You may have seen our Middle Tennessee waterfalls road trip, and thought, wait what about us on the east?! Fear not, friends - how in the world can we forget the east side of the state?! Anyone who lives in the east and is searching for Tennessee waterfalls, you've come to the right place. Filled with ravines, rivers, mountains, and hikers with a thirst for natural beauty, we really can't ignore this little piece of southern paradise. We've pulled together a solid Saturday of waterfall lovin' - right here in one Tennessee waterfalls road trip. Consider this to be one of the best scenic road trips in Tennessee and start your engines.

To find the entire itinerary of this waterfall road trip in Tennessee, check out our map.

Who is ready to see some of the best waterfalls in Tennessee?

1. Cataract Falls, Gatlinburg

You can see Cataract Falls after a half-mile hike into the Great Smoky Mountains. It's one of the easiest hikes in the area, plus? As one of the most commonly overlooked falls in the park, you're sure to have a quiet day in the forest. This short and sweet hike is located behind the Sugarlands Visitor Center where I have spent alot of time. So whenever there are waterfalls near me, I am going to go on a hike to find them, and this one didn't disappoint.

To learn more about Cataract Falls, check out our feature article. It is sure to be a wonderful and peaceful hike that is family-friendly. If you want to check out this hike, watch this Adventuring in the Moment video before you go:

2. Rainbow Falls, Gatlinburg

You'll follow the creek for the majority of the almost three-mile hike, but make sure you bring a solid pair of shoes! It's a rocky road (ha.) and is a bit more difficult for the tiniest of hikers.

To learn more about this beautiful waterfall in east Tennessee and to see what Rainbow Falls looks like in the winter, check out this fun video about Rainbow Falls from Roaming with the Ramsays:

3. Grotto Falls, Gatlinburg

A twenty-five-foot waterfall and a three-mile trail? Not too shabby if you ask us! #4 on our list is a shoo-in for families with kids who are looking for just a slight bit of outdoorsy adventure.

To learn more about this beautiful waterfall in east Tennessee, check out our article on Grotto Falls. You can also check out this video from Adventuring in the Moment:

4. Baskins Creek Falls, Gatlinburg

Located on the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, Baskins Creek Falls only takes a short hike before you're set for the view of your life. Make sure to go during autumn - the colors will drive you craaaaaazy for Tennessee!

To learn more about this beautiful waterfall in east Tennessee, make sure to read our article about Baskins Creek Falls.

5. Abrams Falls, Townsend

Although a short little waterfall (only 20 feet high!), it has an EXTREME amount of gushing water that is sure to put a bit of spring in your step - and some spray in your hair.

To learn more about this beautiful waterfall in east Tennessee, check out our coverage of Abrams Falls.

6. Ramsey Cascades, Gatlinburg

One - just look at that picture up there. Really, just look at it. Great. Fantastic. But it comes at a price - the hike is a strenuous one, so bring a first aid kit, your best friend, and lots of snacks. To learn more about this beautiful waterfall in east Tennessee, check out our article on Ramsey Cascades.

So, east Tennessee: Do you feel like you've won the lottery here? Because these are some of the most beautiful Tennessee waterfalls we've seen... leave your thoughts in the comments section below! Since all of these wonderful waterfalls are located around Gatlinburg, why not make a home base for your adventures in the Smokies, and book a night or two at the Nestled Inn?

There are lots of other amazing things to see and do in the Great Smoky Mountains; I would also recommend a hike to Alum Cave for an awesome well rounded trip.