Cliff Branch Falls
Recommended: Good choice based on beauty and access.
Disabled access: Suitable for all visitors.
Waterfallson this site and counting
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Here’s a nice little waterfall that can be quite scenic at times. In spring and after a good rain, it’s especially pretty and photogenic, but in times of normal flow, it’s not all that exciting. The good thing is that you don’t have to hike a long distance to find out. Just slow down your car and look out the window!
(15-01-137051)
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Driving Directions
The waterfall is beside Newfound Gap Road (US 441), north of Cherokee. It’s 6.45 miles north of Oconaluftee Visitor Center and 3.35 miles north of Smokemont Campground. A narrow pullout is on the Oconaluftee River side of the road, opposite the waterfall.
Hiking Directions
If your car is pointed north, look out the driver’s side window.
| Accessibility: | Roadside view |
| County: | Swain |
| River Basin: | Little Tennessee |
| Watercourse: | Cliff Branch |
| Watershed: | Very small |
| Type and Height: | Steep, cascading falls about 18 feet high Height estimated. |
| Landowner: | Great Smoky Mountains NP |
| Beauty Rating: | 2 In the right conditions it’s a 5. |
| Elevation: | 2640 feet |
| USGS Map: | Smokemont |
| Hike Difficulty: | View roadside |
| Hike Distance: | View roadside |
| Waterfall GPS: | 35.5814, -83.35132 |
| Parking GPS: | 35.58148, -83.35101 |
Photo Gallery
Click a photo to enlarge.
