Remote Waterfalls & Swimming Holes

A one-way shuttle hike to pristine falls you’ll have to yourselves.

Duration: Half to full day
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: ~3.5 miles, one way
Departs: Gatlinburg, TN

Overview

SMG runs this outing with two vehicles and two guides so we can hike one way. Starting at about 5,200 feet, we descend into remote old-growth forest on a path used by settlers and Native Americans before the park was formed.

Over roughly 3.5 miles, we scramble to rarely visited swimming holes and waterfalls. Imagine a dip in a crystal-clear pool on a summer day, then drying off over fresh fruit. We finish through the area where the Chimney Tops II fire ignited in 2016.

Highlights

Private-feeling waterfalls
Swimming holes
Old-growth forest
Two guides, two vehicles

Pricing

$310 for 1–3 guests
+$55 per additional guest
Shuttle fee: $55 (Gatlinburg or local lodging pickup)

Included

Professional, certified local guide
Snacks and water

Before you go

After booking you’ll receive preparation guidance, a packing list, and meeting instructions. All participants sign a waiver, and multi-day guests complete a short registration and health form.

Read our trip-planning guide

More day hikes

View all

Day Hikes
Appalachian Waterfalls
A gentle introduction to the Smokies, ending at a quiet waterfall.
Duration
~4 hours
Difficulty
Easy
From$180 for 1–3 guests
View & book
Day Hikes
Family Fun Nature Scavenger Hunt
An interactive, educational nature walk built for little adventurers.
Duration
~2 hours
Difficulty
Easy
From$165 for 1–3 guests
View & book
Day Hikes
The Mountaineers Way
An easy, historical walk to see how the early settlers lived.
Duration
~3 hours
Difficulty
Easy–Moderate
From$180 for 1–3 guests
View & book