Mingo Falls, Waterfall in Qualla Boundary, United States.

Mingo Falls drops 120 feet (37 m) on Mingo Creek in the Qualla Boundary, near Cherokee, North Carolina. The water falls as a thin white ribbon that widens into a broader cascade and splits into several streams over the lower rocks. The rock face is steep and layered, with patches of green moss, and trees border the falls on both sides.

The waterfall sits on land managed by the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, who maintain this natural site within their sovereign territory adjacent to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Its location reflects the ongoing importance of such places to Cherokee communities.

The name Mingo translates to Big Bear in the Cherokee language and reflects the heritage of the indigenous people in the surrounding Qualla Boundary. The falls are part of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians' territory, where this name continues to carry meaning for visitors and residents today.

Reach the trailhead by driving south on US-441 from the Oconaluftee Visitor Center toward Cherokee, turning left onto Big Cove Road at the second intersection, then left at the first stop sign and on for 4.5 miles (7.2 km) to Mingo Falls Campground. The Pigeon Creek Trail from there is 0.4 miles (0.64 km) long and moderately difficult. No permits are needed to enter the Qualla Boundary or hike the trail.

Mingo Falls is among the tallest waterfalls in the southern Appalachians, reaching 120 feet (37 m). Its official name comes from the Cherokee word mingo, meaning Big Bear, and it is also called Big Bear Falls. The falls drop on Mingo Creek in the Lower Raven Fork watershed before that stream reaches the Oconaluftee River.