way down and enjoy the view to the stream reflecting the lazy afternoon sun. If you are not hiking every day you will be sore at the end of your journey, and the next day, but the trail is so pretty that all the sweat disappears from your memories and just the impressive waterfall, bubbling stream, and imposing old trees will stay on your mind.
From Gatlinburg turn on traffic light #3 North on US 321 and go approximately 6 miles. Turn right on Greenbrier Cove and follow the little Pigeon river for 3.1 miles, then turn left at Ramsay Prong Road and travel 1.5 miles to the parking area. The trail begins at the back of the parking lot. First bridge to cross is right ahead of you. Good luck and safe return!