Rock Slab Falls

Swain County, North Carolina

Your visit at a glance

Waterfall height: Not recorded
Location: Swain County, North Carolina
Access status: National park trails; strenuous 6-mile return; parking tag required
The walk: About 6 miles return
Ground & access: Steep, rocky trail that is slippery when wet. The Forney Creek crossing may not be possible in high water. The hike back is all uphill.

From the west end of the parking lot, take Forney Ridge Trail down. At 0.1 miles keep left on Forney Ridge Trail. In about 1.1 miles more, turn right on Forney Creek Trail, which descends steeply to a tributary and follows it to Forney Creek. Cross Forney Creek at the confluence, where there is a cascade, and follow the creek downstream less than half a mile to backcountry campsite 68. The falls, also called Forney Creek Cascades, are just past the campsite. Return the same way.

Plan your visit

Forney Ridge parking area at the end of Clingmans Dome Road, Forney Ridge Trail and Forney Creek Trail down to Forney Creek and campsite 68

Waterfall Hero lists 6 miles and Rich Stevenson calls it a strenuous 6 mile round trip. The return climbs about 2,000 feet.

Steep, rocky trail that is slippery when wet. The Forney Creek crossing may not be possible in high water. The hike back is all uphill.

Where to start

Forney Ridge parking area at the end of Clingmans Dome Road, 7 miles from US 441 at Newfound Gap. Arrive early in tourist season. Trailhead coordinates: 35.55685, -83.49431.

Timing & water

Clingmans Dome Road is closed in winter, according to both route sources. The National Park Service closure page does not list Forney Ridge or Forney Creek trails.

Before you go

A Great Smoky Mountains parking tag is required for any vehicle parked longer than 15 minutes: $5 daily, $15 weekly or $40 annual. Dogs are not allowed.

Visitor information

Visit sources

More waterfalls nearby

Within 40 straight-line miles. Road and trail distances will differ.

Explore North Carolina

Waterfall location

Swain County, North Carolina.

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