A gorgeous hike to Hen Wallow Falls in the midst of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Trek through a lush hemlock and rhododendron forest to a stunning 90-foot tall waterfall with a swimming hole ideal for wading.
Start your adventure by parking in the Cosby Picnic Area Parking Lot near the entrance of the Cosby Campground. (127 Cosby Picnic Area Rd, Cosby, TN 37722.) Then backtrack through the parking lot about 100 yards until you see the sign marking the start of Gabes Mountain Trail.
The trek to Hen Wallow Falls and back is 4.4 miles, takes 3-4 hours, and is of moderate difficulty. Be aware of some very steep areas on the trail and some places with precarious footing - so wear sturdy shoes. The waterfall is beautiful, though, and well-worth the climb.