Water Safety in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park

May 25, 2008

While visiting the Great Smoky Mountains in the spring and summer, it can get very hot. The streams and waterfalls of the park seem like an excellent way to cool off but,water recreation in the National Park is not recommended and you need to use extreme caution. Downing is the leading cause of death in the park. If you get injured while in the National Park, depending on where you are, medical assistance could be hours away. It is especially important to not climb on the rocks near waterfalls, and use extreme caution while walking along riverbanks, because these rocks are slippery due to mist and algae. If you do decide to get in and cool off, do no jump or dive into the water. The bottom of the water is dark and rocks may not be visible from the surface. When it comes to water recreation, use extreme caution and common sense. For more safety tips click here.