35. Hen Wallow Falls via Gabes Mountain Trail

Hen Wallow Falls via Gabes Mountain Trail

Hen Wallow Falls, accessible via the Gabes Mountain Trail in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, offers hikers a rewarding journey to a stunning 90-foot waterfall. This out-and-back trail spans approximately 4.4 miles roundtrip, taking 3-4 hours to complete, and is rated as moderate due to its steady elevation gain and rugged terrain. The path winds through a lush forest, featuring streams, historical remnants, and the dramatic cascade of the falls themselves. Foot traffic is typically light, making it an ideal escape for those seeking solitude in nature. Highlights include the waterfall, babbling streams, and subtle historical elements that hint at the area’s past human habitation.

Historical Background

The Gabes Mountain Trail and Hen Wallow Falls are nestled in the northeastern section of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, near the community of Cosby, Tennessee. This area was once home to early settlers and loggers before the park’s establishment in 1934. The trail itself was constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the mid-1930s, shortly after the park’s official founding, as part of efforts to develop recreational infrastructure. Originally known as the Messer Trail, it served as a route through the rugged terrain of Snake Den Mountain. The name “Gabes Mountain” likely derives from early Appalachian nomenclature, possibly referencing a local figure or geographical feature, though exact origins are obscure in historical records.

Hen Wallow Falls gets its whimsical name from the natural “wallow” or depression where hens (likely referring to wild turkeys or grouse) were observed bathing in the mud near the creek’s base in the early days of exploration. The falls are formed by Hen Wallow Creek, which starts as a narrow stream, only about two feet wide at the top, before fanning out dramatically to around 20 feet at the bottom, creating a fan-shaped cascade over layered rock. This geological feature is a result of the park’s ancient metamorphic rocks, shaped by millions of years of erosion from the Appalachian uplift.

Historically, the Cosby area was inhabited by Cherokee people before European settlers arrived in the 19th century. By the early 1900s, small farms and homesteads dotted the landscape, evidenced today by remnants like old rock walls along the trail. Logging operations cleared much of the old-growth forest, but the park’s protection has allowed secondary forests to thrive, including hemlocks, rhododendrons, and hardwoods. The trail’s construction by the CCC not only provided jobs during the Great Depression but also preserved access to natural wonders like the falls, contributing to the park’s status as the most visited national park in the U.S.

In modern times, the trail remains a testament to the park’s biodiversity. It’s home to a variety of flora, including wildflowers like trillium and violets in spring, and fauna such as black bears, salamanders, and songbirds. The area’s relative seclusion compared to busier spots like Cades Cove makes it a hidden gem for hikers. However, visitors should note that the hemlock woolly adelgid has impacted some trees, altering the forest canopy in recent years. Despite this, the trail offers a glimpse into the resilient ecology of the Smokies, where elevation changes from around 2,000 feet at the trailhead to over 3,000 feet create diverse microhabitats.

Getting to Gabes Mountain Trail Trailhead

Reaching the Gabes Mountain Trailhead is straightforward but requires navigating rural roads. The trailhead is located near the entrance to Cosby Campground in the northeastern part of the park.

• From Gatlinburg, TN: Start at the junction of US 441 and US 321 (Light 3). Head east on US 321 for 18.2 miles until you reach a dead-end at TN-32. Turn right onto TN-32 south and drive 1.2 miles to the park entrance sign on the right. Enter the park via Cosby Park Road and continue for 2 miles. The trailhead is on the right, just before the Cosby Picnic Area.
• From Knoxville, TN: Take I-40 east to Exit 440 (Wilton Springs Road). Turn right onto US 321 east and follow it for about 20 miles through Hartford and into Cosby. Turn right onto TN-32 south, then immediately right into the park entrance. Proceed 2 miles to the trailhead.
• From Asheville, NC: Take I-40 west to Exit 20 (US 276). Follow US 276 north to TN-32 north, then turn left toward Cosby. After about 15 miles, turn left into the park entrance and drive 2 miles.
• GPS Coordinates: Approximately 35.75798711476186, -83.20914590576487

Parking

Parking is conveniently located at the Cosby Picnic Area, directly across from the Gabes Mountain Trailhead. This large paved lot accommodates dozens of vehicles, including spaces for RVs, though larger vehicles should arrive early during peak seasons (spring and fall) when spots fill up by mid-morning.

• Overflow parking is available at the nearby Cosby Campground entrance if the picnic area is full.
• No overnight parking without a camping permit; vehicles left after hours may be towed.
• Accessibility: Several spots are designated for those with disabilities, close to picnic tables and restrooms.

Always lock your vehicle and avoid leaving valuables visible, as break-ins can occur in remote areas. In winter, the lot may be icy, so use caution.

Parking Tag

A parking tag is required for any vehicle parked in Great Smoky Mountains National Park for more than 15 minutes. These can be purchased online or at visitor centers for a small fee, with proceeds supporting park maintenance.

• Daily: $5.00
• Weekly: $15.00
• Annual: $40.00 (not available online).

No entrance fee is charged for the park itself, but the tag system helps manage visitation impacts. To avoid parking stress, consider using shuttle services offered by local outfitters. These shuttles drop off and pick up at the trailhead, allowing you to focus on the hike without worrying about your vehicle. During weekends and holidays, expect crowds; mid-week hikes offer a quieter experience.

Restrooms

Restroom facilities are available at the Cosby Campground and Picnic Area, a short walk from the trailhead. These are vault toilets, clean but basic, without running water. They are open year-round, weather permitting.

• Locations: One set at the picnic pavilion, another near the campground host site.
• Accessibility: ADA-compliant options are present.
• Alternatives: If closed, the nearest flush toilets are at the Sugarlands Visitor Center, about 30 miles away.

Plan accordingly, as there are no facilities along the trail. Follow Leave No Trace principles for any back country needs.

Read: Back country Regulations

No Pets

Pets are strictly prohibited on the Gabes Mountain Trail and most trails in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This rule protects wildlife, prevents disease transmission, and ensures hiker safety. Dogs, even on leashes, can disturb sensitive habitats or provoke encounters with bears and other animals. If traveling with pets, consider boarding options in nearby Cosby or Gatlinburg.

• Allowed areas: Pets may accompany you in campgrounds, picnic areas, and along roads, but must be leashed (no longer than 6 feet) at all times.
• Exceptions: Service animals are permitted with proper documentation. Emotional support animals are considered pets and are only allowed where pets are allowed.
• Buildings: Pets are not allowed in visitor centers or any other building in the park.
• Penalties: Violations can result in large fines.

Dogs are allowed on two trails, and two trails only, in Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Gatlinburg Trail and Oconaluftee River Trail.

Gabes Mountain Trail Description

The Gabes Mountain Trail to Hen Wallow Falls is a classic Smoky Mountains hike, featuring a mix of steady ascents, forested serenity, and a rewarding waterfall payoff. With 900 feet of total elevation gain, the path climbs the northern flank of Snake Den Mountain, offering a moderate challenge suitable for fit beginners and experienced hikers alike. The surface is a natural forest trail with prominent roots, rocks, and occasional mud, sturdy hiking boots are recommended.

Starting from the trailhead, the path immediately begins a gentle uphill through a canopy of eastern hemlocks, yellow poplars, and dense rhododendron thickets. Ferns carpet the understory, creating a verdant tunnel effect. In spring, wildflowers like trillium and lady’s slippers bloom along the edges, while fall brings vibrant foliage in shades of red and gold.

• Mile 0.4: A side trail branches right to Cosby Campground. Continue straight, and soon cross Rock Creek via a log footbridge. The creek’s gentle flow provides ambient sound and photo opportunities.
• Mile 0.7: Ignore a faint social trail on the right; stay on the main path. The climb intensifies slightly here, with switchbacks easing the grade.
• Mile 1.0: Reach Messer Gap, a subtle saddle. A vague trail leads right to an old gravesite, explore at your own risk, but respect historical sites. Just beyond, spot remnants of a stone wall from a pre-park homestead on the left, a poignant reminder of settler life.
• Miles 1.0-2.1: The trail continues its ascent, passing through mixed hardwoods. Listen for birds like warblers or owls, and watch for salamanders in damp areas. The forest thins occasionally, offering glimpses of surrounding ridges.
• Mile 2.1: Arrive at the signed spur trail to the falls. This 0.1-mile descent is steep and slippery, use caution, especially after rain. At the base, Hen Wallow Falls cascades 90 feet in a fan shape, with a small cave to the right inviting exploration. In winter, the falls may freeze into intricate ice formations; in summer, the mist provides cooling relief.

Return the way you came, descending gradually. Total time varies with pace and stops, allow extra for photography or picnicking at the falls.

Safety tips: Carry water (at least 2 liters), snacks, a map, and bear spray. Check weather, as flash floods can occur near creeks. Cell service is non-existent in most areas of the park; inform someone of your plans.

Nearby Points of Interest

The Cosby area abounds with additional attractions, making it easy to extend your visit. This quieter park corner offers diverse hikes and scenic spots.

• Maddron Bald Trail: Continuing past the falls on Gabes Mountain Trail leads to this 7.2-mile loop through old-growth forests, featuring massive tulip trees and views from Maddron Bald.
• Mount Cammerer via Low Gap Trail: A challenging 11-mile roundtrip to a historic fire tower with 360-degree panoramas, starting nearby.
• Mouse Creek Falls via Big Creek Trail: An easy 4-mile hike to a 45-foot waterfall, located just east in the Big Creek area.
• Cosby Nature Trail: A short 1-mile loop from the picnic area, perfect for families, showcasing streams and wildflowers.
• Cosby Campground and Picnic Area: Ideal for camping or picnicking, with fire rings, grills, and creek access for fishing (permit required).
• Snake Den Ridge Trail: Connects to Gabes Mountain for longer backpacking options, leading to Inadu Knob.
• Hartford, TN: Outside the park, visit for whitewater rafting on the Pigeon River or local eateries.

These spots highlight the Cosby region’s natural beauty and low crowds, enhancing any trip to Hen Wallow Falls.