Just outside Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina, on the Cherokee Indian Reservation (Qualla Boundary) is the 120-foot Mingo Falls. It is open every day and there is no charge to visit.
Mingo means ‘big bear’ in the Cherokee language which is why the waterfall is sometimes called Big Bear Falls.
This trip reminded me that you can’t fully trust your GPS. Mine told me to turn too early and take Sherrill Cove Road. Instead, follow signs on Big Cove Road until you see the sign for Mingo Falls Bridge Road over the Raven Fork of the Oconaluftee River. This dead-ends into a parking lot. It is also parking for the Pigeon Creek Trail trailhead.
The hike to the overlook is only a quarter mile; however, it starts with climbing up 160 steps up from the parking area. If it has recently rained, the stairs may be slippery. After that, the ground levels out and it is a quick walk. There are rocks and roots to step over and around though.
At the end of the trail, step onto the wooden bridge over Mingo Creek. With few other hikers during my visit, I was able to take in the sights and sounds of Mingo Falls.
Here you will have unobstructed views of this spectacular waterfall!
Looking for nearby waterfalls? Tom Branch Falls, Indian Creek Falls, and Juney Whank Falls are in the Deep Creek area of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Also, make sure to check out Soco Falls near the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Again, beautiful shots of waterfalls and foliage . These pictures make staying at home a little easier. I’m planning all the trips I will take when I feel safe again. Thank you
Thank you Liz! Glad the photos help a little 🙂