Maryville, TN – A 3-year-old child was airlifted from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park on New Year’s Eve following a fall at Abrams Falls. According to Dave Barak, a public affairs specialist for the park, the child fell from a bridge and struck his head at the popular hiking destination.
Emergency responders quickly arrived on the scene, and the child was transported by helicopter to the University of Tennessee Medical Center. The Lifestar helicopter, which was deployed for the rescue, landed in Cades Cove to facilitate the transfer.
At this time, details on the child’s condition have not been released. Park officials are not providing further information on the incident.
Abrams Falls, located in the park’s Cades Cove area, is a popular destination for visitors, though its rugged terrain and cascading waters can present hazards for those exploring the area.
This incident highlights the importance of caution when visiting national parks, especially around dangerous features like bridges and waterfalls.
