Always worth the drive over the pass (Mingo Falls)

This post was in response to Mingo Falls

We usually stay in Gatlinburg and I always force my husband to go all the way into Cherokee for this short but steep hike for an amazing view. WE last was it about 2pm and the sun angle was perfect for photos. Although you shouldn’t need much hiking gear to get a great view please wear appropriate footwear as flip flops and wet muddy rocks don’t mix well. Another girl on the trail was glad i had a small first aid kit in my “fanny pack” My husband makes fun of me on short walks/hikes but he’s been known to enjoy a granola bar or two out of it. Another short hike with a great waterfall in GSM national park is Laurel Falls which claims to be handicap accessible. I would call the blacktop they’ve put down stroller worthy but wheelchair treacherous, but the short hike is easy to access right off the little river road between the TN visitors center and the entrance to the park from Townsend. Go early in the morning to avoid too many people wading in the water in summer for a good view of the falls and for the maximum chance of spotting a black bear.