Roadside waterfall and river gorge featuring powerful whitewater, dramatic rock formations, and a popular scenic overlook along a mountain drive.
Accessible from a roadside parking area on Little River Road
Best viewed during daylight hours
Great Smoky Mountains National Park parking tag required for vehicles parked longer than 15 minutes
How to Get There
From Townsend, TN (8 mi): Take Little River Road east into Great Smoky Mountains National Park, continue approximately 8 miles past the Townsend Wye and Metcalf Bottoms area, and arrive at the roadside parking area beside the waterfall.
Overview
The Sinks is one of the most accessible and powerful waterfalls in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Unlike many of the park's waterfalls, which require a hike to reach, this dramatic cascade can be viewed just steps from the roadway. The entire flow of the Little River narrows and plunges through a rocky channel before churning into a deep pool below, creating a spectacular display of rushing whitewater. The surrounding river gorge, enormous boulders, and forested landscape make it a favorite stop for photographers, sightseeing travelers, and anyone exploring the scenic Little River Road corridor.
The waterfall also has an unusual history tied to the region's logging era. During the late nineteenth century, loggers used the Little River to transport timber downstream. After a massive logjam blocked the river, workers used dynamite to clear the obstruction. The explosion altered the river's course and helped create the waterfall seen today. While the site is undeniably beautiful, the powerful currents and hidden undertows have made it one of the most dangerous swimming locations in the park. Visitors are encouraged to enjoy the views from designated overlook areas while experiencing one of the Smokies' most fascinating natural and historical landmarks.
This article uses material from the Wikipedia article on the https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Great_Smoky_Mountains_National_Park and official National Park Service and regional tourism pages for The Sinks, which are released under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share-Alike License 3.0.
