The Sinks: Dramatic Waterfall & River Scenery in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

For guests who want to experience the power of the Smokies without committing to a long hike, The Sinks is a memorable stop along Little River Road in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

The river narrows dramatically at this point, creating a powerful cascade through the rocks and a deep pool below. A short paved path leads from the parking area to the overlook, making it one of the more accessible scenic stops along this section of the park.

About The Sinks

The Sinks is a popular waterfall and river feature along Little River Road in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The name comes from the unusual way the river appears to disappear into the rock formations before continuing downstream.

A paved walkway leads from the parking area to an overlook where visitors can see the rushing water, rock formations, and surrounding forest. The nearby Little River Trail also begins in the area for visitors who want a longer walk.

The Sinks is particularly striking after periods of rainfall, when the river can become much more powerful. The same conditions that make the scenery dramatic, however, can also make the area significantly more dangerous.

Why Guests Love It

Big scenery without a long hike
The main viewpoint is reached by a short paved path, making it possible to enjoy impressive Smoky Mountain scenery without spending hours on the trail.

The river is the star
The rushing water moving through the narrow rock formations creates a dramatic natural landscape that photographs beautifully.

Easy to combine with a scenic drive
The Sinks works naturally as one stop along Little River Road, where families can make several scenic and waterfall stops during the same outing.

A memorable Smokies photo stop
The combination of rushing water, rocks, forest, and mountain atmosphere makes this one of the more recognizable scenic locations in the park.

A good place for a short nature break
Families spending several hours driving through the national park can stop, stretch their legs, take in the scenery, and continue exploring.

Insider Tips

• Never enter or swim in the water at The Sinks. Strong currents and hidden underwater hazards make the river extremely dangerous.
• Keep children close and stay on designated paths and viewing areas.
• The river becomes especially powerful after heavy rain, so use extra caution during and after storms.
• The parking area can become busy during peak travel periods, particularly in summer and fall.
• The Sinks is located along Little River Road, so consider combining it with other nearby scenic stops rather than making a separate long drive just for the overlook.
• If you want to explore farther, the Little River Trail begins nearby, but check current trail conditions before setting out.
• Bring comfortable shoes even if you’re only visiting the main overlook.
• Cell service can be limited throughout the national park, so download maps and directions before leaving your cabin.
• Weather and road conditions can change quickly in the mountains. Check current park conditions before your outing.

Stay Hello Sunshine Tip

The Sinks is best treated as one beautiful chapter in a larger Smoky Mountain day. Drive slowly along Little River Road, stop at the overlooks that catch your attention, and give your group time to enjoy the scenery instead of rushing from one destination to another.

After a day exploring the park, return to Sunshine Around the Bend for the comforts you won’t find on the trail: a hot shower, dinner in the gourmet kitchen, a soak in the hot tub, and a quiet evening overlooking the wooded property.