About Hen Wallow Falls Trail (Cosby)
Hen Wallow Falls is a good fit for a day when the Gatlinburg side feels too busy. The National Park Service lists the hike at 4.3 miles round trip through hardwood forest with hemlock and rhododendron to a 90-foot waterfall, with some steep sections and switchbacks. Plan on about 600 feet of climbing.
The hike
The trail follows the Gabes Mountain Trail from the Cosby picnic area, climbing through old forest, then drops on a spur to the base of the falls. The cascade is a slender, tall ribbon that is strongest in spring and after rain, and quieter in late summer. The rocks are slick, so stay back from the water.
When to go
Spring wildflowers and early summer flow are best, and Cosby is usually quieter than the park's main entrances in October, though weekends still draw hikers. Winter can freeze the falls, so bring traction.
Getting there
Cosby is on the northeast side of the park, off I-40 at exit 435 via TN-32. Follow signs to the Cosby picnic area and campground. Plan on a parking tag ($5 daily, $15 weekly, $40 annual) if you will be parked longer than 15 minutes. Federal passes do not substitute for it, and a screenshot will not do; the tag must be displayed in the vehicle.
Know before you go
Bring water and bug repellent in summer. Pets are not allowed. Black bears are present, so keep food secured. Check the Cosby area page for current conditions.
Pair it with
Other hikes in the same part of the park:
- Ramsey Cascades: an 8-mile round trip to a tall waterfall
- Porters Creek Trail: about 4 miles round trip to Fern Branch Falls
- Cosby Nature Trail: an easy short loop
Planning and safety
Give yourself more time than the mileage suggests. Rocks, roots, stream crossings and short climbs all slow the pace, and most people stop often. An early start gives you the quietest trail and the best chance at a parking space.
Check conditions the morning you go. The park posts trail and road closures and cautions, and storms, ice and Hurricane Helene repairs can change access with little notice. Carry water, a rain layer and a map, keep a safe distance from bears and elk, and pack out everything you bring in.
Good to know
- How long is Hen Wallow Falls Trail (Cosby)?
- Hen Wallow Falls Trail (Cosby) is 2.15 miles one way (4.3 miles round trip), with about 600 feet of climbing. It is rated moderate.
- Are dogs allowed on this trail?
- No. Inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park, dogs are allowed only on the Gatlinburg Trail and the Oconaluftee River Trail.
- Do I need a parking tag to hike here?
- A Park It Forward parking tag ($5 a day, $15 a week or $40 a year) is required for any vehicle parked more than 15 minutes inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Entry is free, and federal passes such as America the Beautiful do not replace the tag.
