Easy Waterfalls for Georgia

Bull Sluice Falls

Posted on February 27, 2017 Written by 4 Comments

Nearby Areas: Pisgah National Forest, Westminster State: Georgia, South Carolina Ease of Trail: Easy

Bull Sluice Falls is more of a rapids, rather than a waterfall, however it is still quite pretty to see. Bull Sluice Falls is located on the Georgia and South Carolina border on the Chattooga River. This waterfall was featured in the film Deliverance.

Be sure to park on the South Carolina side. Follow the paved trail to the left of the Information Station. Then turn right onto the gravel trail and follow it to the observation platform. The trail is a very easy 15 minute walk on a paved trail that will take you to an observation platform. To return to your car, simply turn around and go back the way you came.

There is also another trail that will take you to the water’s edge downstream from the rapids, which can be fun to skip rocks at.

Kayakers and rafters can frequently be seen running this IV+ rapid, which drops 14 feet. We saw several groups both shooting the rapids as well as scouting in advance while we were visiting Bull Sluice Falls.

There is plenty of parking and restroom facilities available, making this a very family friendly stop.

Directions

Go northwest on US Highway 76 from Westminster for 17 miles to the parking area on your right, before the bridge over the Chattanooga River. Park on the SC side at SC/GA line. Follow the paved trail to the left of the Information Station. Turn right onto the gravel trail and follow it to the observation platform.

GPS Coordinates

To the Trailhead:N 34.81473, W 083.30512 (parking lot)

Lover’s Leap/High Falls (at Rock City)

Posted on January 21, 2016 Written by 5 Comments

Nearby Areas: Lookout Mountain State: Georgia Ease of Trail: Easy, Wheelchair Accessible

Love this waterfall! It is inside Rock City, however you can view the falls without going to Rock City. This being said, I still highly recommend going to Rock City as there is so much to do there including nature trails, and caves with stories told in miniature models.

Lover’s Leap gets its name from the Cherokee legend of two young lovers, a brave named Sautee and a beautiful maiden named Nacoochee, from two feuding tribes. According to the legend, Sautee was captured and thrown from the top of Lover’s Leap. Nacoochee, distraught from the loss, jumped to her own death.

High Falls is 140 feet in height. The trail to the waterfall is easy to get to and is stroller and wheelchair accessible, making this waterfall enjoyable by all.

Lover's Leap 2 — View of High Falls from the roadside

Directions

Address: 1400 Patten Road, Lookout Mountain, Georgia 30750

Tallulah Gorge & Falls

Posted on January 21, 2016 Written by 5 Comments

Nearby Areas: Tallulah Falls State: Georgia Ease of Trail: Easy, Moderate, Wheelchair Accessible

Tallulah Gorge is two miles long and nearly 1,000 feet deep. Multiple trails around the park take you to several overlooks. There are several impressive views of the gorge and it’s waterfalls.

There are also exhibits inside the park building that highlight the town, and animals located in the gorge area and the ecosystem.

Several trails are easy to walk with a few moderates. I cannot rate the hike to the gorge floor as I have not hiked it. Some are also wheelchair and stroller accessible. One unusual trail one takes you to a suspension bridge 80 feet above the ground with an amazing view of the waterfalls and river.

You can also obtain a permit to hike to the gorge floor (100 per day, not available during water releases). These are in limited availability, so arrive early to get one.

Park hours are 8 am to dark and there is a $5 parking fee.

Directions

Address: Tallulah Gorge State Park, 338 Jane Hurt Yarn Drive, Tallulah Falls, GA 30573 Directions: From Atlanta: I-85 north to I-985 (I-985 turns into 365), 365 to 441 North, 441 to Tallulah Gorge. Follow signs to interpretive center to Jane Hurt Yarn Drive. From North Carolina: Hwy 441 South to Talllulah Falls.

GPS Coordinates

To the Trailhead:N 34.739750 | W -083.395233

Toccoa Falls

Posted on January 18, 2016 Written by 3 Comments

Nearby Areas: Toccoa State: Georgia Ease of Trail: Easy, Wheelchair Accessible

Toccoa Falls is located in Stephens County, Georgia on the campus of Toccoa Falls College. The waterfall has a 186 feet vertical drop, making it one of the highest free-falling waterfalls east of the Mississippi River.

The hike to the falls is easy with a wide compacted scenic path that follows the river. The trail to the falls is wheelchair accessible.

Visitors enter through Toccoa Falls Books & Gifts located in Gate Cottage and then walk to the base on a scenic path next to a flowing stream.

Toccoa Falls is open year round and a $2 fee.

In an interesting note, you can rent out the space at the bottom of the falls for special events like weddings. Contact the book store for more information.

Directions

325 Chapel Dr, campus of Toccoa Falls College, Toccoa Falls, GA 30598

Google Map: Map Link

There were 4 waterfalls for Georgia.

Easy Waterfalls for South Carolina

Bull Sluice Falls

Posted on February 27, 2017 Written by 4 Comments

Nearby Areas: Pisgah National Forest, Westminster State: Georgia, South Carolina Ease of Trail: Easy

There is also another trail that will take you to the water’s edge downstream from the rapids, which can be fun to skip rocks at.

There is plenty of parking and restroom facilities available, making this a very family friendly stop.

Directions

GPS Coordinates

To the Trailhead:N 34.81473, W 083.30512 (parking lot)

Cedar Falls/Cedar Shoals

Posted on July 14, 2016 Written by Leave a Comment

Nearby Areas: Fountain Inn, Greenville State: South Carolina Ease of Trail: Easy

Cedar Falls is located inside Cedar Falls park in Greenville County. This area is rich in both history and beauty. The Reedy River at this point widens to over 200 feet, cascading over rocks to create a beautiful and picturesque waterfall.

The Cherokee and Catawba Native American tribes used the rock shoals at Cedar Falls for hundreds of years as a way to cross Reedy River. They also used the area as a camping location when hunting.

During the early 1800s this site was used for generating power for several mills and a cotton gin by building a small dam on the side channel of the river. Around 1910 a large dam was built across the entire river to produce electrical power for Fork Shoals Mill.

Currently there is a partially paved hiking trail that runs alongside the Reedy River by the waterfall and the dam. There are also many little pathways that take you right down to the water’s edge.

There’s also picnic areas and a really nice playground if you want to spend a day with the family at the park. If you are in the Greenville area, you may want to add this to your list of things to do in the area.

Directions

Cedar Falls is located inside Cedar Falls Park. The park address is 201 Cedar Falls Road, Fountain Inn, SC 29644. Take I-385 to Hwy 418 and turn right. Turn left on Fork Shoals Road and then make another left on McKelvey Road. Turn right onto Cedar Falls Road and look for the park entrance on your left.

GPS Coordinates

To the Trailhead:34.615887, -82.301218

Issaqueena Falls

Posted on March 5, 2017 Written by 1 Comment

Nearby Areas: Walhalla State: South Carolina Ease of Trail: Easy, Moderate

Issaqueena Falls is a 100 foot waterfall located inside Stumphouse Tunnel Park (note that there is a $5 parking fee at the park) about 7 miles west of Walhalla. Issaqueena Falls can be viewed from a observation deck about 200 yards from the parking lot. However, it is sometimes obstructed by the trees.

From the observation deck there is a steep trail to your right that will take you to the base of the waterfall. The trail to the observation deck is easy, however the trail to the base of the waterfall is moderate.

Beginning of Issaqueena Trail — Beginning of trail to Observation Deck

Many people believe that the waterfall was named from the story of a Creek woman named Issaqueena. Legend tells that Issaqueena was captured by the Cherokee as a girl. Later she met and fell in love with a trader named Allan Francis. One day she overheard a plan to attack the frontier where Allan’s fort was. She traveled 96 miles to warn him. Issaqueena remained with Allan and married him. One day the Cherokee Chief sent warriors to capture Issaqueena. She saw them coming and ran toward this waterfall to escape capture, knowing that the Cherokee believed evil spirits lived in waterfalls. She pretended to leap to hear death, hiding on the ledge below the top of the waterfall until they left and rejoined her family.

Nearby there is a picnic area and Stumphouse Tunnel, which is 25 feet high and 17 feet wide. The tunnel is the remains of an 1850s attempt to link the port of Charleston to the cities of the Midwest by rail. However the Civil War brought the construction to an end, extending 1,617 feet into the mountain. You can walk a ways into the tunnel, but it is really dark and you will need a flashlight to find your way.

Directions

Issaqueena Falls is located inside Stumphouse Tunnel Park about 7 miles west of Walhalla, SC on SC28. From Asheville area, take I-26 east. Get off at exit 54 and go south on US25 for 16 miles into South Carolina and exit at SC11. Turn left on Highway 11 and go 4.5 miles to a stop sign. Turn right to stay on 11 and drive 44 miles to SC28. Go west onto SC28 toward Walhalla. Drive through town, then another 6.9 miles and right turn into Stumphouse Tunnel Park. Drive a short distance into the park and look for the pay station on the right. The fee is $2 per vehicle. Look for a right turn into the picnic/parking area which is at the top of the waterfall.

GPS Coordinates

To the Waterfall:Lat: 34.8071, Lon: -83.1213

Pleasant Ridge Falls

Posted on July 17, 2024 Written by Leave a Comment

Nearby Areas: Greenville State: South Carolina Ease of Trail: Easy

Pleasant Ridge Falls, located inside Pleasant Ridge County Park, is an easy 0.2 mile hike down the nature trail. Pleasant Ridge County Park is located 5 miles from Jones Gap and Caesar’s Head State Parks.

Pleasant Ridge Falls is a two-tiered waterfall. The first tier is 8 feet tall and then it continues for another 25 feet before the second tier which is another 15 feet.

While researching waterfalls near Greenville that we hadn’t previously visited, I came across Pleasant Ridge Falls. This waterfall, while close to many of the larger waterfalls in the area, doesn’t have nearly the crowds, which is perfect for a quiet waterfall hike.

Many people complain that the trail to the waterfall is difficult to find, however we found it without issue. When you enter the entrance to Pleasant Ridge County Park, park right by Shelter #1. Cross a small wooden “bridge” that you will find to the right of the shelter if you are facing it, and head to the left. You’ll see a trail marker sign for the Leroy Smith Natural Trail with an arrow pointing to the Falls Loop Trail. Follow the trail and at 0.1 miles the waterfall will be on your right, just below the trail.

Top Tier of Pleasant Ridge Falls — *Top tier of Pleasant Ridge Falls*

The trail was named after Leroy Smith, the first African-American superintendent of a South Carolina State Park in 1951. Mr. Smith served as superintendent until his death in 1979.

We had the trail all to ourselves, which was surprising for a weekend during the summer. There were two places to sit at by the top tier of the waterfall where you can sit and relax, which we took advantage of. The loop trail continued on for another 0.7 miles, which passes by the site of an old moonshine still and the remains of a grist mill. However, we elected to return to the car the way we came, bringing our total distance to 0.2 miles round trip.

The day we visited the area hadn’t had much rain in a while, so the waterfall had low flow.

The park also has restroom facilities and a picnic shelter (one of three in the park) right off the parking lot just before the entrance to the Falls Trail.

Dogs are welcome at Pleasant Ridge County Park, but must be on a leash.

Other Things Available at Pleasant Ridge Park

Pleasant Ridge Park has 8 miles of shared used hiking and mountain biking trails, both easy and moderate trails. These range in distance from .03 miles to 6 miles. If you like mountain biking, there is the 5.2 mile Jorge F. Arango (JFA) mountain bike trail is within the park.

Pleasant Ridge County Park also has a 4 acre lake where fishing is permitted, however ages 16 and older must have a fishing license. There are limitations on how many fish you can take home, which is listed on the Pleasant Ridge Park webpage. Boats are not permitted at Pleasant Ridge County Park.

There is a small playground with two swings and a metal merry-go-round.

Nearby Waterfalls

Waterfalls in Greenville include: Falls Park on the Reedy River and Rock Quarry Falls. Both of these waterfalls are easy hikes.

Waterfalls in Cleveland include: Jones Gap Falls (located in Jones Gap State Park), Raven Cliff Falls (a four-mile round trip to a scenic overlook, located in Caesar’s Head State Park) and Wildcat Branch Falls. We have not visited Jones Gap Falls or Raven Cliff Falls as the water flow was low so we are saving them for another trip. Wildcat Branch Falls is comprised of three separate waterfalls and is also known as Wildcat Wayside. The first sections of Wildcat Branch Falls are easy and the third is moderate.

Historic Bridges Nearby

Campbell’s Covered Bridge – Built in 1909, Campbell’s Covered Bridge is the only remaining covered bridge in the State of South Carolina. The 38 foot long, 12 foot wide bridge that spans Beaverdam Creek was built by Charles Irwin Willis. The bridge is named after Alexander Lafayette Campbell, who operated the grist mill just downstream of the bridge.

Poinsett Bridge – The oldest bridge in South Carolina, completed in 1820, part of the original road connecting Greenville to Asheville. The stone bridge, named after Joel Roberts Poinsett, includes a 14-foot Gothic arch and spans 130 feet over Little Gap Creek.

Directions

From Greenville, go north on US 25 toward Asheville. When it intersects with SC 11, turn left onto SC 11. Drive two miles to the entrance to Pleasant Ridge Falls on your right. The trail begins beside Shelter #1. Cross a small wooden "bridge" and head to the left. You'll see a trail marker sign for Falls Trail. Follow the trail and the waterfall will be on your right, just below the trail. Park address: Pleasant Ridge County Park, 4232 SC-11, Marietta, SC 29661

GPS Coordinates

To the Waterfall:35.0933, -82.4835

Reedy River Falls/Falls Park

Posted on January 22, 2016 Written by 1 Comment

Nearby Areas: Greenville State: South Carolina Ease of Trail: Easy

Reedy River Falls is located right in downtown Greenville, South Carolina in Falls Park. Falls Park is a 26 acre park with a waterfall, trails, wooden swings and Liberty Bridge (a large suspension bridge which is amazing to look at in the evening). Reedy River Falls is a 40 foot waterfall. Reedy River Falls is actually made up of three separate waterfalls with several smaller cascades surrounding the waterfalls.

Reedy River was the site of the original 1776 settlement in Greenville, SC.

The trails throughout the park make it easy for both wheelchairs and strollers to get to excellent waterfall views. You can literally walk right up to the falls if you want.

There are also frequently ducks nearby so after you look at the falls you can take the kiddos to feed the ducks. You can also get a great view of Reedy River Falls from Liberty Bridge. Falls Park is a great outing for the whole family.

Greenville, SC has redesigned their downtown area into an arts area, with Waterfall Park at the center. The park is well lit at night, and they even put colored lights around the different areas to make it look very nice.

Directions

Falls Park address: 601 South Main Street, Greenville, SC 29601 Parking is located on the west end of Main Street. There are lots of street parking on Main Street, although it does get harder to find a parking space close to Falls Park.

Rock Quarry Falls

Posted on July 15, 2024 Written by Leave a Comment

Nearby Areas: Greenville State: South Carolina Ease of Trail: Easy, Roadside

Rock Quarry Falls is located in Cleveland Park, right across from Ridgeland at the Park Condos. Rock Quarry Falls is located inside Rock Quarry Garden. You can reach Rock Quarry Falls via the Swamp Rabbit Trail from the parking area near Greenville Zoo. From the Swamp Rabbit Trail it is a ¾- mile walk to reach Rock Quarry Garden. The main entrance to the Rock Quarry Garden is on Sherwood Street at Ridgeland Drive.

When you enter the garden you’ll climb down a staircase. The steps are a little uneven, but easy to navigate. Please use caution after it has rained because any of the stone areas may be slick. The waterfall is located at one end of the park with ribbons of water cascading down a stone wall. The water flows down the middle of the park creating a small creek that leads to a rock bridge crossing the creek is at the other side of the park. Benches can also be found inside the park so you can just sit and appreciate the park’s beauty.

If you don’t know what you’re looking for it is easy to drive right past it. It is a small, but pretty park located in the heart of Greenville 15 feet below the street level and is tucked between two neighborhood streets.

Accessing It from Swamp Rabbit Trail

If you hike the Swamp Rabbit Trail, it is located between the Greenville Zoo and Falls Park. When you are hiking the Swamp Rabbit Trail, look for the airplane by McDaniel Avenue. The park located is at the intersection of McDaniel Avenue, Ridgeland Drive, and Sherwood Street. You can cross at the traffic light. Look for the Ridgeland at the Park sign and the park entrance will be just below street level between the condos and the main road. The hike is easy if you hike it, or you may be able to find a parking place by the side of the road if you’re planning a quick visit.

Rock Quarry Falls is a wet weather waterfall. Unfortunately there hadn’t been much rain recently when we visited. However the park itself was still quite pretty with lots of flowers and a cute bridge that crosses the creek. The garden is a popular wedding location.

Park History

Rock Quarry Bridge In 1929, the Greenville Garden Club purchased the two acre abandoned pre-Civil War granite rock quarry. The Garden Club planned to preserve and beautify the land. First they removed rocks that were choking off its water source, Town Spring. This created a small creek. Using the extra quarry stones, the Garden Club was able to create a stone bridge and steps leading down into the newly created garden.

It was a city effort to create Rock Quarry Garden with city residents donating thousands of plants and shrubs to help beautify the park. The Rock Quarry Garden was dedicated on Oct. 21, 1932. The Greenville Garden Club and the City of Greenville continue to preserve and maintain the garden.

Nearby Waterfalls

Waterfalls in Greenville include: Falls Park on the Reedy River and Pleasant Ridge Falls. Both of these waterfalls are easy hikes.

Wildcat Branch Falls is comprised of three separate waterfalls and is also known as Wildcat Wayside. The first sections of Wildcat Branch Falls are easy and the third is moderate.

Cedar Falls is located inside Cedar Falls park in Greenville County. The Reedy River at this point widens to over 200 feet, cascading over rocks to create a beautiful and picturesque waterfall.

Historic Bridges Nearby

Directions

From Greenville: Head southwest on N. Church St. toward Beattie Place. Take the Camperdown Way exit. Continue straight on Cleveland Street. Turn left onto Ridgeland Drive. Turn left onto Sherwood Street. The park will be on your right.

Station Cove Falls

Posted on February 26, 2016 Written by 2 Comments

Nearby Areas: Mountain Rest, Walhalla State: South Carolina Ease of Trail: Easy

Station Cove Falls (also known as Oconee Station Falls or Station Falls) is a 60 foot waterfall located in Sumter National Forest in Oconee County, South Carolina. The trail is an easy, 30-minute hike through the beautiful Appalachian forest, which takes you to Station Cove Falls, a stepped 60-foot waterfall. Station Creek Falls is formed from headwaters atop Station Mountain.

The short, easy trail is mostly flat and crosses a couple of wooden footbridges and the creek. The 0.5-mile hike begins behind the bulletin board. Follow to a wooden stile. Cross the stile and in 0.15 mile you will come to Station Creek. Cross on the stepping stones. The falls will be visible on the right. Continue 100 feet on the trail up Station Creek to the base of the falls.

In the spring and summer, numerous wildflowers bloom along the trail. You may see trillium, pink lady’s slipper orchids, bloodroot, and redbud. The boulders at the base of the falls make a nice area for relaxing and enjoying the beauty of the Appalachian forest.

If you have time, be sure to check out the nearby Oconee Station State Historic Site (about 1 mile),which the county’s first European settlers built in 1792. The block house was used as a military outpost to guard against attacks by the Cherokee Indians. During the early 1800s the Indians used the building as a trading post.

The adjacent Richards house, constructed in 1805, was built by William Richards, a soldier who served nearby and decided to remain after the Revolution. It is thought to be the first brick house built in the northwest corner of South Carolina. During the early nineteenth century the house served as a stagecoach stop.

Directions

From the intersection of SC 28 and SC 11 at Walhalla, drive north on SC 11 for 6.3 miles and turn left (northwest) onto Oconee Station Road (Oconee County S-37-95). Drive 2.4 miles to the trailhead on the left (parking is limited to four cars). Parking area is approximately 0.3 mile past Oconee Station State Historic Site. Additional parking is available at Oconee Station State Historic Site picnic area.

GPS Coordinates

To the Trailhead:Lat: 34.8495 Lon: -83.0854

Twin Falls/Eastatoe Falls/Reedy Cove Creek Falls

Posted on January 23, 2024 Written by Leave a Comment

Nearby Areas: Rosman, Sunset State: South Carolina Ease of Trail: Easy

Eastatoe Falls - one of the falls — *The left side of Twin Falls.*

Twin Falls, also called Eastatoe Falls or Reedy Cove Creek Falls, is located in Eastatoe Valley in Pickens County, SC. The waterfall consists of two separate waterfalls. The waterfall on the left side plunges 75 feet over a granite ledge. The right side starts with a short drop before sliding down a 45 degree slope. Reedy Cove Creek feeds Twin Falls and rejoins at the base in several large pools of water. The water continues past the base of the waterfall and Reedy Cove Creek merges with Eastatoe Creek in the Jocassee Gorges.

There are two trails leading to the waterfall. The observation deck gives you a great view of both falls and can be reached by using the easy trail which starts at the parking area and is only about 0.3-0.4 miles to Twin Falls. Follow the well worn, basically flat path upstream that runs beside the creek to the base of the falls. There are several pathways on your right that head down toward it which lead to a small cascade with a swimming hole at the base.

Just before you reach the falls, you’ll pass a water wheel on your left.

The trail ends on an observation deck with wooden benches that is located directly in front of the waterfall, which is great for those who like to savor the beauty of the waterfall. The observation deck is also great for setting up your tripod.

Fishing, swimming, and climbing are prohibited. There are no restrooms or trash cans at the falls, and no camping is allowed.

The second trail, built in 2008, is a 2.3 miles out and back trail to the top of the waterfalls. Since the view isn’t very good from this perspective, people sometimes walk up to the stone ledge at the crest of the falls. At least one person has died falling from this ledge, so if you want a good view I would recommend the easy trail.

*Twin Falls as viewed from the observation deck.*

Directions

Waterfall is located in Sunset, SC. From Pickens, take Hwy 178 north. Continue past Highway 11 to Cleo Chapman Road. Look for the ruins of Bob's Place is at the corner. Turn left onto Cleo Chapman Road and go about 2 miles. You'll cross a concrete bridge and just beyond that, Cleo Chapman Road will bear to the left. At the "T" intersection, turn right onto Eastatoe Community Road. Drive one mile then turn right onto Waterfalls Road, which turns to gravel. The road dead ends into the parking area. The trail starts here.

GPS Coordinates

To the Trailhead:N35.1119, W-82.81639

To the Waterfall:N35.11034, W-82.81725

Wildcat Branch Falls/Wildcat Wayside

Posted on January 22, 2016 Written by 1 Comment

Nearby Areas: Greenville State: South Carolina Ease of Trail: Moderate, Roadside

Wildcat Branch Falls, also known as Wildcat Wayside is super easy to get to. The main waterfall is viewable by the roadside. It’s a 30 foot waterfall that you can walk right up to the water’s edge.

The middle section of Wildcat Falls is just 0.1 mile upstream from the lower waterfall connected by a rippling stream. The trail begins at wooden steps just to the left of the lower falls. Take these steps to an easy, well-maintained short trail leading to the middle waterfall. While only 10 feet tall, it’s still quite pretty and not as busy as the lower waterfall.

Continue upstream from the middle section to reach the upper section, which is located 0.3 mile upstream from the Middle Wildcat Branch Falls. The total round trip is 0.8 miles if you complete all three trails. This part of the trail is moderate to reach the base of the 100 foot upper waterfall.

Note: You can only hike to the base of Upper Wildcat Branch Falls. The trail to the top of the upper waterfalls is closed to the public. Climbing over the boulders to get to this trail is both illegal and dangerous.

Some people consider Upper Wildcat Branch Falls to be the star of the show, but in many cases the water flow is so low that you can barely see the waterfall. I personally think that Lower Wildcat Branch Falls is the true star of the show, but I do think the others are worth visiting and the trail goes through a nice wooded area.

Other waterfalls nearby include: Reedy River Falls inside Falls Park, Rock Quarry Falls, and Cedar Shoals.

Directions

From Greenville, go north to US 276. Waterfall is located shortly past the intersection of US 276 and Highway 11 on the right about 5 miles down. Park in the paved roadside area about 0.6 miles before Caesar's Head State Park.

GPS Coordinates

To the Waterfall:Lat: 35.0748 Lon: -82.5968

There were 9 waterfalls for South Carolina.

Easy Waterfalls for North Carolina

Baby Falls

Posted on May 28, 2023 Written by 5 Comments

Nearby Areas: Cherohala Skyway, Cherokee National Forest, Tellico Plains State: North Carolina Ease of Trail: Easy, Roadside

Baby Falls is located in the Unicoi Range of mountains near the Tennessee/North Carolina state line just down the road from Bald River Falls. The Tellico Plains region of the Cherokee National Forest has several waterfalls throughout the area.

Baby Falls is easily visible from the road. There is a pull off not far from Baby Falls. Just park in the pull off and walk the short distance to Baby Falls.

Driving to the Waterfall

Baby Falls is very easy to find. It is located on Tellico River Road (FS210). There is a turn off for Tellico River Road on the south side of the Cherohala Skyway. It is just east of Osterneck overlook, which was built on an old logging railroad bed, and winds closely along the shore of the Tellico River.

Pass the historic Tellico District Ranger Station, which built as a Civilian Conservation Corps project. Then make sure you visit Bald River Falls and then continue down the road about 0.5 miles to view Baby Falls.

Directions

From Tellico Plains, turn onto TN 165. Travel about 5 miles. Turn right onto FR 210. Pass the Ranger Station. Baby Falls is about 6.5 miles upstream just past Bald River Falls.

Batson Creek Falls

Posted on March 31, 2024 Written by 2 Comments

Nearby Areas: Brevard, Transylvania County State: North Carolina Ease of Trail: Easy, Wheelchair Accessible

Batson Creek Falls and its twin, Connestee Falls are located in Transylvania County, near Brevard, North Carolina. This may be a small waterfall, but what it lacks in height, it makes up for in being accessible to all.

Batson Creek Falls is a 20 foot tiered cascade. It flows from Batson Creek. The waterfall is located where Batson Creek and Carson Creek meet, called the Silver Slip and continues down to Carson Creek.

Batson Creek Falls Falls can be seen from a wheelchair accessible platform, built in 2011. You follow a short walkway from the rear of the parking lot next to of Top of the Falls Realty to the waterfall. Batson Creek Falls is the fanned cascade on the opposite side of the ravine from the platform, which is located straight in front of you. You follow a short walkway from the parking lot to the viewing platform for the waterfall.

There used to be a pathway going down for a better view of the falls, but it has been blocked and a no trespassing sign has been added. There is also a viewing area next to Batson Creek Falls on private property. You need to know someone who lives in the Connestee Falls Development to use this viewing area.

Alas, we viewed this waterfall right in the middle of the afternoon as a part of a series of waterfalls we visited in the same day. We hope to try again in the fall and catch this one at a better time.

The best times to view Batson Creek Falls is early morning or dusk. When the sun is high in the sky it creates shadows and hot spots on the waterfall. A tripod and polarizing filter are highly recommended when photographing this waterfall.

Batson Creek Falls 3 — Batson Creek Falls from its previous viewing area

Directions

From Brevard: Get on Hwy 276 south in the center of downtown Brevard, drive just under 6 miles and look for the Connestee Falls Park sign on the right adjacent to a log cabin. The parking lot for Top of the Falls Realty is also here. If you miss the 1st turn for the parking area, there's another one a short distance down. The trailhead and beginning of the walkway is marked by a sign at the far right right of the parking lot in the back.

GPS Coordinates

To the Trailhead:N35.1653, W-82.7310

Big Bear Falls

Posted on September 6, 2024 Written by Leave a Comment

Nearby Areas: High Shoals Falls State: North Carolina Ease of Trail: Easy

Please note: We visited this waterfall at the end of August. South Mountain State Park is currently closed to assess damage from Hurricane Helene. Details below were current as of August 2024.

I have to say that South Mountain’s waterfalls are some of the most unusual and stunning waterfalls I’ve ever seen.

While not as impressive as High Shoals Falls, South Mountains State Park’s main attraction, Big Bear Falls is still quite impressive in its own right with a shorter and easier trail. Big Bear Trail is one of the park’s newest trails.

We arrived later in the day, and the park wasn’t too busy. The trail is super easy to find. Upon reaching the entrance to South Mountains State Park, drive to the very end of the road and park in the Jacob Fork parking lot. The hike begins at the Jacob Fork parking area with a picnic area and restrooms. The trail is very well maintained.

We entered the trail on the right side of the parking lot after picking up a trail map located inside a box at the beginning of the trailhead before you reach the kiosk. We followed the wide trail past picnic tables and restrooms. They were some of the cleanest I’ve come across at a state park.

The trail continues past several small, but really pretty cascades that run alongside the trail. Just under a half mile in, you will come to a sign where the trail splits into two trails. Each trail leads to a different waterfall. If you go straight/left and cross the bridge over the creek, you’ll reach High Shoals Falls.

To reach Big Bear Falls, go toward the right on to Big Bear Trail. It is 0.2 miles from this point to Big Bear Falls. The trail is blazed with orange rectangles and is clearly marked.

You’ll follow alongside the creek with several cascades. The trail steadily climbs toward Big Bear Falls. As you near the waterfall, the trail descends toward the creek and the base of Big Bear Falls.

While the trail is very well maintained and free of loose rocks, roots, etc. it still has some elevation change, including the use of natural steps. This was easy for us to traverse, but some might find it a little challenging. We have listed it as an easy because of the condition of the trail, but know your limits as it’s between an easy and a moderate if you are not used to hiking.

Big Bear Falls runs through the cracks in several rock slabs with boulders off to the right side of the waterfall. The waterfall has several drops with a large slab in the middle and then continues to flow down into the creek.

Upon reaching the waterfall, I continued straight ahead and ended up on the large slab in the middle of the waterfall. The slab is a little slippery, so watch your step. Looking to the left side of the slab I could see the water running alongside the slab. Realizing I was in the middle of the waterfall I made my way around the large boulder to the base of the waterfall.

Once you have enjoyed Big Bear Falls, you return the way you came. From there you can either turn right and cross the bridge to head to High Shoals Falls or turn left to return to the parking lot.

South Mountains State Park has numerous trails for both walking, horseback riding and biking. Camping is also available.

Dogs are permitted in the park, however they must be on an attended leash, no longer than 6 feet, at all times. Pet owners who do not have their pets on a leash will receive a fine. The park has more rules for pets here.

Directions

From I-40 in Morganton: Take exit 106 and go south on NC-18. In 11 miles, turn right onto Sugarloaf Road and drive 4.3 miles. Turn left onto Old NC-18 and drive 2.7 miles. Turn right onto Ward Gap Road and drive 1.4 miles. Turn right onto South Mountains Park Road to enter the park. Drive to the very end of the road, and park in the Jacob Fork parking lot. The hike begins at the Jacob Fork parking area with a picnic area and restrooms. Park Address: South Mountains State Park Visitors Center, 3001 S Mountain Park, Connelly Springs, NC 28612

Big Creek Falls

Posted on August 6, 2023 Written by Leave a Comment

Nearby Areas: Burnsville, Erwin, Pisgah National Forest State: North Carolina Ease of Trail: Easy

Big Creek Falls is a small, but very pretty waterfall located in the Pisgah National Forest.If you are in the area, it’s worth stopping by to see. There is not much traffic in the area and what little we saw, drove right past it. We probably would have too if we hadn’t known where to look. The top of Big Creek Falls is barely visible from the roadway.

Follow the directions below to find the pull off. When you reach the pull off at the end of the pull off you will see a “path” descending. This will take you to an “overlook” of the waterfall. From there it is a steep scramble down to the base of the waterfall. It’s only a short scramble though, only about 0.01 feet. I wouldn’t recommend it if the ground is muddy, but it is otherwise not too difficult to navigate with tennis shoes or boots.

The waterfall is nestled in between several large, moss-covered boulders. The water cascades down into a small round pool that feeds off the creek. This waterfall like many is most impressive after a good rainstorm or during winter or spring.

Directions

From the US 19E/19W split about 4 miles west of Burnsville, NC, take US 19W going west for 17.8 miles. Look for a pull off on your left hand side, in a right-hand curve. The pull off is located 4.2 miles east of the Tennessee state line, if you're coming from that direction, on the right just past a National Forest road.

GPS Coordinates

To the Trailhead:36.039478, -82.376312

Bridal Veil Falls (NC)

Posted on September 1, 2017 Written by 2 Comments

Nearby Areas: Cashiers, Franklin, Highlands, Nantahala National Forest State: North Carolina Ease of Trail: Easy, Roadside

For many generations Bridal Veil Falls, which is located in the Nantahala National Forest, has been famous for being the only waterfall in North Carolina you can drive behind. When the highway was originally built, all traffic went behind the waterfall. There have always been problems with falling rocks and icy roads, however it has been decided to close off the section of road behind the waterfall from cars driving behind the waterfall for safety. There’s parking on each side of the waterfall, if you want to walk behind Bridal Veil Falls.

Although Bridal Veil Falls, is 60 feet tall, it doesn’t have much water flow unless it has rained a lot. After a heavy rain, the water flow increases which is the best time to view Bridal Veil Falls. It is located in the Cullasaja River Gorge on US Highway 64, also known as the Mountain Waters Scenic Byway/NC Waterfall Byway, just 2.5 miles west of Highlands.

I wouldn’t recommend a trip just to see this waterfall, however I would check it out if I were already in the area viewing other waterfalls. Dry Falls, Cullasaja Falls and Quarry Falls are also nearby and are definitely worth a visit.

Close up of Bridal Veil Falls in Highlands, NC — *Close up of Bridal Veil Falls, in Highlands, NC, during the Fall. This waterfall is best viewed in the Spring.*

Directions

From downtown Highlands at the intersection of Highways 28, drive US Highway 64 west (toward Franklin) for 2.3 miles and the parking area on your right. From Franklin (intersection of US 64 East and US 23/441), drive US 64 east towards Highlands for 14.5 miles.

GPS Coordinates

To the Waterfall:35.071864, -83.228959

Cascade Falls/The Cascades

Posted on May 12, 2016 Written by 4 Comments

Nearby Areas: Blowing Rock, Blue Ridge Parkway, Boone State: North Carolina Ease of Trail: Easy

The Cascades are located at mile post 271.9 (E. B. Jeffress Park) on the Blue Ridge Parkway. This easy 1 mile trail is perfect for the whole family.

The Cascades trail starts on a paved trail beside a restroom (open May through October). The path becomes gravel. Turn right at the beginning of the loop. There are a few benches along the way and educational plaques describing the local vegetation including dogwood, mountain laurel, white oak, flame azalea, highbush blueberry, and chestnut oak.

Descend and cross a bridge over Falls Creek. At the junction, go right down the steep steps to two overlooks for Cascade Falls. Descend 50 feet to reach the first overlook and another 200 feet to reach the second overlook. The upper overlook allows the visitors to see approximately 20 feet of cascades above the overlook and a long slide below the overlook. The lower overlook allows a different view of the slide. After it has been raining, the steps can be very slippery so take your time and be careful. The overlooks are behind stone walls. There are signs stating to not climb, sit or stand on the stone walls. These are for your safety, as people have died doing so.

After viewing the falls climb back up the stairs and go right at the junction to follow the stream. When you climb back up and reach the trail you started on, turn right back to your car.

Directions

From the intersection of Highway 421 in Deep Gap and the Blue Ridge Parkway, drive north on the Parkway for about 4.5 miles. E.B. Jeffress Park is on the right.

GPS Coordinates

To the Waterfall:36.249341°N, 81.454337°W

Cathedral Falls (also called Bird Rock Falls)

Posted on November 5, 2019 Written by Leave a Comment

Nearby Areas: Balsam Grove, Blue Ridge Parkway State: North Carolina Ease of Trail: Easy

While not the most impressive waterfall based on its size (only 13-15 feet), it is certainly beautiful. Plus with this waterfall you get two more from the same trail access. Cathedral Falls (also called Bird Rock Falls), French Broad Falls, and Mill Shoal Falls (also called Shoal Creek Falls) are all located on the private property of the Living Waters Ministry. Living Waters Ministry gives permission for the public to visit their waterfalls at the visitors’ own risk. You cannot park in their parking lots, but you can park by the entrance off the side of the road. They ask that all pets be on a leash and that people do not leave litter or disturb their property (look, but touch).

Once you park on the side of the road, you’ll see signs saying “enter at your own risk”. You’ll see the entrance to the waterfall trail just after this. Follow the trail down and it will split into two directions. Cathedral Falls is to your left and French Broad Falls and Mill Shoals Falls are to your right.

You take the trail to the left to go to Cathedral Falls. It is about 0.25 miles away. Just follow the bridges and they will lead you straight to Cathedral Falls.

If you want to see French Broad Falls and Mill Shoals Falls (of course you do), head back up to where the path splits and take the other path. When you look to your right you will see a bright red building with a waterfall right next to it. This is Mill Shoals Falls. Next to it is French Broad Falls. Both are about 13-15 feet in height, but quite pretty.

Thank you so much to Living Waters Ministry for sharing these beautiful waterfalls with the public!

Directions

From US Highway 64 near Rosman: Drive NC 215 North about 7.5 miles. Look for the parking pull off on the left just before the Living Waters sign (look for the "private property, enter at own risk" signs). From the Blue Ridge Parkway: Drive NC Highway 215 South about 9.2 miles and park on the right just past the Living Waters sign. GPS Address: 7935 Parkway Road, Balsam Grove, NC.

GPS Coordinates

To the Waterfall:35.221175, -82.861245

Connestee Falls

Posted on March 29, 2016 Written by 3 Comments

Nearby Areas: Brevard State: North Carolina Ease of Trail: Easy, Wheelchair Accessible

Connestee Falls and its twin, Batson Creek Falls are located in Brevard, North Carolina. Connestee Falls was supposedly named after an Indian princess named Connestee who lost her life at the waterfall due to her relationship with an Englishman.

Connestee Falls is a 85 foot tiered waterfall. It flows from Batson Creek. The waterfall is located where Batson Creek and Carson Creek meet, called the Silver Slip and continues down to Carson Creek.

Connestee Falls can be seen from a wheelchair accessible platform, built in 2011. You follow a short walkway from the rear of the parking lot next to of Top of the Falls Realty to the waterfall. From the platform if you go to the far side, you will see the top of Connestee Falls. Unfortunately this is the only view currently available of Connestee Falls.

There used to be a pathway going down for a better view of the falls, but it has been blocked and a no trespassing sign has been added. There is another viewing area next to Batson Creek Falls on private property. You need to know someone who lives in Connestee Falls Development to use this viewing area.

The best times to view Connestee Falls is early morning or dusk. When the sun is high in the sky it creates shadows and hot spots on the waterfall. A tripod and polarizing filter are recommended when photographing this waterfall.

Batson Creek Falls is the fanned cascade on the opposite side of the from the platform, which is located straight in front of you.

This waterfall is very impressive, however given the view available to the average person (which isn’t very good), I gave it a lower rating.

Directions

GPS Coordinates

To the Trailhead:N35.1653, W-82.7310

Cullasaja Falls

Posted on September 4, 2022 Written by 1 Comment

Nearby Areas: Franklin, Highlands, Nantahala National Forest State: North Carolina Ease of Trail: Easy, Roadside

Cullasaja Falls and Cascade — Cullasaja Falls and Cullasaja Cascade

Cullasaja Falls is located in southwestern North Carolina in the Nantahala National Forest. Cullasaja Falls is on the Cullasaja River and is part of the Mountain Waters Scenic Byway. The waterfall is the last major waterfall on the Cullasaja River. Cullasaja comes from a Cherokee word meaning “honey locust place”.

The height for this impressive waterfall has been disputed with ranges from 137 feet to 250 feet. Google Earth lists the height at 137 feet, based on the elevation of the water at the top of the falls and the elevation of the plunge pool at the bottom of the falls. I, like most people, included the cascade height with the waterfall height to give the height of 250 feet since the cascades look like they are part of the waterfall.

You can see Cullasaja Falls at a distance from US 64 while driving by. The waterfall is located beside of a series of blind curves, with sheer rock cliffs above and below the road.

You usually pass it before you realize where it is and drive past the small pull-off (can only fit 2-3 cars) and wind up turning around or parking and walking back alongside of the road. Sometimes the pull-off is full and you have to go to the next one and walk back any way. Please use extreme caution when walking back since this road is very busy and there is not much space next to the road to walk in.

Cullasaja Falls are best viewed in the winter and early spring to avoid the bottom part of the waterfall being obscured by tree growth in front of the waterfall.

There are several waterfalls nearby that you may want to check out while you are in the area including Dry Falls, Quarry Falls and Bridal Veil Falls.

Directions

In Franklin: From the intersection of Hwy 441 and 64 east, turn onto 64 and go east for about 7.7 miles.

GPS Coordinates

To the Waterfall:35.116397°N, 83.269527°W

Daniel Ridge Falls

Posted on October 28, 2019 Written by Leave a Comment

Nearby Areas: Brevard State: North Carolina Ease of Trail: Easy, Moderate

View from side trail of Daniel Ridge Falls

Daniel Ridge Falls (also called Tom’s Spring Falls or Jackson Falls) is a 150 foot waterfall located in the Pisgah National Forest in Brevard. Depending on the trail conditions and which way path on the trail you take will determine the difficulty. The Daniel Ridge Loop Trail is 4 miles, however you can reach the waterfall in 1/2 a mile and return the way you came for a 1 mile hike if you go to the right when the trail splits.

From the small parking area, walk around the gate and you will see the sign for the Daniel Ridge Loop Trail. The trail is marked with red blazes. After a short distance you will come to an iron bridge crossing the Davidson River. Follow the trail straight ahead. Not long after crossing the bridge, you will come to a fork in the trail. If you want to go straight to the waterfall, go to the right (you will see a sign that says falls) and you will reach the waterfall in about a half mile. Then you would return the same way you came for a 1 mile round trip. If you hike the entire loop it will be a 4 mile hike and end here.

Stay on the trail and you will come to a front full view of the entire waterfall, viewable from the trail. Just before this there will be a short side trail that will take you to a side view of the top portion of the waterfall.

The 4 mile hike is moderate, the 1 mile hike is easy to moderate depending on how slick the trail is and if you take the side trail for the side view of the waterfall.

There are many waterfalls nearby including Looking Glass Falls, Cedar Rock Falls, Moore Cove Falls and Slick Rock Falls.

View from main trail of Daniel Ridge Falls

Directions

From Asheville, take I-240 west to I-26 east. Get off at Exit 40 (Asheville Airport). Turn right onto NC 280 toward Brevard for 16 miles. At the intersection of US highways 276 and 64, turn right onto US 276 west. You'll enter Pisgah National Forest after a short distance (there will be a sign at the entrance). Follow this road for 5.2 miles. Turn left onto FR 475 (follow the signs for the Pisgah Center for Wildlife Education and Fish Hatchery). The Fish Hatchery is 1.4 miles past the turn. Look for the parking area about 2.5 miles past the Fish Hatchery on the right and park in the dirt lot in front of the gate across the road. There is no sign for this waterfall. You will see the trail sign for Daniel Ridge Loop Trail as soon as you walk around the gate entrance.

Dry Falls

Posted on February 15, 2016 Written by 2 Comments

Nearby Areas: Highlands, Nantahala National Forest State: North Carolina Ease of Trail: Easy, Roadside

Dry Falls is my favorite waterfall that you can walk behind. Dry Falls is 75 feet in height and is on the Cullasaja River flowing through the beautiful Nantahala National Forest. This waterfall is located in Highlands, North Carolina and has road access from US Highway 64 with a good sized parking area.

The hike distance is 0.2 miles to the waterfall. The trail to Dry Falls is paved and goes right up to, behind and around the waterfall to the other side. This gives photographers multiple angles to get great shots.

There’s also a little spot behind the waterfall that looks like a tiny cave. My kids liked to pretend it was their “hidden cave”. It’s not real tall, so adults will need to squat to fit.

There’s a lot of spray behind the waterfall, so you will probably get wet (despite it being named Dry Falls). But, you can walk to the other side of the falls to get a different perspective. However, if you don’t want to get wet, you can always just view the waterfall at the observation platform.

There are really no bad views of this waterfall once you get on the paved trail. There are some stairs as part of this trail, but the steps are wide enough for people to go up and down at the same time and are easy to climb. Pay attention to where you are walking as the path runs right beside a rocky outcropping and you don’t want to run into it.

I would recommend this waterfall to people of all ages. However if you want photos during the summer without people in your photographs, I would recommend visiting Dry Falls on a weekday.

Dry Falls is open year round. During the winter the mist from the waterfall can freeze on the path and cause the stairs to become slippery or icy. Make sure you take it slow and use the handrails.

Other nearby waterfalls include: Cullasaja Falls, Bust Your Butt Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls.

Directions

From Highlands: Take Highway 64 west for about 3 miles from the Highway 106 intersection. Pass Bridal Veil Falls, then look for a brown and white for Dry Falls and turn left into the parking area.

Google Map: Map Link

GPS Coordinates

To the Trailhead:35.0681° N, 83.2391° W

Dugger’s Creek Falls

Posted on May 8, 2016 Written by Leave a Comment

Nearby Areas: Blue Ridge Parkway, Linville, Linville Falls State: North Carolina Ease of Trail: Easy

Dugger’s Creek Falls is a small waterfall located on the Blue Ridge Parkway at the Linville Falls parking area at milepost 316.4. By itself this waterfall is not worth the effort of hiking to, however if you have time and are already there to see Linville Falls it is worth a small side trip. The 0.2 mile trail is located to the left of the visitor’s center, just follow the sidewalk.

The Duggers Creek Trail takes you to a bridge that crosses over Duggers Creek, giving you a straight on view of Dugger’s Creek Falls. It is best to visit this fall early in the morning before the sun gets too bright or on a cloudy day to get good photos. You can also try taking your photos from the creek either on the rocks or you can walk through it, its under 6 inches deep.

To exit the trail, you have a few options. The first would be to return the way you came, however if there are people already on the bridge behind you this way is a little challenging. You can also cross the bridge and follow the trail back to the road right by the parking area and walk back to the parking lot. Or you can cross the bridge and then walk across the creek back to the trail and take the trail back the way you came to the parking lot.

The trail is in a wooded area, so it is cool and comfortable to hike on a summer’s day. The waterfall isn’t particularly impressive, however it is a super easy trail that can be accessed by old and young hikers alike. This waterfall is best viewed after a good rain or during spring.

Directions

From Boone: Take NC 105 south. Turn left onto NC 181/US-221. Go straight on NC 181 south. Turn left onto the Blue Ridge Parkway. Turn right to head south on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Turn left onto Linville Falls Rd. into the parking area for Linville Falls. If you cross Linville River Bridge, then you've gone too far. At the end of the road arrive at the parking lot. The Dugger's Creek Trail is located to the left of the visitor's center.

GPS Coordinates

To the Waterfall:35.956628, -81.927388

Elk River Falls

Posted on February 19, 2016 Written by Leave a Comment

Nearby Areas: Elk River, Roan Mountain State: North Carolina Ease of Trail: Easy

Elk River Falls Side View from Base — Elk River Falls side view from base

Elk River Falls is located in Elk River, North Carolina in Avery County just past the Tennessee/North Carolina border. The waterfalls is very picturesque and well worth a visit. This waterfall an easy hike and great for all ages. The trail is a short in and out trail with a 0.4 mile round trip.

To get to Elk River Falls from the parking area, go to the back of the parking area. There is a small hand-written sign designating it as the Elk River Falls trail. You will see a set of steps leading to a yellow-blazed trail. There is a hand rail immediately at the beginning of the trail near the rapids.

Follow the trail to the top of the waterfall on your right hand side. Do not walk out to the top of the falls if it is icy or if you are not sure-footed. Continue on the trail for a much better view of the falls.

Bear to your left and you will continue to see the yellow blazes on the trees and a side view of Elk River Falls through the trees. Keep going and you will come to a staircase that will take you down to the base of the falls.

Walk across the fairly flat natural rock walkway and you will be almost directed in front of the base of the waterfall.

If you are looking for a waterfall trail with more of a challenge, I would recommend Jones Falls. You can access Jones Falls from the forest road (which is normally gated) at the same parking lot as Elk River Falls.

Directions

From Elizabethton, take 19E south, and go through the town of Roan Mountain and into North Carolina. Just before getting into the community of Elk Park, turn left onto Old Mill Road. Go about .25 mile on Old Mill Road, and then turn left onto Elk River Road. Go four miles into Pisgah National Forest (when the road is no longer paved). Note: there is no sign labeling entrance into Pisgah National Forest. Continue following the road 0.2 miles to where it dead ends into a parking lot at the end of the road.

French Broad Falls

Posted on November 14, 2019 Written by Leave a Comment

Nearby Areas: Balsam Grove, Blue Ridge Parkway, Living Waters Ministry State: North Carolina Ease of Trail: Easy

While not the most impressive waterfall based on its size (only 13-15 feet), it is certainly beautiful. Plus with this waterfall you get two more from the same trail access. French Broad Falls, Mill Shoal Falls (also called Shoal Creek Falls), and Cathedral Falls (also called Bird Rock Falls) are all located on the private property of the Living Waters Ministry. Living Waters Ministry gives permission for the public to visit their waterfalls at the visitors’ own risk. You cannot park in their parking lots, but you can park by the entrance off the side of the road. They ask that all pets be on a leash and that people do not leave litter or disturb their property (look, but touch).

Once you park on the side of the road, you’ll see signs saying “enter at your own risk”. You’ll see the entrance to the waterfall trail just after this. Follow the trail down and it will split into two directions. French Broad Falls and Mill Shoals Falls are to your right and Cathedral Falls is to your left.

When you go to the right you will see a bright red building with a waterfall right next to it. This is Mill Shoals Falls. Right next to it is French Broad Falls. Both are about 13-15 feet in height, but quite pretty.

If you want to head to Cathedral Falls (of course you do), head back up to where the path splits and take the other path. It is about 0.25 miles away. Just follow the bridges and they will lead you straight to Cathedral Falls.

Thank you so much to Living Waters Ministry for sharing these beautiful waterfalls with the public!

French Broad Falls located at Living Waters Ministry

French Broad Falls and Mill Shoals Falls

Directions

GPS Coordinates

To the Waterfall:35.223777, -82.861606

Granite Falls

Posted on September 2, 2024 Written by Leave a Comment

Nearby Areas: State: North Carolina Ease of Trail: Easy, Roadside

While in the Morganton area, we checked nearby areas in our search for new waterfalls to visit. On the map, not too far from Morganton, we saw a city called Granite Falls. After some research, we discovered that there is a waterfall in Granite Falls called Granite Falls, on Gunpowder Creek, located inside a golf course community near the Granite Falls Sewer Plant.

We located some GPS coordinates and set off in search of the namesake waterfall. The coordinates were incorrect and left us in the middle of town. I had some directions that I had found as well, but from the middle of town could not figure out how to get to where my directions started. So we did an internet search for a golf course community in Granite Falls. Our search produced the Granada Farms Country Club.

We continued through the small town and as we got closer to the country club; I noticed that our directions started to match the ones I had found on the Internet. The directions led us to the golf course community we were looking for. We drove through the community in search of our new waterfall.

However, our trek was in vain as the gate leading to the waterfall was closed. Since permission to visit the waterfall is only if the gate is open, we turned around and headed out.

I’ve included the directions below, but please note this waterfall is on private property and can only be visited if the gate is open and you are not permitted to drive through the second gate. Someone mentioned that there are no trespassing signs around the sewer plant.

I have to mention that it was very disappointing to not have public access when they feature the waterfall on the town’s water tower and on their city seal.

Just an extra note, when we stopped at a gas station less than 5 minutes away, on our way to our next destination there were signs all over saying to lock your door if you are not in your car to prevent theft.

While Granite Falls was a bust, we did visit South Mountains State Park and McGalliard Falls Park which weren’t too far away and had very nice waterfalls. We highly recommend them both. South Mountains State Park has two waterfalls that are quite scenic – High Shoals Falls and Big Bear Falls.

Directions

Head north on US 321 from the interstate and take the Granite Falls exit. Turn right onto Falls Avenue at the end of the ramp. After crossing a small lake at 0.7 miles, turn right on Meandering Way at 1.5 miles. The road winds through a golf course community for 1 mile and comes to a gate. If the gate is open you can drive a short distance to the waterworks facility. There is a small viewing platform next to the parking area, which gives you a view of Granite Falls and the old dam above it.

Green Mountain Creek Falls

Posted on March 29, 2021 Written by Leave a Comment

Nearby Areas: Blowing Rock, Silverdale Falls State: North Carolina Ease of Trail: Roadside

While Green Mountain Creek Falls isn’t as impressive as many of the waterfalls on the nearby Blue Ridge Parkway, it is quite pretty and most likely you’ll have it all to yourself. It’s located about 8 miles from downtown Blowing Rock and only a short distance from the Blue Ridge Parkway so it is the perfect waterfall for a side trip.

Green Mountain Creek Falls is about 20 feet high with a shallow plunge pool. It is roadside and you can stand right in front of the plunge pool. The waterfall empties into a culvert where the stream continues on the other side of the road.

There are pull offs on both sides of the road near the waterfall with space at each for a couple of cars. After viewing Green Mountain Creek Falls be sure to check out Linville Falls, Linn Cove Viaduct, and Silvervale Falls (another roadside waterfall located near Blowing Rock).

Directions

From Blowing Rock: Head south on Main St toward Yonahlossee Rd. Turn right onto US-221 S/Yonahlossee Rd. Continue to follow US-221 S. Green Mountain Creek Falls will be on the right.

GPS Coordinates

To the Waterfall:36.1135, -81.7803

Hooker Falls

Posted on January 24, 2016 Written by Leave a Comment

Nearby Areas: Brevard, Dupont State Forest State: North Carolina Ease of Trail: Easy

Although Hooker Falls is short in height, only 14 feet, yet it is breathtaking to view. Hooker Falls flows on Little River inside Dupont State Forest.

Hooker Falls was named for Edmund Hooker, who operated a mill below the falls in the late 1800s. The waterfall was seen in the movie Last of the Mohicans when the characters go over the falls in canoes.

The trail to Hooker Falls is accessed from the Hooker Falls parking area. The hike is less than a mile round trip and is along a gravel road. Look for the Hooker Falls Trail before you cross the footbridge over the Little River. Stay to the left at any intersection.

The trail comes to a upper viewing area at the top of the waterfall in 0.25 miles. Continue on the trail for about a hundred yards and the trail descends and curves to the left bringing you to the base of the falls. You can go up the left side to get a closer look from the side of the waterfall.

Return to the parking area the same way you came, for a round trip hike of 0.5 miles.

Hooker Falls is the easiest waterfall hike in the Dupont State Forest. It is best to visit this fall on weekdays, as it can be very crowded on the weekends.

While in the area, be sure to visit Triple Falls and High Falls, also in the Dupont State Forest.

Directions

Directions: From the intersection of US64 east of Brevard and Crab Creek Rd, drive 4.2 miles on Crab Creek Rd and turn right on to DuPont Rd. Drive 3.1 miles and turn right into the Hooker Falls Access parking area. Drive through the first parking lot and back to the second parking area.

GPS Coordinates

To the Waterfall:N35.2023, W-82.6238

Linville Falls

Posted on February 2, 2024 Written by 1 Comment

Nearby Areas: Blue Ridge Parkway, Marion, Morganton State: North Carolina Ease of Trail: Easy, Moderate, Strenuous

Linville Falls is located on the Blue Ridge Parkway at mile post 316.4. The total height of the falls is 150 feet with four drops. Linville Falls starts with a twin set of upper falls, moving into a small gorge, and ending in a high-volume, 45-foot drop. Linville Falls, formed by Linville River, marks the beginning of Linville Gorge. Linville River continues on after the falls ending near Lake James.

There are four different overlooks that you can hike to different views of Linville Falls. Unlike some falls where the different overviews provide a similar view, you will find that all the views are very different and are extremely beautiful. I recommend them all.

You will also notice that this waterfall is list as having, and Easy, Moderate, and Strenuous hiking trail. That is because there are different trails that you can take. When I was young, we’d sometimes go here, and my mother could only do the easy trail. However, I’d go with my father on the moderate trails. Since then, I’ve also taken the strenuous trails as they lead you to the base of the waterfall.

The Easy Trail

The 0.5-mile Upper Falls trail leads to the top of Linville Falls, where you can see the two small upper falls. This is an easy trail, which is wide and accessible to everyone.

The Moderate Trails

Erwin’s View Trail (1.6 mile round trip) goes to two overlooks, Erwin’s View, which is a 0.8 mile hike, and Chimney View, which is a 0.7 miles hike. These are a little steeper than the Upper Falls trail, and are considered to be a moderate trail. The trail is generally well maintained and free of most obstacles although it can be a bit steep in some sections, which is why it is listed as a moderate trail.

Harder Trails to Traverse

Linville Falls 4 — Linville Falls Base of the Falls

The 0.5-mile Plunge Basin Trail leads to Plunge Basin Overlook, gives you a view of Linville Falls from the other side of the river. The Gorge Trail, which is a 0.7 mile hike, branches off from the Plunge Basin trail, taking you to an area near the base of the falls. These are moderate and strenuous trails respectively. Our 9 year old son was able to handle both without issue, except for some assistance climbing over a fallen tree.

When to Visit

Linville Falls is very popular, so during summer and fall it is best to visit on the weekdays to avoid the crowds. The Blue Ridge Parkway has a large parking log, but it can still overflow during the busy times of the season. We have noticed that fall, with the changing of the leaves is the busiest time, and for good reason. If you come from the Blue Ridge Parkway, there is a small range station and gift store. We like to take our family photo there, with the bridge and the changing leaves in the background.

Linville Falls 2 — Linville Falls Upper Falls

Directions

Coming from Marion: take I-40 west. Get off at the Hwy 221 exit in Marion and head north. Take 221 to the Blue Ridge Parkway. Go north on the Blue Ridge Parkway for about a mile and turn right into the Linville Falls parking area.

Log Hollow Falls

Posted on October 26, 2021 Written by 1 Comment

Nearby Areas: Blue Ridge Parkway, Brevard, Daniel Ridge Falls, Looking Glass Falls, Moore Cove Falls, Pisgah National Forest State: North Carolina Ease of Trail: Easy

Log Hollow Falls is a pretty 25-30 foot waterfall located in the Pisgah National Forest. Unlike a lot of the waterfalls in this area, Log Hollow Falls doesn’t get as many visitors. The trail is well defined and follows Forest Service Road 5043 that is closed to vehicles.

You park right in front of the gated road. There are two options available from the parking area – a trail leading up into the woods and the gated FS5042. You’ll want to walk around the gate and follow the service road trail into a large open area.

Less than 0.25 miles from the parking area, you will reach the first bridge. Continue past the first bridge up the walkway for another 5 minutes or so to the next bridge. You’ll see Log Hollow Falls on your right.

To see a close up view of Log Hollow Falls from the base, cross the bridge and look for the side trail immediately on your right as soon as you cross the bridge.

To return to the parking area, simply turn around and walk back the way you came. Before visiting Log Hollow Falls, check ahead and make sure you can reach this waterfall as sometimes the connecting roads may be closed due to snow (especially from January to March) or flooding in the area.

While in the area, you may want to check out Looking Glass Falls, Daniel Ridge Falls, Moore Cove Falls, Cedar Rock Falls and Slick Rock Falls. There are several other waterfalls that are off of this main trail that we hope to get back to visit soon, but were unable to this trip due to trail blockage on the Discovery Falls trail. A large tree had fallen in the path and we were unable to find another path that led to Discovery Falls. We made our way back to the main trail and were able to visit Log Hollow Falls, but it got dark before we could reach Upper Log Hollow Falls and Logging Road Falls. We hope to visit there again soon and will update the website with these falls then.

Directions

From Brevard: At the intersection of NC280/US64/US276 drive north on US276 for 10.1 miles and turn left onto FR475B/Headwaters Road, which is a gravel road. Drive 1.6 miles until you come to the 2nd hairpin turn on the left. On the right hand side look for gated forest road 5043 on the right. There are several places to park. Be sure not to block the gate. You'll see a big brown informational sign right by the parking area.

GPS Coordinates

To the Waterfall:35.323846, -82.807712

Logging Road Falls

Posted on September 19, 2022 Written by Leave a Comment

Nearby Areas: Brevard, Cedar Rock Falls, Daniel Ridge Falls, Discovery Falls, Log Hollow Falls, Looking Glass Falls, Moore Cove Falls, Pisgah National Forest, Slick Rock Falls, Upper Log Hollow Falls State: North Carolina Ease of Trail: Easy

Logging Road Falls is a 20 waterfall located in the Pisgah National Forest, near Brevard. Logging Road Falls is the fourth waterfall accessible from the Log Hollow Falls trail. The Log Hollow Falls trail is well defined and follows a Forest Service Road that is closed to vehicles.

Less than 0.25 miles from the parking area, you will reach the first bridge. The trail for Discovery Falls is immediately after the bridge on your right. Cross the bridge and continue on to the second bridge. You’ll see Log Hollow Falls on your right.

After crossing the second bridge, continue uphill on the trail and after another 10 minutes you will reach Logging Road Falls, which is visible from the trail on your right hand side.

To return to the parking area, simply turn around and walk back the way you came. Before visiting Logging Road Falls, check ahead and make sure you can reach this waterfall as sometimes the connecting roads may be closed due to snow (especially from January to March) or flooding in the area.

While in the area, you may want to check out Looking Glass Falls, Daniel Ridge Falls, Moore Cove Falls, Cedar Rock Falls and Slick Rock Falls.

Directions

Looking Glass Falls

Posted on April 16, 2024 Written by 2 Comments

Nearby Areas: Brevard, Pisgah National Forest, Transylvania County State: North Carolina Ease of Trail: Easy, Roadside, Wheelchair Accessible

Looking Glass Falls is a popular 60 foot waterfall located in the Pisgah National Forest near Brevard, North Carolina. It is family friendly and wheelchair accessible. There is a roadside platform overlooking Looking Glass Falls.

The name Looking Glass came from when the water freezes on the sides of the waterfall in the winter and glistens in the sunlight like a looking glass or a mirror.

There is a set of stairs leading to the base of the waterfall for a closer look. You can go down onto the rocks in the stream below the waterfall or even wade in front of it. There is also a walkway that runs alongside the waterfall. While it is not an official pathway, it is still not difficult to climb. However, exercise caution as spray from the waterfall will get on the pathway and can make it slippery.

Looking Glass Falls is one of the busiest waterfalls inside Pisgah National Forest because of its beauty and its ease of viewability.

There are plenty of pull off parking spaces. If you want to avoid having people in your photos, I would recommend going on a weekday or early on the weekend, especially in the summer or fall. Looking Glass Falls is open year round.

Looking Glass Falls is best photographed in the morning, at dusk or on a cloudy day. Winter offers a spectacular ice formation if you want another interesting look for this waterfall.

There are many waterfalls nearby including: Cedar Rock Falls, Moore Cove Falls, Slick Rock Falls, Log Hollow Falls, Upper Log Hollow Falls, Daniel Ridge Falls, Graveyard Fields and Skinny Dip Falls .

Directions

From Asheville: Take I-26 East to Exit 40 to Highway 280. Turn right onto Highway 280 West and go 16 miles toward Brevard. As you enter the Brevard area, you will see a big shopping center on the right with a Walmart. Just after the shopping center, turn right onto US Highway 276 North onto the Forest Heritage Scenic Byway to enter the Pisgah National Forest. Go 6 miles to Looking Glass Falls on your right.

GPS Coordinates

To the Waterfall:35.296144, -82.768821

Mill Shoals Falls (also called Shoal Creek Falls)

Posted on November 9, 2019 Written by 1 Comment

Nearby Areas: Balsam Grove, Blue Ridge Parkway, Living Waters Ministry State: North Carolina Ease of Trail: Easy

While not the most impressive waterfall based on its size (only 13-15 feet), it is certainly beautiful. Plus with this waterfall you get two more from the same trail access. Mill Shoal Falls (also called Shoal Creek Falls), French Broad Falls and Cathedral Falls (also called Bird Rock Falls) are all located on the private property of the Living Waters Ministry. Living Waters Ministry gives permission for the public to visit their waterfalls at the visitors’ own risk. You cannot park in their parking lots, but you can park by the entrance off the side of the road. They ask that all pets be on a leash and that people do not leave litter or disturb their property (look, but touch).

Once you park on the side of the road, you’ll see signs saying “enter at your own risk”. You’ll see the entrance to the waterfall trail just after this. Follow the trail down and it will split into two directions. Mill Shoals Falls and French Broad Falls are to your right and Cathedral Falls is to your left.

Thank you so much to Living Waters Ministry for sharing these beautiful waterfalls with the public!

Mill Shoals Falls at Living Waters Ministry

Directions

GPS Coordinates

To the Waterfall:35.223777, -82.861606

Moore Cove Falls

Posted on May 20, 2016 Written by Leave a Comment

Nearby Areas: Brevard, Pisgah National Forest State: North Carolina Ease of Trail: Easy, Moderate

Moore Cove Falls is one of the most popular waterfalls in Brevard. It’s also in my opinion, one of the most over-rated.

On the positive side, this waterfall is an easy one to hike and is family friendly. It’s fairly short – only 1.5 miles round trip. However, this is a low-flow waterfall. Even after a good rain this waterfall doesn’t have much water flow. Long periods of dry weather can reduce this waterfall to a trickle, so try to visit after a good rain or during early spring.

The trail is a scenic hike through the forest alongside the creek. In April, you can see several different types of wildflowers during your hike. There are refurbished foot bridges crossing Moore Creek several times and a nice viewing platform to make this trail easily accessible for all ages and levels of hiking experience.

The waterfall is 50 feet high and you can even walk behind it. To walk behind the waterfall, just walk around the deck.

If you walk behind the waterfall, there is a trail leading up the side of the waterfall just on the other side. This trail leads to a ledge near the top of the falls. I would not recommend taking this trail as several people have fallen to their deaths from the top of the waterfall.

There are no signs on the highway for Moore Cove, so look for an information board by the parking lot so you will know you are in the right spot. The trail begins on the bridge side of the information board. Cross Looking Glass Creek at the wooden bridge and head uphill for a short distance. At the top of the incline, head to the right and follow the yellow blazes on the trees that will lead you to Moore Cove Falls.

There are many waterfalls nearby including: Cedar Rock Falls, Looking Glass Falls, Slick Rock Falls, Log Hollow Falls, Upper Log Hollow Falls, Daniel Ridge Falls, Graveyard Fields and Skinny Dip Falls.

Directions

From the Blue Ridge Parkway, get off on the Highway 276 exit and drive south for 8.2 miles. Cross the stone bridge and pull off on the left. You will pass Sliding Rock along the way. From the intersection of Highways 64, 280 and 276 north near Brevard, drive north on Highway 276 north for about 6.5 miles and pull off in the paved area on the right side of the road. You'll see a wooden information center. If you cross the bridge you've gone too far.

GPS Coordinates

To the Waterfall:35.311827, -82.777683

Quarry Falls/Upper Cullasaja Falls

Posted on September 12, 2023 Written by Leave a Comment

Nearby Areas: Franklin, Highland, Nantahala National Forest State: North Carolina Ease of Trail: Easy, Roadside

Quarry Falls (also known as Upper Cullasaja Falls and Bust Your Butt Falls) is a 20-foot, multi-tiered cascade in the Cullasaja River Gorge.

Quarry Falls is best known for its large, deep pool at the bottom and is a popular swimming hole during warm weather. Locals also use Quarry Falls as a sliding rock. Be sure to check the water depth before trying this since water levels can vary based upon rainfall.

This is also a great picnic area for the family.

Quarry Falls is located along a scenic stretch US Highway 64 through the Cullasaja River Gorge in the Nantahala National Forest on the Mountain Waters Scenic Byway.

You should visit early in the morning or on weekdays if you want solitude since the afternoons and weekends this waterfall can get pretty busy.

While in the area you may want to check out nearby waterfalls including Dry Falls, Cullasaja Falls and Bridal Veil Falls.

Directions

From downtown Highlands, travel west on Highlands Road (Hwy 64). Go about five miles. There will be a parking on the right just before the falls and parking on both sides of the road just below the falls.

GPS Coordinates

To the Waterfall:35.0924°N, 83.2670°W

Roaring Fork Creek Falls

Posted on November 16, 2022 Written by Leave a Comment

Nearby Areas: Blue Ridge Parkway, Burnsville, Crabtree Falls, Pisgah National Forest, Setrock Creek Falls State: North Carolina Ease of Trail: Easy

Roaring Fork Creek Falls, located in the Pisgah National Forest in Burnsville, NC, is a long 50 foot cascade in a very pretty setting. Roaring Fork Falls is almost as long as it is high, with numerous cascades pouring into a small, clear pool at the base. Roaring Fork Creek feeds into the nearby Toe River and the falls is surrounded by rhododendron, which are very pretty when blooming. It’s easy to find and an easy 1 mile round trip hike.

The hike to Roaring Fork Creek Falls starts on the opposite side of the road from the parking area. You will see a sign pointing you toward the falls. Go around the gate onto a mostly flat forest service road, which winds gradually uphill. You will pass several bunkers formerly used to store explosives along the side of the trail. Just before the road crosses the creek, turn right and cross a small wooden bridge, onto the Roaring Fork Falls trail. This forest path is easy, slightly uphill, and ends at Roaring Fork Creek Falls about 300 feet from the bridge.

Waterfalls nearby include Setrock Creek Falls and Crabtree Falls. Other sights nearby are the Blue Ridge Parkway, Pisgah National Forest, Mount Mitchell State Park and the Mount Mitchell Golf Club Resort.

Directions

From the intersection of the Blue Ridge Parkway and Highway 80, go about 2.2 miles west and turn left onto South Toe River Rd. You'll see a sign for Black Mountain Campground. Cross the bridge and immediately turn left onto the road leading to the Busick Work Center. The parking area is on the left in about 0.2 mile, right in front of the gate to the Work Center.

GPS Coordinates

To the Waterfall:35.75996, -82.191643

Setrock Creek Falls

Posted on November 20, 2022 Written by Leave a Comment

Nearby Areas: Blue Ridge Parkway, Burnsville, Crabtree Falls, Pisgah National Forest, Roaring Fork Creek Falls State: North Carolina Ease of Trail: Easy

Setrock Creek Falls is a 75 foot waterfall that is off the beaten path. It is located in the Pisgah National Forest in Burnsville, North Carolina at the base of Mount Mitchell. The waterfall is located inside the Black Mountain Campground, so if you’re not camping there you will need to park in the parking lot across from the bridge from the campground entrance.

The trail can be a bit challenging to find. From the parking lot across from the campground, you’ll cross the bridge and take the first road to the left (just across from the campground office). Stay on the road.

You’ll pass a multi-trail entrance on your left. Do not take this trail. After a short walk up the road you will see a trail post marker for the Mt. Mitchell trail on your right. Continue on the road until you get to the trail entrance with a marker for Setrock Falls.

The trail is an easy 1 mile out and back round trip. The trail is clearly defined and leads straight to the waterfall, however there are a lot of roots covering the trail. After you have hiked to Setrock Creek Falls, return to your car the way you came.

Other waterfalls in the area include Crabtree Falls and Roaring Fork Creek Falls. While in the area, be sure to check out the Mt. Mitchell Scenic Byway or the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Directions

Take NC80 North from the Blue Ridge Parkway at milepost 344.1 for 2.2 miles and turn left onto South Toe River Road (SR 1205). South Toe River Road crosses a small bridge almost immediately. Follow the signs to Black Mountain Campground. Stay on South Toe River Road for between 2-3 miles. You will pass a golf course and the road turns to gravel. After around 2 miles you will make a sharp right. This road leads to the Black Mountain Campground in 0.6 miles. Park in the parking area across from the campground entrance. Walk across the bridge into the campground and take the first road to the left. Stay on the road. You'll pass a multi-trail entrance on your left. After a short walk on the road you will see a trail post marker for the Mt. Mitchell trail on your right. Continue on the road until you get to the trail entrance with a marker for Setrock Falls.

GPS Coordinates

To the Waterfall:35.7495, -82.2280

Silver Run Falls

Posted on April 4, 2016 Written by 2 Comments

Nearby Areas: Cashiers, Nantahala National Forest State: North Carolina Ease of Trail: Easy

Silver Run Falls is a pretty 25 foot waterfall located in Nantahala National Forest located about 10 minutes from Cashiers, North Carolina. There’s a short well-worn trail through a scenic wooded area, about 0.25 feet in length to the base of the waterfall. Round trip would be about 0.5 miles.

Silver Run Falls is perfect outing for the whole family, however it is not wheelchair accessible. It’s easy to get to, with a clearly defined gravel and dirt trail that leads straight to the waterfall.

You will cross a small wooden bridge near the waterfall. There are a few steps at the beginning and end of the bridge. Right after you cross there is a sandy, rocky area off to your right. Walk out to the large flat rocks for the best view of the waterfall.

There is a large pool of water in front of the waterfall, which many people use as a swimming hole during hot summer days. Get there early to avoid the crowds.

The parking area for Silver Run Falls is about four miles south from the intersection of Highway 64 and Highway 107 in Cashiers, North Carolina. Look for the sign for Silver Run Falls and parking area on the shoulder of the road off to your left. The parking area only holds about four or five cars. Do be careful when getting out of your car, especially with smaller children as the speed limit of the road next to the parking area is 55 mph and there is not much clearance between some spaces and the road.

Directions

GPS Coordinates

To the Waterfall:35.06616, -83.06675

Silvervale Falls

Posted on October 21, 2020 Written by 2 Comments

Nearby Areas: Blowing Rock, Blue Ridge Parkway State: North Carolina Ease of Trail: Easy, Roadside

Silvervale Falls is a 80 foot roadside waterfall located in Caldwell County, near Blowing Rock, NC. There is a parking space right next to the waterfall, so there is no need to hike to this waterfall. It is quite pretty when not marked up by graffiti. Luckily the day I went, a lot of the graffiti had been cleaned off so it was much prettier than in previous years. Silvervale Falls is best visited in the morning or at dusk for the best photographs.

Silvervale Falls is not far from Blowing Rock, the Blue Ridge Parkway and Tweetsie Railroad so if you’re in the area, this waterfall would make a great addition to your trip.

From the Blue Ridge Parkway: Take the exit for US-221 S/US-321 S (Blowing Rock). From the exit ramp, make a right turn. Continue to follow US-321 S, driving south down the mountain for 8.7 miles. Pass by United Community Bank (on the right in 1.5 miles). Turn right onto Waterfalls Road. Drive 1.8 miles to Silvervale Falls, which will be on your left.

Directions

Skinny Dip Falls

Posted on May 6, 2024 Written by 1 Comment

Nearby Areas: Asheville, Blue Ridge Parkway, Brevard State: North Carolina Ease of Trail: Easy, Moderate

Top of Skinny Dip Falls From Bridge — View from the bridge of the top of Skinny Dip Falls.

Skinny Dip Falls is comprised of three series of small waterfalls and is about 30 feet high with a small swimming hole at its base. Skinny Dip Falls is unique in that it has a V-shaped waterfall that continues down to another waterfall and then fans out into three more waterfalls. The scenic trail is 0.8 miles and has an elevation gain of 210 feet.

To access Skinny Dip Falls, park at the Looking Glass Rock overlook at milepost 417 on the Blue Ridge Parkway and walk across the parkway to the white blazed Mountains to Sea Trail. The trail is easy to moderate, and is only an 0.8 mile hike. I would only consider the trail moderate in that part of the terrain is rocky and there are many steps. This is an in-and-out hike so you will return the way you came.

Skinny Dip Falls Trail Tree — Tree that looks like a deer head near the beginning of the trail to Skinny Dip Falls.

At the beginning of the trail you’ll come to a tree that vaguely resembles the head of a deer. The path goes slightly uphill, leading into a forest filled with birch, hemlock, oak and maple trees. Shortly afterward you’ll come to a short set of wooden steps. At the top, go left. The trail will become rocky at this point, but it is still easy to hike. The trail ends at a second set of stairs that lead down to the base of the waterfall. The creek then turns to the right and you cross on a bridge in front of the waterfall.

The pool in front of the waterfalls is 5-6 at its deepest part and the water is clear and cool. If you want to take a swim during the warmer months, be sure to bring your bathing suit and towel. It’s not like the name suggests and it’s cold too!

If you continue on the trail past the bridge, the trail continues to Graveyard Fields and eventually ends in the Smoky Mountains. However, this trail is not an easy trail to follow.

Be sure to visit Graveyard Fields while you’re in the area. It’s only about two miles up the road on the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Skinny Dip Falls Top Side View — Side angle of the top of Skinny Dip Falls

Bottom of Skinny Dip Falls — Bottom Falls of Skinny Dip Falls

Directions

From Asheville, take the Blue Ridge Parkway south past Mount Pisgah and US 276 to MP 417. Park at the Looking Glass Rock overlook, on your left.

GPS Coordinates

To the Waterfall:35.322342, -82.833847

Slick Rock Falls

Posted on May 24, 2016 Written by 2 Comments

Nearby Areas: Brevard, Pisgah National Forest State: North Carolina Ease of Trail: Easy

Slick Rock Falls is a low-flow 30 foot waterfall located in Pisgah National Forest. The waterfall is named for the slick rocks at the top and bottom of the falls. The hike to Slick Rock Falls is short – only about 100 yards from the parking area. You do need to climb a few stairs to reach the waterfall. Like Moore Cove Falls (also found in Pisgah National Forest), you can also walk behind this waterfall. The rocks can be very slick so watch your step when walking close to the waterfall.

Slick Rock Falls is best viewed during Spring or after a good rain. During the dry times of the year, the waterfall dries up to almost a trickle. The pictures you see here were taken in October (to give you an idea of the water flow in the Fall). Slick Rock Falls can be especially pretty to visit in the Winter due to the unique ice formations. However, check ahead and make sure you can get to this waterfall as sometimes the connecting roads may be closed (especially from January to March).

While this waterfall is not one I would recommend a special trip to see, it is worth visiting while you are in the area. It is located near the Pisgah Center for Wildlife Education and the State Fish Hatchery. There are also several waterfalls in the area, including Looking Glass Falls and Sliding Rock.

From the parking area walk up the steps and past the trail head information signs. When the trail splits, go to the right and you will reach the base of the falls in about 45 yards. Should you decide to go to the left, the trail will lead you to the base of Looking Glass Rock.

There are many waterfalls nearby including: Looking Glass Falls, Cedar Rock Falls, Moore Cove Falls, Log Hollow Falls, Upper Log Hollow Falls, Daniel Ridge Falls, Graveyard Fields and Skinny Dip Falls.

Directions

From U.S. Highway 276, go approximately 5.2 miles north of the intersection of 276, U.S. Highway 64, and NC Highway 280 in Brevard, North Carolina. Turn left onto Forest Road 475 and go 1.5 miles. Turn right onto Forest Road 475B. Go north 1.1 miles. You will come to a sharp left hand curve with a small pullout on the outside of the curve. Park here. Look for the small post in the pull off pointing to the Slick Rock Falls trail and follow the trail for 55 yards. Take the right fork to the base of the falls in approximately 45 yards.

GPS Coordinates

To the Waterfall:35.293441°N, 82.797109°W

Soco Falls

Posted on April 9, 2020 Written by Leave a Comment

Nearby Areas: Blue Ridge Parkway, Cherokee, Cherokee Indian Reservation, Maggie Valley State: North Carolina Ease of Trail: Easy, Moderate

A view of Soco Falls from halfway down to the base

Soco Falls is a 120 foot, double waterfall located between Maggie Valley and Cherokee, just on the edge of the Cherokee Indian Reservation. You can view Soco Falls from several different locations. The first is the observation deck. The trail starts at the break in the guard rail just off the parking area. It takes less than five minutes to walk to the observation deck. There are a few tall steps that take you down to the trail. My little guy needed some assistance here as the steps gave his little legs an issue. Follow the trail down to where it forks. Go to the right to view Soco Falls from the observation deck. This gives you a really good view, so if you are uncertain as to if you want to try the more difficult part of the trail then simply enjoy the spectacular view from here.

It is worth noting that the second waterfall and the very top of the other waterfall are mostly obstructed. However, the view is still quite beautiful. I would rate the trail to the observation deck as easy during good weather conditions.

Soco Falls as viewed from the observation deck

For a closer view, continue down a steep trail from the deck to the base of the waterfalls. This section is steep and downhill. A system of ropes has been set up to help you climb to the base of Soco Falls and return to your car afterward. I have short legs and had to rely heavily on the ropes both climbing down and back up. I would rate this section of the trail as moderate in good weather conditions. If it has rained recently then I would rate it as difficult. There’s a section about halfway down where you can view the waterfall without going all the way to the base if it is too crowded. Once you have viewed Soco Falls, return the way you came.

From Maggie Valley, take Highway 19 south to the Blue Ridge Parkway (from the Soco Gap Milepost 455.7). Cross under the Blue Ridge Parkway and continue downhill on Highway 19 toward Cherokee. After you pass the Parkway, it’s 1.5 miles to an unmarked pullout on the left side of the road. It is easy to miss so watch carefully when close. Parking is limited, only about 10 cars can fit. Just before you reach the parking area, you’ll see a small blue sign with Soco Falls 0.5 miles ahead written on it, however it’s actually 0.3 miles from that sign according to my odometer. While you’re in the area, you might want to check out Mingo Falls (located nearby in Cherokee).

This waterfall gets pretty busy, so you might want to visit early in the morning or during off peak times of the year. The trail can be slippery if it has rained recently, so make sure you wear good hiking shoes.

Directions

From Maggie Valley, take Hwy 19 south to the Blue Ridge Parkway. Cross under the Blue Ridge Parkway and continue downhill on Hwy 19 toward Cherokee. After you pass the Parkway, it's 1.5 miles to an unmarked pullout on the left side of the road. Parking is limited. Just before you reach the parking area, you'll see a small blue sign with Soco Falls 0.5 miles ahead written on it, however it's actually 0.3 miles from that sign according to my odometer.

GPS Coordinates

To the Waterfall:35.492421, -83.169676

Tom’s Creek Falls

Posted on July 3, 2019 Written by Leave a Comment

Nearby Areas: Blue Ridge Parkway, Crabtree Falls, Linville Falls, Pisgah National Forest State: North Carolina Ease of Trail: Easy

Tom’s Creek Falls is a family friendly 60 foot waterfall located in the Pisgah National Forest, with several smaller cascades running in front of it. It is an easy trail that leads to an observation deck with a great view.

At the entrance to the trail there is a sign for the waterfall. The trail runs alongside the creek and is very scenic. The gravel trail follows an old road bed most of the way. All creek crossings are crossed by bridges/steps. With the exception of a short hill at the very end, it is almost completely level.

You can take a trail to the base of the waterfall if you take the wooden steps to your right just before you get to the observation deck. This is also an easy hike. Many people like to play in the water at the base of the waterfall on hot days so it is a little crowded during the summer.

This is an out and back trail, so once you visit the waterfall simply return the way you came back to your car.

The sparkling rocks you see along the trail are mica. There is an old mica mine that you can also access from this trail. To see the mine, cross the creek below the falls. A trail leads downstream on the other side of the creek for a few feet, then turns into a large gully. Follow the gully uphill for a few more feet and this will lead you to the entrance of an old mine tunnel leading downhill and into the mountainside. If you enter the tunnel, do not enter the water, as it is very deep.

Leashed dogs are permitted on the trail.

An entrance to the Blue Ridge Parkway is not far from Tom’s Creek Falls and Linville Falls and Crabtree Falls are not far from here and are definitely worth a visit.

Toms Creek Falls View From Base — Tom’s Creek Falls View From Base

Directions

From Marion: From I-40, take US 221 North (exit 85) for about 12 miles. Turn left onto Huskins Branch Road. Go 1.2 miles and you'll see the small parking area just before the bridge that crosses Tom's Creek). The road is paved except for a small section in the middle.

GPS Coordinates

To the Waterfall:35.777575, -82.062421

Toxaway Falls

Posted on April 2, 2016 Written by 2 Comments

Nearby Areas: Brevard, Cashiers, Hogback State: North Carolina Ease of Trail: Easy, Roadside

Toxaway Falls, an impressive 150 foot waterfall, is located next to Highway 64 in North Carolina between Brevard and Cashiers.

Toxaway Falls starts at Lake Toxaway and flows over an interesting almost striped looking bedrock in an incredible 240 feet elevation change before disappearing into the forest. Part of the waterfall is located inside Gorges State Park, the boundary line runs right through the middle of the river with the east side being part of the state park.

The distinctive striped bedrock was formed when the granite rock was exposed for a large portion of the falls when the Toxaway Dam burst on August 13, 1916 after severe flooding. This flooded the Toxaway River when they received 24 inches of rain in 24 hours, causing the dam, which had no water level control, to break under the stress and sent more than 5 billion gallons of water crashing over the falls into South Carolina.

It’s a nice stop along the way on the curvy, scenic Highway 64 drive toward Cashiers and Highlands. A great place to get out and stretch your legs while enjoying a great view!

I have been unable to find an area from which the entire waterfall is viewable. Houses and condos have been built all around it. I hope to return at a later date and see if I can find a trail or better vantage point.

If traveling on Highway 64, you cross a bridge below a dam for the lake. There is a place to pull off on the westbound side of the road. Carefully cross the road to a walkway above the waterfall.

If you visit the nearby restaurant just around the curve, there is a driveway near the top of the waterfall. There is also Toxaway Village Rentals, a series of privately owned condos, if you wanted to vacation right alongside this magnificent waterfall.

Directions

From Brevard: Toxaway Falls is 16 miles west from downtown. Continue 13 miles west to Cashiers. Look for a large bridge at the base of a hill with a dam to the left. Cross the bridge and park in the graveled area on the left side. Carefully cross US 64 to glimpse the falls on the south side.

GPS Coordinates

To the Waterfall:Lat: 35.123433, Lon: -82.930693

Upper Log Hollow Falls

Posted on September 8, 2022 Written by Leave a Comment

Nearby Areas: Brevard, Daniel Ridge Falls, Discovery Falls, Log Hollow Falls, Logging Road Falls, Looking Glass Falls, Pisgah National Forest State: North Carolina Ease of Trail: Easy

Upper Log Hollow Falls is a pretty 20 foot waterfall located in the Pisgah National Forest, near Brevard. Upper Log Hollow Falls can be accessed by taking the Log Hollow Falls trail, which is well defined and an easy hike.

You park right in front of the gated road, located on a sharp left turn where you will see a large informative forest sign. There are two options available from the parking area – a trail leading up into the woods and the gated FS5042. You’ll want to walk around the gate and follow the service road trail into a large open area.

Less than 0.25 miles from the parking area, you will reach the first bridge. The trail for Discovery Falls is immediately after the bridge on your right. To visit Upper Log Hollow Falls, stay on the main path and continue past the first bridge up the walkway for another 5 minutes or so to the next bridge. You’ll see Log Hollow Falls on your right.

After you view Log Hollow Falls, continue crossing the bridge and look for the side trail immediately on your right as soon as you cross the bridge. This trail leads to the base of Log Hollow Falls. While standing at the base of Log Hollow Falls, look to your left and you’ll see a trail that runs next to Log Hollow Falls. Continue uphill and a short distance up the trail you will see a side view of Upper Log Hollow Falls. After viewing Upper Log Hollow Falls, return to the main trail.

If you would like to extend your hike you can return to the main trail and continue up the trail for another 10 minutes to Logging Road Falls, which is visible from the trail on your right hand side.

To return to the parking area, simply turn around and walk back the way you came. Before visiting Upper Log Hollow Falls, check ahead and make sure you can reach this waterfall as sometimes the connecting roads may be closed due to snow (especially from January to March) or flooding in the area.

This area is remote and there are no restroom facilities at the trailhead. While in the area, you may want to check out Looking Glass Falls, Daniel Ridge Falls, Moore Cove Falls, Cedar Rock Falls and Slick Rock Falls.

Directions

GPS Coordinates

To the Waterfall:35.32453, -82.81147

Waterfall at Rough Ridge Trail

Posted on May 24, 2021 Written by Leave a Comment

Nearby Areas: Blowing Rock, Blue Ridge Parkway, Linn Cove Viaduct, Linville, Linville Falls State: North Carolina Ease of Trail: Roadside

The Waterfall at Rough Ridge Trail is located at milepost 302.8 on the Blue Ridge Parkway. This waterfall is best viewed after heavy rains. Most of the time there is hardly any water flow, as was the time when we last visited in March 2021.

However, even if the waterfall is not visible when you visit, Rough Ridge Trail has some of the best views in the area and well worth a visit. The trail begins to the right of the parking area, just past the waterfall. You begin the trail on a rocky staircase and cross the bridge above the waterfall. Pets are not allowed on the trail past this point due to a protected critical and highly vulnerable plant community.

There are amazing views of Grandfather Mountain and Linn Cove Viaduct. The moderate/strenuous trail gets more difficult as you go, so most people turn around at the boardwalk located 1/3 of a mile into the hike.

Directions

From Blowing Rock: Head south on Main St. Turn right onto US 221(Yonahlossee Road). Turn right onto SR 1552. Turn right onto SR 1571. Turn left onto Blue Ridge Parkway. Park at Rough Ridge Overlook (milepost 302.8) on your right.

GPS Coordinates

To the Trailhead:36.098350, -81.797027

Waterfall Park/Bobby McLean Memorial Park

Posted on June 7, 2016 Written by 2 Comments

Nearby Areas: Newland State: North Carolina Ease of Trail: Easy, Roadside

Waterfall Park 2 — Bottom two waterfalls – higher water flow

Bobby McLean Memorial Park, also known as Waterfall Park is located in Newland, North Carolina. This memorial park honors a local firefighter.

Located fairly close to the Blue Ridge Parkway, this is a great little side stop to have a nice quiet picnic lunch that isn’t crowded. We were actually on the way to the Linville Falls entrance to the Blue Ridge Parkway when we discovered this little gem.

Waterfall Park 7 — Middle waterfall – low flow

Waterfall Park is a three-tiered waterfall that is 50 feet tall. It has a roadside view, so it’s able to be enjoyed by all. There is a little bridge right in front of the waterfall for great family photos. There’s also a trail that runs alongside the waterfall so you can hike up an enjoy different views of the waterfall. There are a few points that are a little steep, but nothing too difficult. There are viewing areas near each tier so you can enjoy them separately as well as all together.

The water flow in this park can vary quite a bit, so I’ve included several pictures with different water levels so you will have an idea of what to expect. This waterfall is best viewed after a good rain.

Bobby McLean Memorial Park is located right next to Highway 194 in Newland. There is an Ingles across the street and a Dollar General down the road from the park. I cannot find an exact address for the park, but you can use the address for the Dollar General, which is 871 Cranberry St, Newland, NC. The park is maintained by the local fire department. There is a little gravel parking area that will hold a few cars.

Walterfall Park 3 — Bottom waterfall – high flow

Waterfall Park 6 — Bottom waterfall – low water flow

Waterfall Park 4 — MIddle waterfall – high water flow

Directions

From Boone, NC: Take US-221 N and turn left onto NC Highway 105 Ext/NC-105. Turn right onto Newland Hwy, which becomes Linville St/NC-181. Turn right onto Pineola St/NC-194. Waterfall Park will be on your right hand side.

GPS Coordinates

To the Waterfall:36.10044,-81.9298

Woodfin Cascades

Posted on May 14, 2016 Written by 2 Comments

Nearby Areas: Blue Ridge Parkway State: North Carolina Ease of Trail: Easy, Roadside

The namesake cascade at the Woodfin Cascades Overlook (Mile Post 445.7 of the Blue Ridge Parkway) is not in the parking area, but on the opposite side of the Blue Ridge Parkway. We actually drove past it the first time we spotted it and had to turn around and go back to see it. It is hard to spot through the trees, especially from the parking area.

Carefully cross the Blue Ridge Parkway. Woodfin Cascades is located just to the left of a trail designated by a post with a blue circle on it. I’m not sure which trail this is, but it may be part of the Mountains-to-Sea Trail.

The best view is to walk out directly in front of the cascade in the grassy area next to the Parkway road (see photo below). Be careful not to get too close to the road though.

Woodfin Trail 2 — Another view from the trail.

You can hike up the trail, however it doesn’t provide any side views of the waterfall itself. It’s a short trail, only 0.25 miles and isn’t known so it is a peaceful walk. It is still scenic and cool (due to being in a wooded area), which is nice on a hot summer day.

I’ve included a few photos from the trail, so you can get an idea of what is visible from the trail. You can get another view of the cascade by taking a steep and heavily overgrown side path that leads down toward the base of the cascade. I would suggest wearing jeans to keep from getting scratched up and offer some protection from ticks and possibly poison ivy. There is a lot of overgrowth that hinders getting to the very bottom of the cascades and the view isn’t any better than the view in front of the cascade, so I wouldn’t recommend trying this side path.

This is very close to the end of the Parkway and there isn’t much to see at this point, so I thought the trail was nice place to get out and stretch your legs.

Directions

Get on the Blue Ridge Parkway where it intersects with Highway 19. Drive to the Woodfin Cascades Overlook at Mile Post 445.7.

There were 37 waterfalls for North Carolina.

Easy Waterfalls for Tennessee

Backbone Falls

Posted on June 21, 2019 Written by Leave a Comment

Nearby Areas: Abingdon, Backbone Rock, Bristol, Damascus, Shady Valley State: Tennessee Ease of Trail: Easy

Backbone Falls is an easy hike to a pretty waterfall located in Backbone Falls Recreation Area. There are many trails in this area that are fun to hike. Backbone Falls is located on the Backbone Falls Trail. It is designated with blue blazes.

The trail is a loop trail, however I recommend that you hike it as an out and back, especially after it has rained recently as the end of the loop is downhill and slippery after rainfall. The trail marker is at the front of the parking area next to a staircase leading to the beginning of the trail.

However, if you go to the far right of the parking lot without climbing those stairs, you’ll see a walkway right next to the road separated by a fence. Take this walkway. It will dead end into the trail. Climb the stairs and you’ll see a sign (Caution Steep Trail With Uneven Footings and Sharp Dropoffs). Keep climbing the stairs until you reach Backbone Falls on your left. It’s about 0.1 miles. We continued on from here, but if you want an easy hike, simply turn around and go back the way you came.

There are more stairs next to Backbone Falls that will take you to the top. There’s not much to see here and no railing or walls. After you cross the top of Backbone Falls the trail continues on a straight path until it hits the descending part of the loop that will take you back to the parking lot.

When we went in June of 2019 there were several large tree branches that had fallen onto the path. It is still passable. This will bring you to an overlook. We couldn’t see the waterfall at all from behind the wall of the overlook.

Directions

From I-81 N: Get off at exit 19 (US11/US58). Turn right onto the road. Stay to the right to keep on US58 E. Turn right onto Shady Ave. Continue onto TN133 S. Enter into the Backbone Falls Recreation Area. Park at the Backbone Falls parking area on the left. It should be the first parking area on the left. The parking area for Backbone Rock is across the street. You should be able to park there if the falls parking lot is full.

GPS Coordinates

To the Trailhead: 36.593323, -81.814681

Badger Flat Falls

Posted on July 14, 2023 Written by Leave a Comment

Nearby Areas: Blue Hole Falls, Great Falls, McMinnville, Rock Island State Park, Twin Falls State: Tennessee Ease of Trail: Easy

Small Cascade at Badger Flat Picnic Area

Badger Flat Falls is a 20-30 foot waterfall (depending on who you talk to) located inside Rock Island State Park. Badger Flat Falls is best viewed by kayak, but can be partially viewed at the Badger Flat Picnic Area. The Badger Flat Picnic Area is just after Area 3 and before the beach.

To view from dry ground park at the Badger Flat parking lot and head toward the picnic tables located in front of the water facing the cliff face. Do not take the path up toward the restroom facilities if you want to view the falls. You should cross a short wooden bridge to reach the picnic tables. After crossing the bridge, take the short trail to your right. You’ll pass several picnic tables. At the end you’ll see two small cascades on your right. If you go to your left and look down below you’ll see the top of Badger Flat Falls. This path dead ends, so you will need to return to the parking lot the way you came.

Badger Flat is a great picnic area and has restroom facilities, grills and trash cans. This is also the entrance to Eagle Trail, which is located right next to the restrooms.

By kayak you can launch at the beach and go to the right. The waterfall will be on your right hand side within a few minutes. This is the best way to view Badger Flat Falls.

Badger Flat Falls is not worth a trip by itself, but it is a great place to picnic and check out a fall while you’re there. Other waterfalls inside Rock Island State Park include: Twin Falls, Great Falls and Blue Hole Falls.

Directions

From TN-136 N: Turn left onto TN-287 S. Turn right onto Beach Rd. Badger Flat Picnic Area will be on your right. The Badger Flat Picnic Area is just after Area 3 and before the beach. Rock Island State Park Address: 82 Beach Road, Rock Island, TN 38581

GPS Coordinates

To the Waterfall:35.816000, -85.643300

Bald River Falls

Posted on May 26, 2016 Written by 6 Comments

Nearby Areas: Cherohala Skyway, Cherokee National Forest, Tellico Plains State: Tennessee Ease of Trail: Easy, Roadside

Important Please note: Bald River Falls is currently closed due to bridge repair. Anticipated completion is the end of 2024.

If you’re looking for a spectacular, family friendly waterfall in Tennessee, then Bald River Falls is for you! This beautiful 90 foot waterfall is roadside. Bald River Falls is located in the Unicoi Range of mountains near the Tennessee/North Carolina state line.

The Tellico Plains region of the Cherokee National Forest has several waterfalls throughout the area. Bald River Falls is one of my favorites. The falls are easily visible from a bridge across the river. There is also a short, easy trail at the end of the parking lot that will take you to the top of Bald River Falls.

Bald River Falls is very easy to find. It is located on Tellico River Road (FS210). There is a turn off for Tellico River Road on the south side of the Cherohala Skyway. It is just east of Osterneck overlook, which was built on an old logging railroad bed, and winds closely along the shore of the Tellico River.

Bald River Falls is just a few miles down from the historic Tellico District Ranger Station, built as a Civilian Conservation Corps project.

Try to visit Bald River Falls on a weekday or early in the morning as parking is limited. It is very busy on weekends and holidays and can be harder to find a parking space and take photos.

Just down the road from Bald River Falls, about 0.5 miles, is another roadside waterfall, Baby Falls. Baby Falls is a small waterfall, but very scenic and worth the short trip down the road.

Directions

From Tellico Plains, turn onto TN 165. Travel about 5 miles. Turn right onto FR 210. Pass the Ranger Station. Bald River Falls is about 6 miles upstream on your right.

GPS Coordinates

To the Waterfall:Lat: 35.323116, Long : -84.175767

Bays Mountain Falls

Posted on March 16, 2016 Written by 2 Comments

Nearby Areas: Bays Mountain, Church Hill, Kingsport State: Tennessee Ease of Trail: Roadside

If you’re looking for an easy waterfall without the crowds, then this one is for you! Bays Mountain Falls is a great roadside waterfall to check out. If you are visiting Laurel Run Falls, or the park that Laurel Run is in, this waterfall is just a few minutes away and well worth the extra stop. This little waterfall is very pretty and scenic.

The waterfall itself is actually on private property, however there is a public viewing area. A fence marks the boundary, so you will know how close you can get.

Don’t confuse this waterfall with Dolan Branch Falls, which is located in Bays Mountain Park.

You can view Bays Mountain Falls roadside. There is a parking space directly in front of the waterfall. You can walk across a small field to get pretty close to the waterfall for closer viewing. A picnic table has been set up at the end of the field so you can enjoy eating a picnic lunch there or curl up with a good book closer to the waterfall.

We visited Bays Mountain Falls in the winter, however I suspect this waterfall will still have good water flow and be very pretty all year round, especially during the fall when the leaves will be changing given the number of trees that line the waterfall.

Directions

From I26, Take to US-11W South to State Hwy 2367/Goshen Valley Rd in Church Hill. Continue on that road till it changes its name to Mountain View Rd. The waterfall will be on your right just before you get to River Rd. From Laurel Run Park Follow the exit just as you entered. Once on Laural Run Rd, the road that the park entrance is on, continue past where you turned to go into the park. The Laural Run Rd becomes River Rd. at this point. When you come to a dead end, you can see the Bays Mountain Falls in front of you. The parking lot is a short zig zag to the right, park there in one of the open spaces.

Google Map: Map Link

GPS Coordinates

To the Trailhead:36.48483 x -82.70337

Big Creek Dam and Waterfall (Amis Mill)

Posted on March 1, 2024 Written by Leave a Comment

Nearby Areas: Bays Mountain Falls, Elrod Falls, Laurel Run Falls, Rogersville State: Tennessee Ease of Trail: Easy, Roadside

Big Creek Dam is the oldest stone dam in the State of Tennessee, constructed in 1781 by Captain Thomas Amis. Along with the mill Capt. Amis built a fort and a mill on Big Creek on the Great Indian Warpath Trail (which would later be called Old Stage Road) with the assistance of John Carter. He went on to build a trading post, blacksmith shop, forge, distillery, tannery and his home, which was used by not only his family but also by travelers heading into the wilderness toward Kentucky. Many famous historic figures including John Sevier, James Robertson, Andrew Jackson, Daniel Boone, Bishop Francis Asbury, Andre Michaux, and numerous revolutionary heroes.

Part of the stone foundation of the original Amis Mill still remains standing beside the creek. Big Creek Dam and waterfall are located on the Thomas Amis Historic Site in Rogersville, Hawkins County, Tennessee. The dam is located across the road from Amis Mill Eatery, a favorite local restaurant.

The waterfall dam is located right by the side of the road so it can be viewed roadside. You can also walk around to different vantage points. Best times to photograph Big Creek Dam and waterfall is early in the morning or later in the afternoon.

If you want to visit nearby waterfalls, Laurel Run Falls and Bays Mountain Falls are about 30 minutes away.

Big Creek Dam and Waterfall located at Thomas Amis Historic Site

Directions

From Rogersville, head east on E. Main St. toward N. Brownlow St. Continue onto TN-347 East/Burem Pike. Turn left onto W. Bear Hallow Rd. Turn right onto Amis Rd. You should see the sign for Amis Mill Eatery. The dam and waterfall will be directly across the road. The address for the Eatery is 127 West Bear Hollow Road, Rogersville, TN 37857.

Big Falls (Old Stone Fort State Archaeological Park)

Posted on August 14, 2023 Written by Leave a Comment

Nearby Areas: Chattanooga, Manchester, Old Stone Fort State Archaeological Park State: Tennessee Ease of Trail: Easy

Old Stone Fort State Archaeological Park contains three impressive waterfalls and a dam, which is great if you are like us and love finding areas where you can view many waterfalls in one location. To reach Big Falls you will pass the dam and Blue Hole Falls so in a short distance you’ll be able to view some of the most well-known areas of the park.

To reach Big Falls, you will start down walkway that goes around the side and behind the Visitor Center to reach the Enclosure Trail. You will want to go to the right when you reach the fork where the trail splits. This trail will lead you along the river. Before you get to Big Falls you will pass the dam, and Blue Hole Falls. After viewing Blue Hole Falls, continue south on the Enclosure Trail another 100 yards you will reach the remains of a paper mill, one of three that were built in this general area. Built in 1879, this mill supplied newsprint to newspapers throughout the Southeast.

There are a couple of places where the main trail will take you to a side trail that is lower. You will want to take one of these to see the waterfall better.

We found a couple of different places where we could cross to the lower trail. Take the one you feel more comfortable with, as it may be steep and/or uneven in parts. We weren’t shy about holding on to a near by tree trunk to steady ourselves if we felt it necessary.

After you view Big Falls, return to the Enclosure Trail. While the Enclosure Trail is technically a loop (approximately 2.7 miles), if all you want to do is see waterfalls, it is faster to return to the visitor center where the trail forks and go to the other side to view Step Falls also located inside the park. This is what we did on our trip and it was much shorter in time and distance.

Directions

Old Stone Fort is located off U.S. Highway 41 in Manchester, Tennessee. From 1-24 turn southwest at the Highway 53 exit and follow the signs 1 1/2 miles to the park entrance. All Manchester exits have signs directing you to the site.

Blue Hole (inside Lamar Alexander State Park)

Posted on August 14, 2024 Written by Leave a Comment

Nearby Areas: State: Tennessee Ease of Trail: Easy, Roadside

Blue Hole is located inside Lamar Alexander Rocky Fork State Park in Unicoi County. Located the Cherokee National Forest, Blue Hole is reached by a narrow one way road with pull-offs. This state park is relatively new, opening in May 2015. The park was changed in January 2019 from Rocky Fork State Park to Lamar Alexander Rocky Fork State Park.

While in Johnson City, I decided to check out Rocky Fork Falls and discovered Blue Hole while looking for a place to park. Since it had rained a lot for several days leading up to our adventure, there was plenty of water flow. We passed several smaller cascades that ran alongside the road while heading toward Rocky Fork Falls and Blue Hole.

There are several pull-offs close to the cascade so you can park and walk to it. Both are located on the right side of the road and can be viewed from the road, although the view from the bottom of the steps to Blue Hole is much better.

We parked at the pull-off right next to Blue Hole. We walked down a few easy steps to the base of the cascade. It was very scenic and quiet in the park so we were able to enjoy Blue Hole and then continue on to Rocky Fork Falls all by ourselves. It’s always so much better when you can enjoy nature without a bunch of other people nearby.

We didn’t get a chance to explore much since we drove through a very large storm to get to the park and it was heading toward us. We hope to visit again in the fall and spend a little more time here exploring more of the park.

Lamar Alexander Rocky Fork State Park, located in Flag Pond, covers 2,076 acres of land in the south Appalachian Mountains of East Tennessee. The park is located approximately 30 minutes from Johnson City and Asheville.

There are several waterfalls in the area if you want to make a day trip of it. While in the area, I would recommend visiting Lower Higgins Creek Falls, Middle Spivey Falls, Lower Spivey Falls and Big Creek Falls. Lower Spivey Falls is on private property, but the owners allow viewing from behind a fence. Big Creek Falls is just a short distance away across the North Carolina state line.

Blue Hole Falls (Old Stone Fort State Archaeological Park)

Posted on August 7, 2023 Written by Leave a Comment

Nearby Areas: Chattanooga, Manchester, Old Stone Fort Archaeological State Park State: Tennessee Ease of Trail: Easy

Old Stone Fort State Archaeological Park contains three impressive waterfalls and a dam, which is great if you are like us and love finding areas where you can view many waterfalls in one location.

Cascading over a horseshoe shaped cliff, Blue Hole Falls, with a 60 foot width, is the widest waterfall in Old Stone State Park. Located downstream from the dam, the right side of Blue Hole Falls has a nice flow year round. To reach Blue Hole Falls, start at the pathway by the visitor center that goes around the side and behind the center. When the trail splits, you will want to take the right fork. This trail will lead you along the river.

Almost immediately you will come to a side trail which will allow you to view the dam. The side trail is very steep. If you take it you will get a good view of the dam, but it is not necessary and you may choose to skip viewing the dam. Continue on the main trail down the river.

A short distance away you will reach Blue Hole Falls. There are a couple of places where the main trail will take you to a side trail that is lower. You will want to take one of these to see the waterfall better.

Continue further down the trail if you want to view Big Falls. While the Enclosure Trail is technically a loop, if all you want to do is see waterfalls, it is faster to return to where the trail forks by the visitor center and take the other side to view the Step Falls, also located inside the park.

Directions

Old Stone Fort is located off U.S. Highway 41 in Manchester, Tennessee. From 1-24 turn southwest at the Highway 53 exit and follow the signs 1-1/2 miles to the park entrance. All Manchester exits have signs directing you to the site.

Cane Creek Cascades

Posted on June 9, 2023 Written by Leave a Comment

Nearby Areas: Cane Creek Falls, Fall Creek Falls, Pikeville, Piney Creek Falls, Rock Island State Park, Rockhouse Falls, Sparta State: Tennessee Ease of Trail: Easy

Cane Creek Cascades is located in Fall Creek Falls State Park. The really great thing about this waterfall is how close it is to many other waterfalls. Fall Creek Falls State Park has numerous waterfalls, including Fall Creek Falls, Cane Creek Falls, Cane Creek Cascades and Piney Creek Falls. Each of these waterfalls has a very easy way to view them with either short hikes or overlooks that are right by the parking areas.

To view this waterfall, park at the Betty Dunn Nature Center and look for the wooden steps behind the building. Take the steps all the way to the bottom and you’ll be at an overlook for Cane Creek Cascades. The stairway is open at the side so you can climb out and venture closer to the waterfall.

When you exit there will be a short path right in front of you that will take you to the top of Cane Creek Cascade. There is an information sign that talks about the history of Cane Creek Cascades.

If you exit the steps and go down the rocky “path” right in front of the stairs it will take you to the base of Cane Creek Cascade. Little children and your four legged friends may need assistance getting down and back up.

Please note that this is a popular swimming hole at Fall Creek Falls State Park and will be extremely busy on hot summer days. Best times to visit are during the week or early in the morning if you don’t want a ton of people in your photos.

Directions

The parking area for this waterfall is at the Betty Dunn Nature Center, located inside Fall Creek Falls State Park. The nature center address is 10821 Park Rd, Pikeville, TN 37367.

GPS Coordinates

To the Waterfall:35.662789 N, 85.3509 W

Cane Creek Falls

Posted on June 7, 2019 Written by Leave a Comment

Nearby Areas: Fall Creek Falls, Pikeville, Spencer State: Tennessee Ease of Trail: Easy, Moderate, Strenuous

Cane Creek Falls is located in Fall Creek Falls State Park. The really great thing about this waterfall is how close it is to many other waterfalls. Fall Creek Falls State Park has numerous waterfalls, including Fall Creek Falls, Cane Creek Falls, Cane Creek Cascades and Piney Creek Falls. Each of these waterfalls has a very easy way to view them with either short hikes or overlooks that are right by the parking areas.

Cane Creek Falls is an 85 foot waterfall. It is right next to Rockhouse Falls and Cane Creek Cascades is accessible from the same parking area, which gives you three waterfalls at the same location. This is always a win in my books!

There are three different ways you can use to view this waterfall. The first is a roadside overlook, which doesn’t give the greatest view, but everyone can see it this way. Follow the wheelchair accessible pathway to the overlook next to the Betty Dunn Nature Center. Cane Creek Falls can be viewed on your left hand side. (Rockhouse Falls is the other waterfall visible at this overlook and on your right side.)

The second is the Gorge Trail, which you can access from the Woodland Trail. Get on the Woodland Trail and after you cross the swinging bridge, turn right at the first fork you come to (this is the Gorge Trail). This will bring you to an overlook for Cane Creek Falls and Rockhouse Falls after taking a short spur trail. This is an easy hike. However the view here isn’t the best as the falls are far off in the distance.

The third is from the Cable Trail, which will take you to the base. Go out the back of the nature center toward the overlook and follow the trail to the right. It runs parallel to the road. Go upward toward the road and you will see the official trail after you cross Rockhouse Creek. Look for the sign for Cable Trail and the cable that takes you to the waterfall base. The round trip for this trail is 0.3 miles. I would label this trail as strenuous as it is difficult to climb down the cable.

My kids and I visited during Spring Break, so the park was very busy. Be sure to come early to visit this waterfall or there will be a long wait to cross the swinging bridge.

There is a large parking area at the nature center with restrooms and water fountains inside the nature center.

Cane Creek Falls Overlook View — Overlook view of Cane Creek Falls

Directions

The parking area for this waterfall is at the Betty Dunn Nature Center, located inside Fall Creek Falls State Park. The nature center address is 10821 Park Rd, Pikeville, TN 37367.

GPS Coordinates

To the Waterfall:35.663119 N, 85.3502 W

Cataract Falls

Posted on May 18, 2016 Written by 5 Comments

Nearby Areas: Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, Smoky Mountains State: Tennessee Ease of Trail: Easy

Cataract Falls is an easy, family friendly trail that is perfect for a beginning hiker. It only takes about 15 minutes to hike to the base of the waterfall. This is a low flow waterfall, so don’t expect it to be big like its neighbors in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park. It is still pretty and scenic, especially after a good rain.

The trail is located behind the Sugarlands Visitor Center. Look for a paved walkway next to the bathrooms and follow the paved walkway to a sign. Turn left to take the trail to Cataract Falls. If you decide to take the trail, which is much prettier and only takes a few more minutes, you will cross Ash Hopper Branch. Then the trail will switch to the other direction briefly and soon the small creek will merge with the larger Fighting Creek. The trail follows the creek underneath a road bridge and then goes up a small flight of stairs. At this point you are about a tenth of a mile from the falls. Take the trail straight to the base of the waterfall. Once you have viewed the waterfall, return to the Visitor Center the way you came.

You can also reach Cataract Falls by going straight when you reach the first sign, just after the restrooms (right at the beginning). If you have a stroller with you, or do not want to climb stairs go straight. If you decide to go straight, keep going straight on the sidewalk until you come to a parking lot. Cross the parking lot and you will come to a street. Turn left onto the street, cross the bridge and look for the path on the opposite side of the road (just after the bridge). Once you see the path, cross the street and take the trail straight to Cataract Falls. Once you have viewed the waterfall, return to the Visitor Center the way you came.

Visitors frequently climb alongside Cataract Falls on the left side to the top tier of the two tiered Cataract Falls. I wouldn’t recommend this because it can become slippery and is a little steep coming back down. The National Park advises against doing this due to the risk of serious injury and death. In March of 2015 a visitor slipped on the rocks and fell 30 feet.

Cataract Falls 4 — Cataract Falls in the Fall.

Cataract Falls 2 — Cataract Falls in the Spring.

Directions

Take the main Parkway (Highway 441) out of Gatlinburg into the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. When you reach Sugarlands Visitor Center (on your right), turn right onto Little River Road and park at the Sugarlands Visitor Center.

GPS Coordinates

To the Waterfall:35.68938, -83.53887

City Lake Falls

Posted on March 28, 2019 Written by Leave a Comment

Nearby Areas: Cookeville State: Tennessee Ease of Trail: Easy

City Lake Falls is located inside the City Lake Natural Area in Cookeville. This park and the trail to the waterfall is family friendly.

The City Lake Natural Area is not busy, so this is your chance to enjoy an easy 0.6 mile round trip hike to a waterfall where you may not even see another person or very few.

The parking area is located next to a beautiful lake. You’ll see the trail that leads you to the waterfall in the back of the parking area. The trail starts out paved, as you pass a building on your right the trail turns to gravel. Stay on the trail until it dead ends into a deck right next to City Lake Falls.

We viewed City Lake Falls a few days after a good rainstorm in the Spring. I would suspect that the flow may be lower other times of the year so you may want to visit the waterfall after a good rain. Even if it does have lower flow, the lake is quite pretty and the park is quiet so you should still be able to have a good time.

Those of you who like to fish make sure to schedule some time to fish for catfish and bass in the lake.

While you are in the area, be sure to visit Waterloo Falls, which is also located in Cookeville.

Directions

To get there from downtown Cookeville, go east on Highway 70N (East Spring Street). Cross over I-40 at exit 290. Turn left onto Poplar Grove Road and then go straight onto Bridgeway Drive. Located inside the City Lake Natural Area.

GPS Coordinates

To the Waterfall:36.134000,-85.445600

Cummins Falls

Posted on June 7, 2024 Written by Leave a Comment

Nearby Areas: Burgess Falls, City Lake Falls, Fall Creek Falls, Lost Creek Falls, Rock Island State Park State: Tennessee Ease of Trail: Easy, Wheelchair Accessible

Located 8 miles away from Cookeville, Cummins Falls is the eighth largest waterfall in volume. This 75 foot waterfall, on the Blackburn Fork State Scenic River on the Eastern Highland Rim, is one of the most accessible waterfalls in Tennessee.

The easy all access to view Cummins Falls is from the overlook. ADA access to the overlook is available upon request including a handicapped parking space or rental of an all-terrain wheelchair (available for adults and children). While you can request accommodations on arrival, it is best if you call ahead (park office phone number 931-268-7223) to make sure there will be one available when you arrive. However, the overlook still has a great view of this magnificent waterfall.

Heading to the Waterfall

Cummins Falls State Park has a large parking lot, with some paved and some grassy. Yet still, when we got there, the parking lot was full, and the grass overflow parking areas were in use. Luckily it has several of those as well.

Upon entering we saw a sign stating the weather conditions (gorge access is only permitted on fair-weather days). There was a ranger checking to see if people needed to purchase their gorge permit, which is required to go to the base of the waterfall (more information on this available below). Since this was a last minute change of plans and we were short on time, we took the short and easy overlook trail, which is less than a mile round trip. This trail is free and does not require a permit.

Keep heading straight past the Visitor Center and you’ll see the entrance to the trail on your left. There are a couple of directions you can go to take you to the overlook, but eventually they all reach the same place.

It was a little slippery on the trail after the recent rain, but not too bad. You’ll come to some stairs that take you down to a gravel road. Keep following the road and you’ll see a parking space on the right for handicap parking (check with a park ranger if you need ADA access) with a paved walkway that takes you to the overlook.

Off to the left is the overlook. There is a large platform where you can look down into the gorge and see Cummins Falls. Cummins Falls has two sections. The first has a plunge drop of 50 feet, that ends in a shallow pool. The second part cascades another 25 feet into a large, deep swimming hole. Cummins Falls has been voted one of the ten best swimming holes in the entire country, and when we were there, we saw many families using it for this purpose. Once you have viewed the falls return the way you came.

Going to the Base of Cummins Falls

If you want to view Cummins Falls from the base it will require a permit, which costs $6 per person. These usually sell out a week in advance during the summer months. This trail is not recommended for children 5 and under. The permit has many safety rules including: children under 12 must wear a life jacket and be supervised by an adult, no alcohol, no coolers, no glass and no pool floats.

The state park website lists the gorge trail as strenuous and is only permitted on fair-weather days (due to the area being prone to flash flooding). The gorge area closes at 5:00 PM in-season. Dogs are permitted, but required to be on a leash. There are two routes that descend into the gorge. One is one mile and the other is 1.5 miles. Both routes are steep with uneven terrain and have significant elevation drops. Once you descend to the river, the majority of the hike is spent either climbing over rocks or wading through the water.

Amenities

Cummins Falls State Park has restroom facilities and a water fountain. When we visited there was a bowl on the ground by the water fountain for dogs to drink from. There is also an information center and gift shop.

History of Cummins Falls

Cummins Falls and all of the land that is now Cummins Falls State Park was previously owned by the Cummins Family from 1825 until it was purchased by The Tennessee Parks and Greenways Foundation in 2011.

Upstream of the falls, John Cummins built the first of two water powered mills in 1825 on Blackburn Fork. Around the mill a small settlement was developed by workers and their families including a general store and a blacksmith shop. A few year later a post office and telephone exchange also operated there. In 1929, the mill was destroyed by a massive flood and was never rebuilt.

After opening to the public in 2012, there was a high number of drowning deaths at Cummins Falls State Park due to the gorge’s unpredictability of flash flooding, even during minor rain. The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation created the new access permit in 2019 to monitor the number visitors entering the gorge. The park also added signage, safety information on their website and a safety education video for public viewing at the trailhead before beginning the hike down. New systems were also put in place to monitor the real-time weather, water levels and they have created refuge areas staffed by rangers in case of an emergency or evacuation.

Nearby Waterfalls

There are several waterfalls that are near Cummins Falls. The closest are in the Cookeville area – Burgess Falls (which has four separate waterfalls on this trail, ending with Burgess), City Lake Falls and Waterloo Falls. You also have several in the Sparta area – Rock Island State Park (with Twin Falls, Great Falls, Badger Flat Falls and Blue Hole Falls) and Lost Creek Falls.

Directions

From Cookeville: Take Exit 286 off of Interstate 40. Drive north on TN 135 for about 11 miles then turn right onto Cummins Mill Road. Drive 2.5 miles and turn right onto Blackburn Fork Road. The park entrance will be on your left hand.

GPS Coordinates

To the Waterfall:36°15′13″N, 85°33′53″W

Debord Falls

Posted on July 7, 2023 Written by Leave a Comment

Nearby Areas: Emory Gap Falls, Lower Potters Falls, Potters Falls, Wartburg State: Tennessee Ease of Trail: Easy

Debord Falls is one of those waterfalls best viewed after a good rain or during early spring. To reach Debord Falls drive into the entrance to Frozen Head State Park and take the road until it dead ends into the parking lot for the Panther Branch Trail.

The trail is wide, but has some rocky and rooty parts. There is a creek near the beginning of the trail, if the water is low here, it will be low at Debord Falls. Right away, the trail crosses the Flat Fork on a concrete bridge and continues following it. Most of the small tributaries have wooden bridges to cross over on this section of the trail. At 0.6 miles, you will reach the short side trail leading to Debord Falls. Go to the right to view the falls.

It will bring you to an observation deck view of the falls. After passing the observation deck, you will see a wooden staircase on your right that descends to the base of the falls.

After viewing Debord Falls return to the main trail, return the way you came to reach the parking lot.

When we visited Debord Falls there had been some recent rain, but apparently not enough and the water flow was low. The park ranger told us that if the water was low at Debord Falls, then it would be even lower at Emory Gap Falls and that it may not be worth the extra hike unless you just wanted to hike. We elected to return to the parking lot.

Should you want to continue on to view Emory Gap Falls, returned to the main trail and continue another 0.7 miles until you reach the junction of Panther Branch trail and the Emory Gap spur trail. At this junction make sure to take the Emory Gap trail straight, and not go over the bridge to your right. From here it is another 0.5 miles to Emory Gap Falls.

Please note that there is a lot of mosquitos in this park. It is also common to see copperhead snakes and woodland rattlers.

There are restrooms located at the park office at 964 Flat Fork Road, Wartburg, TN 37887.

Other nearby waterfalls include Potter’s Falls and Lower Potter’s Falls. They are not much of a hike, but they are pretty and had a lot more water the day we visited.

Directions

Directons: From Harriman take Hwy. 27 north to Wartburg. Turn right (East) on Hwy. 62. Travel 2 miles and turn left onto Flat Fork Road. Drive 4 miles to the Frozen Head State Park entrance. From the entrance stay straight on Flat Fork Road until it dead ends into the trail parking area. Address for Frozen Head State Park - 964 Flat Fork Road, Wartburg, TN 37887

GPS Coordinates

To the Waterfall:36.139300, -84.477700

Dolan Branch Falls

Posted on March 23, 2024 Written by 4 Comments

Nearby Areas: Bays Mountain, Kingsport State: Tennessee Ease of Trail: Easy

Dolan Branch Falls is a pretty 20 foot waterfall located inside Bays Mountain Park. You’ll need to park in the parking lot closest to the main road entering into the park, close to the dam. The trail entrance for Dolan Branch Falls is located across the street from the dam.

When you enter the trail it will go down to below the road level. It is an easy and clearly defined trail that leads to a little bridge right in front of the waterfall. The trail winds downward to the waterfall at the bottom. There is an overlook near the beginning of the trail. Shortly after the overlook there is a side path that will take you to the bridge. Dolan Branch Falls is best viewed in the winter and spring, otherwise there will be low water flow. Dolan Branch Falls is a dam fed waterfall, so if the dam isn’t flowing then the waterfall won’t be either.

Most people have no idea that the waterfall is even there, so it is unlikely that you will encounter anyone down at the waterfall while you are there. It is quite peaceful and serene. I find it very relaxing and quiet – a great place to read or just unwind from a busy week.

After viewing the waterfall, be sure to check out the many other sights to see at Bays Mountain Park. The park features 25 miles of trails. The park contains many animal exhibits including wolves, bobcats, red foxes, reptiles and birds. There is also a seasonal ropes course and a planetarium, both do have minimal fees. Please note that there is a parking fee of $7 per vehicle.

This fall inside of Bay Mountain Park shouldn’t be confused with Bay Mountain Falls.

Directions

Located inside Bays Mountain Park. Address for Bays Mountain Park is 853 Bays Mountain Park Road, Kingsport, TN 37660.

GPS Coordinates

To the Waterfall:Lat: 36.5085 N, Lon: 82.61172 W

Dudley Falls

Posted on August 15, 2023 Written by 2 Comments

Nearby Areas: Cherokee National Forest, Greeneville State: Tennessee Ease of Trail: Easy, Roadside

Dudley Falls is located in the Paint Creek Corridor in the Cherokee National Forest. While not the most impressive waterfall by height (it’s only 15 feet), the waterfall is really easy to find, being roadside. As a bonus, the drive to the waterfall is scenic and peaceful.

Also you will probably find that the rock formations around the waterfall are really interesting.

From the intersection of Rollins Chapel Road and Lower Paint Creek Road, travel just 0.8 miles on Lower Paint Creek Road. Dudley Falls has its own parking area.

The waterfall is viewable from the parking lot itself or you can walk down a few steps for a better view.

There are several picnic areas nearby that are quiet and have restrooms. Also during the summer months, there are several areas in the Paint Creek Corridor where the creek is stocked with trout during the summer months if you like to fish.

If you would like to see another waterfall, just go two miles before you reach Dudley Falls, you can see Kelly Falls. I would recommend visiting Kelly Falls first and then visiting Dudley Falls, as there is no pull off that is easy to use if you visit Dudley Falls first and then drive back to Kelly Falls.

National Forest literature also mentions a Ricker Falls in the area, but we were unable to find it on this trip. We will try again on our next trip.

Directions

From 350 S turn right onto 351 S. Turn left onto 107 W/ 70 S. Turn right onto Rollins Chapel Road. Follow signs to Paint Creek Campgrounds. Turn left onto Lower Paint Creek Road. Keep following this road, be sure to always stay on the paved road. You will enter the Cherokee National Forest. Dudley Falls is located 0.8 miles from the three way fork in the road at the entrance to Paint Creek Campground. Take the paved road down to the right. Go 0.8 miles. Waterfall will be on your right side. Pull into the parking lot and walk down a few steps to view the waterfall.

Elrod Falls

Posted on July 29, 2020 Written by Leave a Comment

Nearby Areas: Morristown, Sneedville State: Tennessee Ease of Trail: Easy

Elrod Falls is a beautiful three stage waterfall located about 10 minutes from the town of Sneedville in Hancock County. The trail to Elrod Falls is a five minute walk to the base of the waterfall. Just in front of the waterfall is a swimming hole frequented by the locals.

I had my five-year-old with me when I visited Elrod Falls, so navigating to the top two stages wasn’t possible on this trip. Next time maybe we can get to them. There are ropes to help you climb up along the short, but steep trail. It is not recommended for inexperienced hikers or young children. You can access this trail by crossing the swimming pool to the other side of the waterfall and you should see the beginning of the trail to take you to the upper two stages. I have been told it is a tough climb, but worth the effort.

The bottom portion of Elrod Falls is 50 feet tall, if you add the top two it is well over 100 feet tall combined. When you take the short 0.1 mile hike from the parking lot, you will come right up to Elrod Falls. You can cross a bridge to take you right up to the base.

This waterfall is best viewed in the morning before lunch, as it starts to get crowded as the day goes on. There is decent parking and several picnic areas nearby. There are no restroom facilities at Elrod Falls.

Directions

From Sneedville, take SR 31 7 miles south to an unnamed gravel road with a wooden sign by the road to take you to Elrod Falls. Turn right onto this road, Elrod Circle. Follow this road for 0.6 miles and then turn left on the first gravel road you see, which will be Elrod Falls Road. You will pass several picnic areas before you reach the parking area for the waterfall. From Mooresburg, take SR 31 11 miles north of Mooresburg to an unnamed gravel road with a wooden sign by the road to take you to Elrod Falls. Turn left onto this road, Elrod Circle. Follow this road for 0.6 miles and then turn left on the first gravel road you see, which will be Elrod Falls Road. You will pass several picnic areas before you reach the parking area for the waterfall.

GPS Coordinates

To the Waterfall:36.4326, -83.2444

Fall Creek Falls

Posted on May 21, 2019 Written by 1 Comment

Nearby Areas: Spencer State: Tennessee Ease of Trail: Easy, Wheelchair Accessible

Everyone always told me that Fall Creek Falls was the most impressive waterfall they’ve ever seen. I’ve seen photos of this waterfall and it did look pretty impressive in those photos, but when we visited it was a trickle. I visited Fall Creek Falls about a week and a half after heavy flooding in the area so I was expecting a magnificent waterfall, especially since all the other waterfalls I visited earlier in the day that were really close had great water flow. However, that’s not what I got. Fall Creek Falls was about what you’d see coming out of your kitchen faucet. The next trip I made with my husband and the water flow was amazing (see photo below to see the difference).

Little did I realize that Fall Creek Falls is dam controlled, so the water flow will vary depending upon the dam. If you want to be sure it will be good water flow on the day you are planning to visit, you may want to call the ranger station first at 423-881-5298.

There is an overlook that you can view Fall Creek Falls that is right off of the parking area, which gives you an excellent view of the waterfall.

If you want to go to the base of the falls, follow the orange blazes of the Base of Fall Creek Falls Trail. Please note that the sign at the beginning of the trail lists it as very strenuous. This trail is heads off from the overlook and continues for 0.4 miles downhill that will take you to the base of the falls, which means you have to return the same 0.4 miles uphill. Since the waterfall was so low when we visited, we did not elect to take this trail. However it is also the base of this part of the gorge so it might be worth a look just for that benefit. However since we still had lots of waterfalls to visit that day, we decided to skip this trail.

While you are there be sure to check out Cane Creek Cascades, Cane Creek Falls, Rockhouse Falls and Piney Creek Falls. All are located inside Fall Creek Falls State Park and are worth a visit.

Directions

From Sparta: Head south on N Main St toward W Bockman Way. Take TN-111 S to Old Tennessee 111 in Van Buren County. Continue on Old Tennessee 111 to the overlook for Fall Creek Falls. Keep a close eye out for signs inside the park.

GPS Coordinates

To the Waterfall:35.66583 N, 85.35583 W

Falling Water Cascades

Posted on April 13, 2019 Written by Leave a Comment

Nearby Areas: Burgess Falls, Cummins Falls, Fall Creek Falls, Lost Creek Falls, Sparta State: Tennessee Ease of Trail: Easy, Roadside

Falling Water Cascades Close Up 1 — Close Up of the left side of Falling Water Cascades

Burgess Falls State Park is home to Falling Water Cascades and three other waterfalls on the same trail. Falling Water Cascades is the first you will come to on the trail. It is only a couple of feet from the parking lot.

From the parking lot, just follow the stairs and your ears straight down to the 20 foot Falling Water Cascades. While this waterfall alone is pretty, it probably wouldn’t be worth a trip just to see it. However, this is just the first of four on this trail and each one along the trail is more impressive than the previous.

Falling Water Cascades Close Up 2 — Close Up of the right side of Falling Water Cascades

Make sure you continue up the trail to see Little Falls, Middle Falls and Burgess Falls.

Burgess Falls State Park has maintained restrooms and a playground if you have little ones. It is a great place to stop if you are traveling on I-40 and want to stretch your legs. Although most people recommend Fall Creek Falls State Park, I enjoyed Burgess much better. Perhaps you can try both and let me know which you prefer.

Directions

Burgess Falls State Park is about 13 miles southwest of Cookeville. From Interstate 40: turn south off the 286 ramp onto State Highway 135. Proceed on Hwy 135 for 7 miles following the signs to the park. There is a sharp turn into the park. The trailhead is right by the parking lot. The Park Office address is 4000 Burgess Falls Drive, Sparta, TN 38583.

GPS Coordinates

To the Waterfall: 36.04451 N, 85.59584 W

Great Falls (Rock Island State Park)

Posted on July 31, 2023 Written by Leave a Comment

Nearby Areas: McMinnville, Rock Island, Rock Island State Park, Sparta State: Tennessee Ease of Trail: Easy, Roadside

Great Falls is one of the easiest waterfalls you’ll ever view. Great Falls is a 30 foot horseshoe cascading waterfall, which is located below the 19th century cotton textile mill that it powered over 100 years ago. Great Falls is visible from an overlook located at the end of a parking lot. It is a series of waterfalls that are fanned out, which resemble many smaller waterfalls are rolled into one really wide one. The view from the overlook is fantastic.

You can also walk to the left of the falls about 200′ and you’ll come across a trail that switches back and forth to the lower area where you can see some cascades and other falls that are hard to see from the upper vantage point. When we went, all the trails leading toward the gorge were closed, however people were still bypassing the warning signs and entering anyway. The website at that time was listing that the dam would be spilling until further notice. Please note that the TVA (Tennessee Valley Authority) controls the dam that feeds water into Great Falls and the gorge, so you’ll want to check the schedule to see if it is safe to go into the area. The gorge is closed when you see strobe lights flashing. Horns are sounded before water is released from the powerhouses, sluiceway or spillways. When you hear these horns, leave the areas upstream and downstream of the dam immediately.

For TVA’s generation schedule and more information on the Great Falls Dam please visit: http://www.tva.gov/lakes/gfh_r.htm

Directions

Coming from the small town of Rock Island we came from the Gorge Access on the Warren County/Old Mill Side. Go through the main entrance gates and turn left onto TN 287. Go past the TVA power station and turn left beside the Old Mill building into the Old Mill parking lot. Be careful as there is not a lot of parking, and you may need to go further down to the next parking lot. Due to limited parking, they ask that you stay no more than 15 minutes. The overlook is visible from the side of the parking lot that you enter.

Kahuna Falls

Posted on October 7, 2016 Written by 1 Comment

Nearby Areas: Cherohala Skyway, Cherokee National Forest, Tellico Plains State: Tennessee Ease of Trail: Easy

While visiting Bald River Falls you probably saw this waterfall and never even realized that it was a different waterfall. Until recently I didn’t know either. I had always thought it was part of Bald River Falls.

After viewing the amazing Bald River Falls, go to the upper end of the parking lot, where you will find a trail that leads up to the top of Bald River Falls. You can just see Kahuna Falls from the overlook, just above the top of Bald River Falls. Continue up the trail for a short distance and you will come to Kahuna Falls.

It is very busy on weekends and holidays. The best time to visit Bald River Falls and Kahuna Falls is on a weekday or early in the morning as parking in the Bald River Falls parking area is limited.

Please note that my rating is only for Kahuna Falls and does not include Bald River Falls (which I rated a five star, our highest rating) in the rating score.

Directions

From Tellico Plains, turn onto TN 165. Travel about 5 miles. Turn right onto FR 210. Pass the Ranger Station. Bald River Falls is about 6 miles upstream on your right.

GPS Coordinates

To the Trailhead:Lat: 35.3238, Long: -84.1776

Kelly Falls

Posted on July 26, 2013 Written by 3 Comments

Nearby Areas: Cherokee National Forest, Greeneville State: Tennessee Ease of Trail: Easy, Roadside

Kelly Falls is located in the Paint Creek Corridor in the Cherokee National Forest. While not the most impressive waterfall by height (it’s only 15 feet), it is still quite pretty.

You’ll find that it’s very easy to get to so there’s bonus points for that if you’re trying to decide to visit it or not. The drive to the waterfall is scenic and peaceful.

The waterfall is located 0.6 miles from the three way fork in the road at the entrance to Paint Creek Campground. Take the paved road down to the right. The waterfall will be on your left side about 0.6 miles. Kelly Falls is located below road level so you’ll probably want a passenger with you to be on the lookout for it so you don’t zoom right past it.

Once you see the waterfall, pass it and park at a pull off on the right. If you reach Dudley Falls (a nearby waterfall which has it’s own parking lot), then you missed it.

After parking, walk back to the waterfall on the side of the road. Be sure to keep a lookout for on-coming traffic, although the road isn’t very busy. While you can see the waterfall from the top of the road there is a short, slightly steep trail that will take you to another view of the waterfall right by the road.

While there’s no place directly to picnic here, there are several places nearby that are quiet and have restrooms. There are several areas in the Paint Creek Corridor if you like to fish and the creek is stocked with trout during the summer months.

If you would like to see another waterfall, just go two miles down the road to see Dudley Falls. This waterfall is also roadside. You can view Dudley Falls from the parking lot or walk down a few steps right in front in front of it. Dudley Falls is also a 15 foot waterfall.

National Forest literature also mentions Ricker Falls in the area, but we were unable to find it on this trip. We will try again on our next trip.

Directions

From 350 S turn right onto 351 S. Turn left onto 107 W/ 70 S. Turn right onto Rollins Chapel Road. Follow signs to Paint Creek Campgrounds. Turn left onto Lower Paint Creek Road. Keep following this road, be sure to always stay on the paved road. You will enter the Cherokee National Forest. The waterfall is located 0.6 miles from the three way fork in the road at the entrance to Paint Creek Campground. Take the paved road down to the right. The waterfall will be on your left side about 0.6 miles. Pass it and park at a pull off on the right.

Laurel Falls (in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park)

Posted on September 29, 2016 Written by 6 Comments

Nearby Areas: Gatlinburg, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Pigeon Forge State: Tennessee Ease of Trail: Easy, Moderate

Upper Laurel Falls — *Upper section of Laurel Falls*

Note: Laurel Falls Trail is closed as of Jan. 6, 2025 for 18 months of rehabilitation work.

Laurel Falls is an extremely popular destination within Great Smoky Mountains National Park due to the fact that it has a paved trail leading up to it. Please note, that while this trail is paved it is not easily traveled by strollers or wheelchairs. There are many sections that have large cracks or gaps that are unpaved. The hike to Laurel Falls and back is 2.6 miles round trip. Hikers will climb roughly 314 feet in elevation before arriving at the 80-foot waterfall. I would rate this trail easy for your average hikers and moderate for those who are new to hiking or hike infrequently.

The waterfall consists of an upper and a lower section, divided by a walkway which crosses Laurel Branch at the base of the upper falls. For this trip we only visited upper falls, however you can look down from the trail and see lower falls. The falls receives its name from the mountain laurel that blooms along the trail and near the falls in May.

Lower Laurel Falls — *Lower section of Laurel Falls as seen from the trail*

There are over 800 miles of trail in the Smoky Mountains National Park, but less than 3 miles are paved. Laurel Falls Trail is the longest of four paved trails in the park. The trail was originally built in 1932 to allow fire crews access to the Cove Mountain area in the event of a fire. By the early 1960s, Laurel Falls had become a popular hiking destination and erosion was taking a toll on the trail. As a result, the Laurel Falls Trail was reconditioned, graded and paved to stop the erosion.

If hiking with children, I recommend keeping a close eye on them at all times as the trail passes next to some very steep drop offs, especially as you get closer to the falls. Some of these drop offs are after blind turns too. This is also bear country and bears have been seen along and near this trail, so please keep your eyes open.

The best time to see Laurel Falls is early in the morning or later in the day. During the midday the sun creates many hot spots on the waterfall making it harder to photograph. Plus the waterfall is busier in the afternoons and it can be harder to photograph with so many people around. Parking can also be a problem during peak season, so if you wish to avoid crowds weekdays or during the off-season would be a better time to visit.

Directions

From the Sugarlands Visitor Center near Gatlinburg, drive 3.8 miles to the top of Fighting Creek Gap. The parking lot for Laurel Falls will be on your right. The address for Sugarlands Visitor Center is 1420 Fighting Creek Gap Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738.

GPS Coordinates

To the Trailhead:Lat: 35.67208, Long: - 83.58068

Ledford Mill Falls

Posted on November 14, 2024 Written by Leave a Comment

Nearby Areas: State: Tennessee Ease of Trail: Easy, Roadside

While in the area visiting Rutledge Falls and Machine Falls I decided to add Ledford Mill and its waterfall to our visit. I enjoy visiting mills, as well as waterfalls.

Ledford Mill, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, was built about 1880 by Stanford Ledford on the same site of an earlier mill that had been destroyed by a fire. The mill continued in operation until the end of World War II, closing in 1946. Now Ledford Mill is home to a three-room bed and breakfast and antiques shop. It was closed during our visit, so we were only able to view the waterfall from the roadside. I hope to visit again sometime and check out the shop and hopefully get a better view of the waterfall.

If you are heading from Tullahoma, go northwest on US 41A. As you leave town, look for Ledford’s Mill Road on your left. Turn left onto Ledford Mill Road and drive about three miles. When Ledford Mill Road veers left, continue straight onto Shipman Creek Road. Continue down the road a little way. You’ll soon see Ledford Mill on your right. The road leads right up to the door on an upper floor of the mill. If the mill is closed, like it was on our visit, you’ll need to drive past it and you’ll come to a small paved pull-off which can hold 3 or 4 cars. After you park you can walk back to view the waterfall from the road.

While driving down to the pull-off, you’ll see Wetumpka Falls on your left side. After parking we visited Wetumpka Falls and then continued on foot to the mill. There was a locked gate across the entrance so we walked along the road heading away from the mill. From the edge of the road we were able to view the side of Ledford Mill Falls.

Directions

If you are heading from Tullahoma, go northwest on US 41A. As you leave town, look for Ledford’s Mill Road on your left. Turn left onto Ledford Mill Road and drive about three miles. When Ledford Mill Road veers left, continue straight onto Shipman Creek Road. Continue down the road a little way. You’ll soon see Ledford Mill on your right. The road leads right up to the door on an upper floor of the mill. If the mill is closed, like it was on our visit, you'll need to drive past it and you’ll come to a small paved pull-off which can hold 3 or 4 cars. After you park you can walk back to view the waterfall from the road. Address: 1195 Shipman Creek Rd, Wartrace, TN 37183

Little Egypt Falls/Triple Falls/Bruce Creek Falls

Posted on May 31, 2024 Written by Leave a Comment

Nearby Areas: Caryville State: Tennessee Ease of Trail: Easy

Little Egypt Falls (also known as Triple Falls and Bruce Creek Falls – because it is on Bruce Creek) is one of the prettiest waterfalls I’ve ever seen. It’s quite unique with how it is set into the rocks.

This hike is actually part of a longer trail starting at Cove Lake State Park, but there’s a parking area on Shelton Hollow Lane, which is where we began our hike. There is limited parking at this location. BTW: The State Park looked like a nice area to have a picnic lunch and/or let your kids out to stretch their legs and play for a bit while you rest if you need to. We didn’t have our kids with us on this trip, so we didn’t use it, but it was something we are keeping in mind for when we return.

We initially tried putting Little Egypt Falls into Google Maps and it took us to the completely wrong location, although not far from our destination. So then we tried Triple Falls and it gave us even worse results, giving us directions to Triple Falls in North Carolina. So we entered Triple Falls Parking Lot and it took us right to the pull off parking area. There is only room for a few cars, but as it is tucked away, you probably won’t have any issues finding a spot.

We went right after it had rained, and then it started raining again when we were down by the falls. Given the forecast for rain and that it had already rained earlier in the day and continued raining off an on all day gave us the whole place to ourselves.

There are several boulders right by the parking area. We parked in front of one, as they made for easy parking spaces.

There aren’t any signs or markers at the trailhead, but you should be able to see the beginning of the trail off to the side of the parking area. It was easy to find.

First waterfall on trail to Triple Falls/Little Egypt

After leaving the pull off parking area, we walked a short distance and the trail split. We went to the right, which in the wet, slippery conditions seemed like the easier path. The trail followed alongside the Bruce Creek. (Hint: This was wrong, so you will want to pick the left trail.)

The Right Side Trail – Venture if You Want

However, this trail led not to a waterfall, but to an area which locals liked to use for a recreation area. There was a fire pit, and unfortunately some broken glass bottles, so be careful. Luckily for us, you could see the other trail, and we simply went up a small slope and got on the correct trail.

Back on the Correct (Left) Trail

Within 0.2 miles of starting the trail, we came across the first waterfall on the trail, which was pretty and had great water flow after all the recent rain. There are several paths that you can take down to the first waterfall, but with all the muddy conditions and slippery leaf covered walkways, we got as close as we dared and still had a splendid view. We returned to the trail and continued onward to Little Egypt Falls.

One of the cascades we passed on the way to Little Egypt Falls — Cascade on the way to Little Egypt Falls

You’ll pass several really pretty cascades on the way to Little Egypt Falls. Since we had the trail all to ourselves, we could take our time and climb down for closer looks at all the cascades. Many people like to head straight to the main attraction, but I like to look at all the beautiful surroundings along the way. This trail had plenty to offer and was quite peaceful on this misty, rainy morning.

The Big Falls

Less than half a mile into the hike, Little Egypt Falls came into view. The waterfall is nestled into the rocks, framing one of the most unique waterfalls I’ve ever seen. I was glad we had the place to ourselves so we could just take time to appreciate the beauty of nature. The conditions of the path leading down to the base of Little Egypt Falls was much easier to navigate, so we explored around the base for a little while.

At this point, we returned to the trail and headed back to the parking area as it was raining and the trail was already muddy. If you continue up the trail, you will come to a bridge, cross the bridge and continue the uphill climb to the Devil’s Racetrack overlook, which gives you a 360 degree view of the mountains. This part of the trail would be considered moderate, however the portion with the waterfalls is easy. Hiking distance, including Devil’s Racetrack, is 2.3 miles, while the hiking distance just to Little Egypt Falls and then returning to the parking lot is a little less than a one mile round trip.

Note: There are no restrooms at this parking area so plan ahead.

Directions

Take Exit #134 off of I-75, which is the Cove Lake Exit. Go 1/2 mile then turn left onto Park Road. Continue on Loop Road, when park road changes names. Turn left onto Shelton Hollow Lane. Look for the small gravel parking area on the right by a group of large rocks about .2 mile down the road.

Little Falls (sometimes called Upper Falls or First Falls)

Posted on April 18, 2019 Written by 1 Comment

Nearby Areas: Burgess Falls, Cummins Falls, Fall Creek Falls, Lost Creek Falls, Sparta State: Tennessee Ease of Trail: Easy

Burgess Falls State Park is home to Upper Falls and three other waterfalls on the same trail. Upper Falls is the second you will come to on the trail.

From the parking lot, just follow the stairs and your ears straight down to the 20 foot Falling Water Cascades. After viewing Falling Water Cascades continue down the trail. There are a few roots protruding from the trail so watch your step. The overlook for Upper Falls is right before you get to the large wooden bridge. However, I think the view just after you cross the bridge is better (at least in the Spring, when I visited).

The remains of a pipeline bridge that used to cross the river into a tunnel on the north wall of the gorge is visible above Upper Falls. The bridge used to cross by Upper Falls and again near Middle Falls to a powerhouse.

While this waterfall alone is pretty, it probably wouldn’t be worth a trip just to see it. However, this is just the one of four on this trail and each one along the trail is more impressive than the previous.

Make sure you continue up the trail to see Middle Falls and Burgess Falls.

Directions

GPS Coordinates

To the Waterfall:36° 2.639' N, 85° 35.781' W

Little Laurel Branch Falls

Posted on February 10, 2016 Written by 1 Comment

Nearby Areas: Elizabethton State: Tennessee Ease of Trail: Easy, Roadside

Little Laurel Branch Falls is 50 foot waterfall that empties into Wilbur Lake. It is located near Elizabethton, TN in Carter County between Wilbur Dam and Watauga Dam. While not the most impressive waterfall, it is scenic and serene.

Wilbur Lake is a well-known bird watching area with bald eagles, yellow-throated warblers, great horned owls, whippoorwills, many species of ducks and a variety of other birds.

It is located across from a picnic area. The picnic area is less than half a mile from Wilbur Dam on the left hand side. There’s even a picnic table right at the edge of the lake directly across from the waterfall. So pack a lunch at eat in front of the waterfall. There’s not many waterfalls you can do that at. There’s plenty of parking and a very short easy trail that heads down from the parking area to the lake. The picnic area has several tables and places to dispose of your trash, but no facilities.

This waterfall is perfect for people of all ages, although it is not wheelchair accessible.

This waterfall is best viewed after a good rainfall. It is also a good idea to visit when there is some cloud cover so the waterfall will photograph better. We were fortunate when we visited that there was great water flow. In fact in one area the water almost reached the bottom of a crossing bridge. I would recommend visiting this waterfall in the Winter or Spring to increase your chances of better water flow and reduce the chances of foliage obstructing the view of the falls.

But even if there’s still low water flow, you can still stop at the Wilbur Dam, which is interesting to look at and worth a quick stop.

Directions

From Elizabethton - Starting at the intersection of Broad Street and Hwy 19E, follow Hwy 91. Go about 7 miles east past the Elizabethton Airport. Turn right onto Blue Springs Road. Blue Springs Road makes a sharp left turn, but do not turn. Continue straight ahead onto Steel Bridge Road. Turn right, over the bridge and continue onto Wilbur Dam Road. Continue straight along the river on Horseshoe Dam Road/Wilbur Dam Road. Pass the Wilbur Dam and continue, crossing the river. Shortly after look for a picnic area. If you get to Watauga Dam, you've gone too far. Waterfall is directly across the lake from the picnic area.

Lost Creek Falls

Posted on May 5, 2019 Written by 1 Comment

Nearby Areas: Fall Creek Falls, Sparta State: Tennessee Ease of Trail: Easy

Lost Creek Falls is a 40 foot waterfall that flows directly into a sinkhole located inside Lost Creek State Natural Area. Lost Creek begins from large spring, drops over the falls, and then disappears underground.

The Lost Creek State Natural Area, was originally owned by John White, a Revolutionary War veteran, who homesteaded there. Lost Creek Falls was the water source for his family. It is believed that his daughter was ambushed by Native Americans at this location.

In 1993 Disney filmed scenes for their live action version of “The Jungle Book” here, using both the waterfall and cave entrance. While filming the movie, a 20-foot high styrofoam Hindu temple lion was placed in the entrance of the cave.

Lost Creek Falls and White’s Cave are only a 0.2 mile out and back hike from the parking area. The waterfall and cave can be reached by walking down stairs that lead to a short path to the base of the waterfall. The trail has blue blazes to follow that lead to the waterfall.

The cave was closed when we visited and the sign stated that they would be closed until further notice to stop the spread of white-nose to the bats living in the cave. If you would like to explore the cave, you must obtain a permit from Fall Creek Falls State Park.

Rylander Cascades is located just down the road from Lost Creek Falls. It can be accessed from another parking area. We were unable to visit it this trip due to lack of parking available.

*Lost Creek Falls Spring in the late Spring*

Directions

From Sparta: Get on E. Maple, just south of the White County Courthouse. Go one block, and turn right onto Young Street. Young Street becomes Hickory Valley Road. Go 3.4 miles to a fork in the road, and turn left. Go 5.6 miles and make a hard right to stay on Lost Creek Road. The road straight ahead is a dead end. Go another 2.4 miles and you will enter the State Natural Area. The parking lot is another 0.3 miles on the right. Pay close attention for the entrance as it is easy to miss.

GPS Coordinates

To the Trailhead:N 35 50.442, W 85 21.660

Lower Potter’s Falls

Posted on June 30, 2023 Written by Leave a Comment

Nearby Areas: Debord Falls, Emory Gap Falls, Frozen Head State Park, Potters Falls, Wartburg State: Tennessee Ease of Trail: Easy

Lower Potter’s Falls is located on the Cumberland Plateau in Tennessee in Morgan County on Crooked Fork Creek, a tributary of Emory River. Lower Potter’s Falls is part of a series of two waterfalls. Lower Potter’s Falls is 18-feet tall and spans the width of Crooked Fork Creek.

Potter’s Falls is a semi locally known area that is located near Frozen Head State Park in Wartburg. To get to Potter’s Falls is fairly simple. Parking can be a bit challenging, especially during the summer as it is a popular local swimming hole, as evidenced by the rope swing that you can swing from the top of the waterfall. There are only a couple of spaces at the trailhead and a few gravel pull off spaces along the side of the road. If you park in front of the trailhead, you’ll need to carefully back out, as it is by a turn with limited visibility of oncoming cars.

Continue down the trail. In just a few minutes, you’ll see another side trail that will take you to Lower Potter’s Falls. Both trails are about 0.2 miles combined.

Lower Potter’s Falls is comprised of two sections, the first is 12 feet and the second is 6 feet for a combined height of 18 feet. The pilot for the television show “Young Daniel Boone” was filmed here, however the show was not successful.

No restroom facilities are available on site. While in the area I would recommend visiting Frozen Head State Park and checking out Debord Falls (and Emory Gap Falls if it has rained recently).

The base of Lower Potter's Falls — The base of Lower Potter’s Falls

Directions

Directions: From Wartburg on Main Street next to Rite Aid Pharmacy.. turn LEFT onto Old Mill Rd. Stay on that for about 1/2 mile. Then turn LEFT onto Potters Falls Rd. for about 1 1/2 miles to Potters Falls at the bridge. There will be space to park about four or five cars.Park well off the road.

GPS Coordinates

To the Waterfall: 36.0818, -84.5776

Lower Spivey Falls

Posted on August 14, 2016 Written by 3 Comments

Nearby Areas: Erwin State: Tennessee Ease of Trail: Easy, Roadside

Lower Spivey Falls is a pretty, 50 foot waterfall located on private property.

Lower Spivey Falls is part of a series of four large waterfalls, all of which are privately owned. There is a parking space right in front of the waterfall, which can be seen at a distance. There is a gate between the parking space and the waterfall. Visitors are not allowed beyond the gate. Even from this distance, the waterfall is impressive and unique.

The waterfall is visible to the naked eye, however it’s possible to zoom in and get a good shot. There is a small creek that feeds off of the waterfall, making for a very scenic area. The owners do allow visitors but ask that they not approach the waterfall or the creek (which is also blocked off by a fence).

If you have time, you should check out Big Creek Falls. If you continue on Spivey Mountain Road (19W) just a little bit longer, you will enter North Carolina. Big Creek Falls is located right next to 19W on the right side of the road.

Directions

Take I-26 E/US19 W toward Asheville. Get off at Exit 43 (19W/TN352/Temple Hill Rd). Go 3/10th mile. Turn left onto US 19W South. Then at stop sign turn right and go 1.1 miles until the road forks. Turn left, staying on 19W for 3.0-3.4 miles to Chandler Cove Road on your Right. Lower Spivey Falls is 1/3 of a mile in front of you.

Machine Falls

Posted on January 13, 2025 Written by Leave a Comment

Nearby Areas: Rutledge Falls State: Tennessee Ease of Trail: Easy, Moderate

Machine Falls is an impressive 60 foot waterfall located inside the Short Springs Natural Area, located between Tullahoma and Manchester. Short Springs National Area contains several waterfalls, which can all be accessed from the same starting trail. When we visited in October, we walked the entire area. While there are signs denoting the loops they can be confusing and cross the same spots in several places, making it easy to get turned around. If you are directionally challenged like I am, you might want to bring drinking water with you.

During our visit Upper Busby Falls, Lower Busby Falls and Adams Falls were completely dry. Upper and Lower Busby Falls are on the same loop as Machine Falls, while Adams Falls can be accessed through a different loop trail. Unless visiting during peak water flow times (late Winter/early Spring), I would just visit Machine Falls and return the way you came. Then you can drive a short distance away and visit Rutledge Falls. If you are just visiting Machine Falls I would consider the trail easy, however if you complete the entire loop I would consider the trail moderate.

To visit Machine Falls, enter the Short Springs State Natural Area. You’ll want to park at the water tower parking lot, which is relatively small so arrive early to find a place to park. There are several signs stating that parking is not permitted in other areas and to return later if parking spaces are not available. After parking you will cross Short Springs Road. Many people have a hard time finding the trailhead from the parking lot. Look for the crosswalk on the road. Cross at the crosswalk and you’ll be at the trailhead entrance.

Stay on the white blazed trail and in about 15 minutes you’ll reach the wooden observation platform for Machine Falls, where you can look down upon Machine Falls from above. When we visited the platform was closed from storm damage.

If you stay on the trail and pass the platform you’ll descend down a rather steep set of wooden steps. You’ll see a wooden bridge crossing a creek. Don’t cross the bridge. Head toward the water’s edge to reach the base of Machine Falls. As a minimum your shoes will get wet if you want to view Machine Falls from the base. Work your way along the creek’s edge to a more natural dirt platform. From there you can climb down to the water. There are several vantage points that you can view the waterfall with only getting your shoes slightly wet. If you want a really good view or to walk up to the base, keep venturing forward until you reach the base.

The day we went it was very slippery so I only went about halfway to the base of the waterfall. Water shoes would be helpful, as my tennis shoes slipped quite a bit. We visited in October, which is low water flow for the waterfall, but it was still impressive reaching 60 feet high and almost as wide.

From here I returned to the white blazed trail and crossed the bridge. If it hasn’t rained recently or isn’t during peak water flow I would return to the parking lot as the rest of the waterfalls will be dry like they were on our trip.

On the other side of the bridge you can follow the sign to Adams Falls Loop (Orange marked trail). The path is relatively wide and easy to follow. Sadly we could see where Adams Falls should be, but it was completely dry.

Continue on the trail until you reach a sign with multiple options. Continue on to the Busby Falls Trail (Blue blazed trail). Cross over Bobo Creek using the wood bridge and make your way down to the water. Then follow the stream past multiple cascades and fallen trees and you should see Upper Busby Falls, followed by the Lower Busby Falls. Unfortunately the waterfalls were dry when we visited. From there you continue along the Busby Falls Trail until it meets up with the main trailhead, just a short walk from the parking lot. Here was where we encountered a snake on the trail. We just waited until it crossed and moved away from the trail before continuing to the parking lot.

While in the area, be sure to visit Rutledge Falls just a few minutes away. In addition to Rutledge Falls we also visited Ledford Mill Falls and Wetumpka Falls, two roadside waterfalls near Tullahoma.

Mannis Branch Falls

Posted on December 19, 2016 Written by 1 Comment

Nearby Areas: Elkmont, Gatlinburg, Great Smoky Mountains, Townsend State: Tennessee Ease of Trail: Easy

From what we were able to see, Mannis Branch Falls is quite scenic. Unfortunately when we went to see the waterfall (in the late Spring, early Summer) it was mostly hidden behind the trees. In our photos you really can only see the bottom of the waterfall. The top part is almost completely blocked from view.

It looks to be between 25-35 feet in height and flows into Little River inside the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The waterfall was rated for the time of our visit and does not reflect other seasons not yet viewed at this waterfall.

To get to Mannis Branch Falls, head toward Elkmont Campground. Just a short distance away there will be a paved pulloff for you to park at. Follow the roadside. Watch for cars as they don’t always leave a lot of space from the edge of the road and are quite close. Look for a fisherman’s trail about 50 yards away from the parking area and make your way down the trail to Little River.

Across Little River you should see Mannis Branch Falls. Do NOT wade into the water or try to cross Little River. There is a strong current here and it is extremely dangerous.

If you hope to get a good view of this waterfall I would recommend the end of Fall after the leaves have changed and started to fall off the surrounding trees or in the Winter when all the leaves have fallen. This way hopefully there will be a better view of the waterfall which will not be blocked by the foliage.

Directions

Located 1.5 miles west of the road to Elkmont Campground between Gatlinburg and Townsend. The address for the campground is 434 Elkmont Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738. Park in the paved pulloff in a nearby curve. Walk along the roadside from the parking area. There will be a fisherman's path about 50 yards up the road. Follow the path down to Little River. Waterfall is visible on the opposite side of the river.

Meigs Falls

Posted on January 25, 2016 Written by 1 Comment

Nearby Areas: Gatlinburg, Smoky Mountains, Townsend State: Tennessee Ease of Trail: Moderate, Roadside

Meigs Falls is a 30 foot waterfall that can be seen from a pull-off on Little River Road between Cades Cove and Sugarlands Visitor Center. The view is partially obstructed by trees in the summertime; otherwise the view is good, if not great.

The best thing about this waterfall is that you can literally sit in your car and look at it. The downside is that it is far away, requiring a telephoto lens to photograph the waterfall and actually be able to see it in the photo later and realize that there was a waterfall.

There is a trail to access Upper Meigs Falls, which I have not personally tried yet (on my list of things to do) at The Sinks. It is a 3 mile round trip moderate/strenuous hike on the Meigs Creek Trail. This trail requires you to cross the creek several times.

Directions

Meigs Falls is 13 miles from Sugarlands Visitor Center. Go west on Little River Road, the pull-off will be on your left one mile past The Sinks. There is usually a lot of cars, so you shouldn't have a hard time spotting the pull-off.

GPS Coordinates

To the Waterfall:35.668972, -83.675110

Middle Fork Falls

Posted on March 28, 2019 Written by Leave a Comment

Nearby Areas: Oliver Springs State: Tennessee Ease of Trail: Easy, Roadside

Middle Fork Falls is a 25 foot waterfall located in Oliver Springs. It is a roadside waterfall.

We attempted to view this waterfall in March of 2019, but were unable to reach the waterfall. The road was blocked by a gate about 3-4 miles away from the waterfall. This may have been due to the extreme flooding recently in the area.

We will attempt to try this one again at a later date, but are listing it should it be on your list of waterfalls to visit. We don’t want you to make the trip and be unable to view it, like ourselves.

Be sure to check out some of our other waterfalls in Tennessee. There’s lots of great waterfalls in Tennessee to see.

Directions

From Knoxville: Take I-40 W and take exit 376 to merge onto TN-162 N toward Maryville/Oak Ridge. Merge onto TN-62 W. Turn right to stay on TN-62 W. Your destination will be on your left.

GPS Coordinates

To the Waterfall:36.0557, -84.4403

Millstone Creek Falls

Posted on June 27, 2023 Written by Leave a Comment

Nearby Areas: Erwin State: Tennessee Ease of Trail: Easy, Moderate

Millstone Creek Falls isn’t one of the easiest to find, but if you follow the directions, you shouldn’t have too hard a time finding this 30 foot waterfall. Millstone Creek Falls is located on private property on the western side of Buffalo Mountain in Washington County, but the owners give permission so long as visitors respect the property and don’t litter.

The trailhead is located just across the road from a pulloff. There are others not far away if this one is full. The hike is only 150 yards. I would rate it an easy/moderate depending on the trail conditions.

The trail goes upward from the entrance and there are some roots growing in the trail. It’s not difficult in dry weather, but can be a little slick if it has rained recently so you may want to bring a hiking stick to help on one part at the beginning/end. The waterfall is nestled in between two cliffs. You will go back the way you came.

Directions

From Johnson City, take I-26 toward Erwin. Get off at Exit 37 and turn right at the end of the ramp onto Highway 81/107. Go approximately 4.1 miles and turn right onto Arnold Road. Continue for 0.9 miles. Park on the left side of the road in a pulloff next to a large boulder. There is no sign here so be looking for the pulloff. You will pass one or two previous pulloffs before you get to this one. The unmarked trail is across the street from the pulloff. The falls are about 150 yards up the path.

GPS Coordinates

To the Waterfall:36.189500, -82.448600

Noisy Falls

Posted on June 1, 2024 Written by Leave a Comment

Nearby Areas: Cosby, Smoky Mountains State: Tennessee Ease of Trail: Roadside

Noisy Falls is a roadside waterfall near Cosby, Tennessee. There may not be much water flow on this waterfall, but it is still pretty to look at. The total height is between 20-30 feet.

This waterfall is similar to the Place of a Thousand Drips, located nearby in the Smoky Mountains National Park. Noisy Falls looks best after a good rain which dramatically showcases the flow of water splitting into intricate pathways that cascade around the rocks causing a spiderweb effect on the way down toward the bottom of the waterfall. However if there hasn’t been a good rain recently it is reduced to trickles of water and you’ll drive right past it without even knowing it was there (even when you are looking for it).

During Spring, the green moss with all the different waterways spreading out across the rock face is quite beautiful and worth checking out if you are nearby in the Greenbrier area of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park or in Cosby.

From Cosby, the location is 6.5 miles past the highway’s junction with SR 32. You will enter Sevier County. Smoky Bear Campground is just shy of two miles before you reach the waterfall. You’ll see a sign for Pittman Center right before you come to a bridge. Park in the grassy area just before you reach the bridge in front of the sign. The waterfall is on the opposite side of the road even with the middle of the bridge. If crossing the road to view the waterfall, be careful as people speed through this section of road (ask us how we know).

Directions

Noisy Falls is located 5.7 miles east of the Greenbrier junction along U.S. 321. Park at a small unsigned grassy shoulder just wide enough to park along the north side of the road. It's just beyond (east) of the private drive named Noisy Falls Lane. From Cosby, the location is 6.5 miles past the highway's junction with SR 32. You will enter Sevier County. Smoky Bear Campground is just shy of two miles before you reach the waterfall. You’ll see a sign for Pittman Center right before you come to a bridge. Park in the grassy area just before you reach the bridge in front of the sign. The waterfall is on the opposite side of the road even with the middle of the bridge. If crossing the road to view the waterfall, be careful as people speed through this section.

Pine Ridge Falls

Posted on April 3, 2020 Written by 1 Comment

Nearby Areas: Cherokee National Forest, Sill Branch Falls State: Tennessee Ease of Trail: Easy

Pine Ridge Falls is a 25 foot waterfall, located in the beautiful Clark’s Creek area of the Cherokee National Forest in Unicoi County, TN. The hike to Pine Ridge is an easy one mile round trip. The trail is well maintained and not too busy. There is one creek crossing that can be tricky when the water’s up. It gave us a little bit of a challenge getting our toddler across when we went, but otherwise he had no problems walking this trail.

You’ll follow the Longarm Branch Trail at the beginning to reach Pine Ridge Falls. You should see the trail sign from the parking area. Take the Longarm Branch Trail and just after you cross the stream the trail forks. Longarm Branch Trail continues right. But you’ll want to take the path to the left to get to Pine Ridge Falls. This will bring you to the base of the waterfall or you can continue up to the top part of the waterfall.

You may encounter other hikers along the way, but the trail is wide enough to allow easy passing as this is an out and back trail and when you get to the waterfall, you’ll have to turn around and return the way you came.

There are many different angles you can photograph this waterfall from, however if you want to photograph the entire waterfall, you will have to walk across a few rocks (your feet may get a little wet, but it’s worth it).

While you are there be sure to check out Sill Branch Falls, just down the road. It also has its own parking area 0.2 miles away.

Directions

From Route 107, turn left on Clark's Creek Road and drive 3.3 miles (the last 1.9 will be gravel) into the Cherokee National Forest to a parking area on the left. It's 0.2 miles past the parking area for Sill Branch Falls. A small brown sign will indicate the trailhead for "Longarm Branch Trail." From the trailhead, follow the Longarm Branch Trail until just after the stream crossing. Here the trail forks with Longarm Branch Trail continuing right. The path to Pine Ridge Falls is to the left leading up a hill that brings you to the base of Pine Ridge Falls.

GPS Coordinates

To the Waterfall:N 36° 7.518', W 082° 32.264'

Piney Creek Falls

Posted on June 13, 2019 Written by Leave a Comment

Nearby Areas: Fall Creek Falls, Spencer State: Tennessee Ease of Trail: Easy

Piney Creek Falls is located inside Fall Creek Falls State Park. Piney Creek Falls is a pretty waterfall that is easily viewable from an overlook located just a few minutes away from the parking area. A short trail about 0.2 miles will take you to the overlook for Piney Creek Falls. There is some obstruction of the waterfall from trees surrounding it, but it is still very scenic and peaceful.

I wish the view from the overlook had not been obstructed as Piney Creek Falls is an unusually shaped waterfall and was quite interesting to look at.

There is another path nearby that you can take for a different view that crosses a suspension bridge, however the view is mostly blocked and not any better than the view from the overlook.

There used to be a five mile strenuous trail to take you to the base of the falls, however now there is a barricade blocking access the base of the falls. Over the past few years rescue crews have been sent in to rescue hikers who underestimated this hike causing them to close off this trail.

Directions

From Spencer: Head south on Sparta St toward College St. Turn left onto TN-30 E/College St. Continue to follow TN-30 E. Turn right onto TN-284 W. Turn right toward Village Camp Rd. Turn left onto Village Camp Rd. Turn right onto Lakeside Rd. Turn right toward Scenic Loop Rd and then turn right onto Scenic Loop Rd. Bear slightly left and then turn right into the parking area.

GPS Coordinates

To the Trailhead:35.677128° N, 85.377255° W

Place of a Thousand Drips

Posted on June 11, 2016 Written by Leave a Comment

Nearby Areas: Gatlinburg, Smoky Mountains State: Tennessee Ease of Trail: Roadside

The Place of a Thousand Drips is a low flow waterfall that can be seen from your vehicle. It’s name is quite fitting. After a good rain it can be quite dramatic as the flow of water splits into many small bands of water cascading around the rocks and creates a “thousand drips”, however if there hasn’t been a good rain recently it is reduced to trickles of water and you’ll drive right past it without even knowing it was there (even when you are looking for it).

The Place of a Thousand Drips starts at the top with high rocks and a small cave and cascades down 30 feet.

The waterfall is unusual due to the interesting grooves and channels worn into the rocks over time creating intricate pathways that split apart and rejoin many times on the way toward the bottom of the waterfall. During wet times the green moss with all the different waterways spreading out across the rock face is a sight well worth seeing. There is a little stairway that runs alongside it to the top of the waterfall.

The waterfall is located in Gatlinburg inside the Great Smoky Mountains National Park on its Roaring Fork Nature Motor Trail at the very end, near post #15. The road is a one-way, winding road that travels about 6 miles through spectacular scenery that you can see from the comfort of your car.

I highly recommend the Nature Motor Trail even if it hasn’t rained recently. The trail itself is very scenic and beautiful, so even if the waterfall is reduced to a trickle there is still lots more to enjoy.

Directions

From Gatlinburg: Take Parkway to traffic light #8. Follow this road into the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Stay on the road until you reach the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail (closed in winter). Continue on the Motor Trail until you reach stop #15 at the end. Waterfall will be roadside.

GPS Coordinates

To the Waterfall:Lat: 35.710859 N Long: 85.3502 W

Potter’s Falls

Posted on June 23, 2023 Written by Leave a Comment

Nearby Areas: Debord Falls, Emory Gap Falls, Frozen Head State Park, Lower Potters Falls, Wartburg State: Tennessee Ease of Trail: Easy

Potter’s Falls is located on the Cumberland Plateau in Tennessee in Morgan County on Crooked Fork Creek, a tributary of Emory River. Potter’s Falls is a series of two waterfalls. Potter’s Falls is 18-feet tall and spans the width of Crooked Fork Creek.

Potter’s Falls is a semi locally known area that is located near Frozen Head State Park in Wartburg. To get to Potter’s Falls is fairly simple. Parking can be a bit tricky especially during the summer as it is a popular local swimming hole, as evidenced by the rope swing that you can swing from the top of the waterfall. There are only a couple of spaces at the trailhead and a few gravel pull off spaces along the side of the road. If you park in front of the trailhead, you’ll need to carefully back out, as it is by a turn with limited visibility of oncoming cars.

From the parking lot continue onto the trail directly in front of you. There are several small offshoot trails in this area that you can explore. Go about 100 feet from the parking lot and you will see a side trail that will take you to a view of Potter’s Falls. You can climb down some rocks to get to the base of the waterfall. There is a large pool of water at the base of that falls, which locals use for swimming.

This is an out-and-back trail, so you would return to the parking lot the way you came. However, before venturing back to the parking lot, return to the main trail and continue down the trail. In just a few minutes, you’ll see another side trail that will take you to Lower Potter’s Falls. Both trails are about 0.2 miles combined.

No restroom facilities or trash cans are available on site. While in the area I would recommend visiting Frozen Head State Park and checking out Debord Falls (and Emory Gap Falls if it has rained recently).

Directions

GPS Coordinates

To the Waterfall:N 36° 04.920, W 084° 34.584

Rockhouse Falls

Posted on May 29, 2019 Written by 2 Comments

Nearby Areas: Fall Creek Falls, Spencer State: Tennessee Ease of Trail: Easy, Moderate, Strenuous

Rockhouse Falls is located in Fall Creek Falls State Park. The really great thing about this waterfall is how close it is to many other waterfalls. Fall Creek Falls State Park has numerous waterfalls, including Fall Creek Falls, Cane Creek Falls, and Piney Creek Falls. Each of these waterfalls has a very easy way to view them with either short hikes or overlooks that are right by the parking areas.

Rockhouse Falls is an impressive 125 feet waterfall. It is right next to Cane Creek Falls, which gives you two waterfalls at the same location. This is always a win in my books!

There are three different ways you can use to view this waterfall. The first is a roadside overlook, which doesn’t give the greatest view, but everyone can see it this way. Follow the wheelchair accessible pathway to the overlook next to the Betty Dunn Nature Center. Rockhouse Falls can be viewed on your right hand side. (Cane Creek Falls is the main waterfall visible at this overlook and on your left.)

The second is from the Cable Trail, which will take you to the base. Go out the back of the nature center toward the overlook and follow the trail to the right. It runs parallel to the road. Go upward toward the road and you will see the official trail after you cross Rockhouse Creek. Look for the sign for Cable Trail and the cable that takes you to the waterfall base. The roundtrip for this trail is 0.3 miles. I would label this trail as strenuous as it is difficult to climb down the cable.

The third is the Gorge Trail, which you can access from the Woodland Trail. Get on the Woodland Trail and after you cross the swinging bridge, turn right at the first fork you come to (this is the Gorge Trail). This will bring you to an overlook for Rockhouse Falls and Cane Creek Falls after taking a short spur trail. This is an easy hike.

My kids and I visited during Spring Break, so the park was very busy. Be sure to come early to visit this waterfall or there will be a long wait to cross the swinging bridge.

Be sure to check out the other waterfalls this wonderful park has to offer as well as the beautiful lake. There are also many places to camp inside the park if you’d like to make a weekend of it.

Directions

Parking for this waterfall is at the Betty Dunn Nature Center located inside Fall Creek Falls State Park. The address for the nature center is 10821 Park Road, Pikeville, TN 37367.

GPS Coordinates

To the Waterfall:35° 39.795' N, 85° 20.976' W

Rocky Fork Falls

Posted on August 8, 2024 Written by Leave a Comment

Nearby Areas: State: Tennessee Ease of Trail: Easy, Roadside

Rocky Fork Falls is located inside Lamar Alexander Rocky Fork State Park in Unicoi County. Like many of the waterfalls in the Cherokee National Forest, Rocky Fork Falls is reached by a narrow one way road with pull-offs. This state park is relatively new, opening in May 2015. The park was changed in January 2019 from Rocky Fork State Park to Lamar Alexander Rocky Fork State Park.

While in Johnson City, I decided to check out this small, but pretty waterfall. Since it had rained a lot for several days leading up to our adventure, there was plenty of water flow. We passed several smaller cascades that ran alongside the road while heading to Rocky Fork Falls.

There are several pull-offs close to the waterfall so you can park and walk to the waterfall. We parked by Blue Hole and walked back to Rocky Fork Falls. Both are located on the right side of the road and can be viewed from the road, although the view from the bottom of the steps to Blue Hole is much better.

Ruby Falls

Posted on July 20, 2016 Written by 4 Comments

Nearby Areas: Chattanooga, Lookout Mountain State: Tennessee Ease of Trail: Easy

This waterfall and caverns, located over 1,120 feet underground, is one of my all time favorites. It’s so unique and beautiful. Although it does cost to get in, it is worth every penny.

Ruby Falls was discovered over 1,120 feet below the surface of Lookout Mountain in Chattanooga, TN in 1928 by Leo Lambert and a team of excavators. He named the falls after his wife, Ruby.

You enter the cavern and are guided through incredible rock formations. Some of the rock formations are lit in different colors, which I’ve not seen done in other caverns before. The caverns are simply breathtaking and that’s not even the best part!

The path ends at Ruby Falls itself – a 145 foot underground waterfall. It is America’s deepest commercial cave and largest underground waterfall. Ruby Falls is lit by full color LED lights that change colors making this impressive waterfall truly spectacular and one of a kind!

A word to the wise, bring a jacket with you, even in the summer if you plan to visit. The cavern is a cool sixty degrees year round. While in the area, I would also recommend the nearby Rock City, which has its own waterfall – Lover’s Leap.

Directions

Address for Ruby Falls: 1720 South Scenic Hwy, Chattanooga, TN 37409

GPS Coordinates

To the Trailhead:35.021819, -85.341906

Rutledge Falls

Posted on November 21, 2024 Written by Leave a Comment

Nearby Areas: State: Tennessee Ease of Trail: Easy

Rutledge Falls is a privately owned waterfall located in Tullahoma. The owners graciously let visitors hike to the waterfall. They have placed a sign at the beginning of the trail with rules for visiting the waterfall. The 40 foot waterfall was featured in “Hannah Montana: The Movie.”

Parking for the waterfall is right near the trail entrance across the road from Rutledge Falls Baptist Church (1289 Rutledge Falls Rd, Tullahoma, TN 37388). Cars are only permitted in the designated area. After parking our car we headed to the trailhead and read the sign. There is a fence right alongside the parking area. Follow the fence to the beginning of the trail. There is a sign at the beginning of the trail with the waterfall rules listed: stay on the trail, no littering, hike at your own risk and not to remove anything from the area. The trail is open year-round and is open from dawn to dusk. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash.

Depending on which path you take to the waterfall it is between a 0.3-0.5 mile hike round trip with an elevation gain of 22 feet. The trail to the overlook of the waterfall is easy. You just stay on the main trail and it leads to an overlook of the waterfall. If you want to get to the base of the waterfall you’ll need to climb down and over a few rocks. This is a little difficult. My teenager had no problems getting down to the base, but my youngest was unable to go down.

There is an easier trail if you want to go to the base of the waterfall. There is a small trail that branches off to the left (heading toward the home before you reach the statue) for a gradual hike down to the riverbed. From there you can easily walk back upstream to the bottom of the falls.

The base of Rutledge Falls is a good swimming hole with clear water, however it is very cold. If you want to go into the water I’d recommend bringing water shoes because the area around the water can be sharp and slippery.

Just above the waterfall is the “Lady of the Falls” statue, which originally resided at the state capital grounds. During a renovation it was removed and scheduled for destruction. Permission was given to save one of the statues and placed at the top of Rutledge Falls where it stands just above the waterfall.

We visited on a weekday shortly after breakfast and had the waterfall to ourselves. This waterfall is popular and gets very busy, especially on hot summer days or the weekend so try to visit on a weekday or first thing in the morning if you want to avoid the crowds.

Rutledge Falls has no restroom or picnic facilities, as it is on private property. Camping is not permitted at Rutledge Falls.

While in the area, be sure to continue down the road to the Short Springs State Natural Area and check out Machine Falls.

Savage Falls

Posted on July 21, 2023 Written by Leave a Comment

Nearby Areas: Beersheeba Springs, Greeter Falls, Lower Greeter Falls, Palmer, Stone Door State: Tennessee Ease of Trail: Easy, Moderate

Savage Falls is located in Savage Gulf East inside South Cumberland State Park. This waterfall looks best after a good rain or during the spring. I would rate the trail an easy to moderate depending on age and hiking abilities.

The trail begins at the ranger station. Following the abandoned railway route of the “Dinky Line”, the trail heads north into the woods. Crossing a suspension bridge over Boyd Branch, the trail continues for a mile through the forest to the loop junction where the actual loop begins. Keep following the signs pointing toward Savage Falls.

Continue on the South Rim Trail until you reach another junction with a sign. There is a side trail that will lead you to the Savage Falls Overlook. We continued going straight and reached the top of Savage Falls.

It was getting ready to rain so we returned to the ranger station the way we came. The trail included three flat wooden bridges and two suspension bridges for crossings.

This is a popular trail and gets busy, however there is tons of parking available. There are picnic tables located in front of the ranger station in the parking area. Restrooms are available at the ranger station. They are open even when the station is closed. The trail closes at sunset.

While in the area, I would recommend Greeter Falls, Lower Greeter Falls and Broadtree Falls. All three are located on the same trail. These are some of my favorites in the Savage Gulf area and I preferred them to Savage Falls.

Savage Falls as viewed from the top of the falls.

Directions

Savage Gulf East (Savage Gulf Ranger Station) Address: 3157 SR 399, Palmer, TN 37365

GPS Coordinates

To the Trailhead:N 35°26.05, W 85°32.38

Sill Branch Falls

Posted on June 27, 2020 Written by Leave a Comment

Nearby Areas: Erwin, Pine Ridge Falls State: Tennessee Ease of Trail: Easy, Moderate

Sill Branch Falls is located in the Clark’s Creek area of the Cherokee National Forest. The parking area is opposite of the trailhead. The trailhead has a signpost and is blazed with blue triangles (going toward the waterfall) or rectangles (returning to the parking area).

This beautiful 20 foot waterfall starts out with a fairly easy hike with just a tiny incline over slightly rocky terrain with a few roots along the way. It gets a little muddy in a few parts after a good rain, but the mud only goes a tiny bit up on your shoes. Most of the time you can dodge the mud along the sides of the trail.

When the trail forks, make sure you go to the left and you’ll immediately cross a small stream. You’ll see a steep incline on the other side of the stream. There are several places off to the side that go down to the creek, so make sure you don’t turn off too early. Continue up this steep section of the trail and you’ll soon arrive at the waterfall.

You’ll return the way you came to get back to your car. Returning is much easier.

This waterfall is best viewed after a good rain and in the Spring. Also to avoid crowds, earlier in the morning is best. For the best photos I would recommend a cloudy day, as you can see the sun shining in on the photo below and that was taken on a semi-cloudy day with a polarizing filter.

I would rate this waterfall as an easy/moderate since you do have all the rocks and roots to navigate and the one really steep incline.

While in the area, be sure to visit Pine Ridge Falls located 0.2 miles down the road from the parking area to Sill Branch Falls. Look for the entrance to Longarm Branch Trail to make sure you’re in the right place.

Directions

From Greeneville, take Hwy 107 east for approximately 15 miles. Turn right onto Clark's Creek Road. Drive approximately 3 miles and the trailhead will be on left, about half of this is on a rough road with potholes so drive carefully. The parking area will be on the right.

GPS Coordinates

To the Trailhead:N 36° 7.812', W 082° 32.156' (parking area)

To the Waterfall:36° 7.473' N, 82° 31.630' W

Steele Creek Park Falls/Rooster Front Park Falls

Posted on March 16, 2022 Written by Leave a Comment

Nearby Areas: Backyard Terrors Dinosaur Park, Bristol, Bristol Motor Speedway State: Tennessee Ease of Trail: Easy

As far as I can tell there is no “official” name for this waterfall. I’ve seen it called Steele Creek Park Falls or Rooster Front Falls, so I have listed both. This waterfall is located inside Rooster Front Park, which is actually part of Steele Creek Park.

Getting to this waterfall is really easy. Park in the parking area for Rooster Front Park, which is across the street from the parking area for Charlie Robinette Park. You will have a pavilion right in front of the parking area with some courts off to the right.

You’ll come to a sign by a bridge. If you go left crossing over the bridge you will be on the Lake Ridge Trail. Don’t cross this bridge continue on the Lakeside Trail. A short distance away you will come to a second bridge on your left. Cross at this bridge. Shortly after you will pass the wetlands on your left. Continue on the trail for another 0.15 miles and you will come to a bridge by the waterfall.

After viewing the waterfall you can continue on to Mill Creek and the trailhead or you can turn around and return the way you came to your car.

While in the area be sure to enjoy the rest of Rooster Front Park and Steele Creek Park. There’s many things to do in these parks including longer hikes, a nature center, splash pad, the Steele Creek Express, disc golf, playgrounds and paddle boat rentals.

Also if anyone in your family is a dinosaur fan you should check out Backyard Terrors Dinosaur Park located 20 minutes away in Bluff City. This is a favorite in our family that features life-size dinosaurs.

Directions

In Bristol, TN - Head north on Volunteer parkway approximately 3.7 miles. Turn left onto Vance Drive. The Rooster Front Park parking lot will be on your left in approximately 7/10 of a mile.

Step Falls (Old Stone Fort State Archaeological Park)

Posted on August 21, 2023 Written by Leave a Comment

Nearby Areas: Chattanooga, Manchester, Old Stone Fort State Archaeological Park State: Tennessee Ease of Trail: Easy

Step Falls is a series of smaller waterfalls that are all part of the same waterfalls. If you’re looking for a waterfall that is easy to get close to inside the Old Stone Fort State Archaeological Park, we felt this was the easiest one.

Old Stone Fort State Archaeological Park contains three impressive waterfalls and a dam, which is great if you are like us and love finding areas where you can view many waterfalls in one location.

Once at the visitor center, you will start down the trail that goes around the side and behind the center. You will want to take the left fork where it splits. This trail will lead you along the river. You can see the river soon after the fork, and follow it around.

There are a couple of places where the main trail will take you to a side trail that is lower. You will want to take one of these to see the fall better. We found two different places where we could cross to the lower trail. Both had advantages and disadvantages for crossing. Take the one you feel more comfortable with, as it may be steep and/or uneven in parts.

Follow the lower trail in the same direction you were heading until you hear the waterfall. You can see the waterfall from the trail, or you can follow some side trails further down to the river. While we were there, we saw several people swimming and jumping into the wading pool below the falls.

While the main trail is technically a loop, if all you want to do is see waterfalls, it is faster to return to the visitor center fork and go to the other side to view the other waterfalls located inside the park.

Directions

The Sinks

Posted on January 25, 2016 Written by 1 Comment

Nearby Areas: Gatlinburg, Smoky Mountains, Townsend State: Tennessee Ease of Trail: Easy

The Sinks is a pretty waterfall that is very easy to access. It is a small waterfall that includes the entire flow of Little River. You can walk right up to a close-up overlook to the waterfall right from the parking lot.

Swimming near The Sinks can be dangerous and is not recommended by the Park. Take extreme caution around the gorge walls, and do not attempt cliff diving, as water levels vary and you cannot tell how deep it is. While it is possible to reach the waterfall itself, doing so is strongly discouraged as several deaths have resulted from people attempting this.

There is a trail you access to take you to Upper Meigs Falls, which I have not personally tried yet (on my list of things to do) at The Sinks. It is a 3 mile round trip moderate/strenuous hike on the Meigs Creek Trail. This trail requires you to cross the creek several times. So if you have extra time and are looking for more of a challenge, you may want to check out Upper Meigs Falls while you are there.

Directions

The Parking Area for The Sinks is located on Little River Road, 12 miles west of the Sugarlands Visitor Center and 8 miles east of Townsend. Look for sign post #5.

GPS Coordinates

To the Waterfall:N35 40.149, W83 39.728

Upper Waterloo Falls

Posted on April 9, 2019 Written by Leave a Comment

Nearby Areas: City Lake Area, Cookeville, Waterloo Falls State: Tennessee Ease of Trail: Easy

Upper Waterloo Falls is a 5 foot waterfall located about 15 minutes north of Cookeville. While 5 feet in height seems really small, this waterfall is probably one the widest I’ve ever seen. It isn’t the most impressive waterfall, but it is quite pretty and peaceful. There are also “angel wing” shells at the end of the path leading to the waterfall which my kids enjoyed finding.

The trail to Upper Waterloo Falls is short and easy. There’s a parking area right by the trail. Waterloo Falls and Upper Waterloo Falls also are great places to swim.

One really great thing about this waterfall is that you get two family friendly waterfalls for a minimal amount of effort. Waterloo Falls, a 35 foot waterfall, shares the same parking area.

There’s also restroom facilities and picnic areas at Waterloo Falls. You can also stay at Waterloo Falls. Accommodations range from the luxury suite or camping by the river in a tent up in the trees. This is also a popular event venue, so during the days of events Waterloo Falls is closed to outside visitors. Check the link below for availability.

Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash.

If you want to go to visit Waterloo Falls you’ll need to purchase a pass. Cost is $6 per individual or you can get a carpool pass for $24 which covers 4 or more. You can purchase passes at https://waterloovenueandevents.com/river-access/. Parking is only in designated areas. Parking on the shoulder of the road is prohibited. The address to the base of Waterloo Falls is 145 Virgil Murphy Circle, Cookeville, TN 38506.

Directions

Head north out of Cookeville on Highway 136. About 10 miles out of town the highway will split into two roads - Waterloo Rd and Hilham Rd. Follow Waterloo Road. Turn left onto Virgil Murphy Circle. Park in designated parking area.

Waterloo Falls

Posted on April 4, 2019 Written by Leave a Comment

Nearby Areas: City Lake Natural Area, Cookeville State: Tennessee Ease of Trail: Easy

Waterloo Falls is a 35 foot waterfall located about 15 minutes north of Cookeville. Waterloo Falls and Upper Waterloo Falls also are great places to swim, so if you’re looking for swimming hole, here’s one for you.

Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash.

One really great thing about this waterfall is that you get two family friendly waterfalls for a minimal amount of effort. Upper Waterloo Falls, while only 5 feet tall, is very wide and quite pretty.

There’s restroom facilities and picnic areas at Waterloo Falls. You can also stay at Waterloo Falls. Accommodations range from the luxury suite or camping by the river in a tent up in the trees. This is also a popular event venue, so during the days of events Waterloo Falls is closed to outside visitors. Check the link below for availability.

Waterloo Falls is on private property, so if you want to go to visit Waterloo Falls you’ll need to purchase a pass. Cost is $6 per individual or you can get a carpool pass for $24 which covers 4 or more. You can purchase passes at https://waterloovenueandevents.com/river-access/. Parking is only in designated areas. Parking on the shoulder of the road is prohibited. The address to the base of Waterloo Falls is 145 Virgil Murphy Circle, Cookeville, TN 38506.

Waterloo Falls as viewed from the upper viewing area.

Directions

GPS Coordinates

To the Waterfall:36.3027, -85.4673

Wetumpka Falls (also known as Shipman’s Creek Falls or Moonshine Falls)

Posted on November 10, 2024 Written by Leave a Comment

Nearby Areas: State: Tennessee Ease of Trail: Easy, Roadside

Wetumpka Falls is a multi-tiered 20 foot waterfall that is located roadside near the city of Tullahoma. Wetumpka Falls is technically located in Wartrace, but is just minutes from Tullahoma. While in the area visiting Rutledge Falls and Machine Falls I decided to add this wet weather waterfall since it had rained recently.

Although it had rained recently the water flow was still pretty low. I’m guessing that Spring would probably have better water flow. However the best time might be in the Winter after it has snowed and the snow melts so that the water flow would be good and there might not be as many leaves to block the view of the waterfall.

Drive past it and you’ll come to a small paved pull-off which can hold 3 or 4 cars. After you park you can walk back to view the waterfall from the road.

The waterfall has two sections. The smaller, tiered upper section is a five feet tall, which flows into the main waterfall and plunges 15 feet into a tiny slot canyon. Some people include the lower tiers as part of the waterfall and classify it as 40 feet tall.

This waterfall has also been referred to as Shipman’s Creek Falls due to its location on Shipman’s Creek. Some people have also called the waterfall Moonshine Falls since there used to be a moonshine still by the upper part several decades ago.

After viewing Wetumpka Falls you can continue walking down the road and can view Ledford Mill Falls from the roadside as well. After viewing these two waterfalls I’d recommend visiting Rutledge Falls and Machine Falls, which are only a short distance away and are well worth visiting. These four waterfalls make a great family day trip.

Directions

If you are heading from Tullahoma, go northwest on US 41A. As you leave town, look for Ledford's Mill Road on your left. Turn left onto Ledford Mill Road and drive about three miles. When Ledford Mill Road veers left, continue straight onto Shipman Creek Road. Continue down the road a little way. You'll soon see Ledford Mill on your right. Keep driving past the mill and a very short distance away you'll see Wetumpka Falls on your left side. Drive past it and you'll come to a small paved pull-off which can hold 3 or 4 cars.

Wildcat Falls (TN)

Posted on January 29, 2021 Written by Leave a Comment

Nearby Areas: Burgess Falls, Sparta State: Tennessee Ease of Trail: Roadside

Wildcat Falls is a roadside waterfall in Sparta, TN. It is roadside and not very far from Burgess Falls. This is what I call a hit or miss waterfall. Sometimes the waterfall is pretty and sometimes it is a trickle.

Unfortunately when we visited, it was a trickle, hence my low rating. I have seen pictures of this waterfall after a really good rain and it looks very nice, so my recommendation is to visit immediately after a good rainfall for the best results.

Since it is close to Burgess Falls, it is worth checking out. If it was dried up like when we visited, you may want to continue down the road to Sunset Rock.

Directions

From Burgess Falls: Go southeast on Burgess Falls Drive toward TN-135 N for about 7 miles. Turn right onto TN-136 S and continue for a little over 4 miles. Turn left onto US-70E. Wildcat Falls will be on your right. There is a small pull off right in front of the waterfall. If you pass the waterfall, you can turn around at an overlook on the opposite side of the road a short way down.

There were 53 waterfalls for Tennessee.

Easy Waterfalls for Virginia

Alvarado Road Falls

Posted on October 24, 2020 Written by Leave a Comment

Nearby Areas: Backbone Falls, Backbone Rock, Damascus, Mock's Mill Falls, Virginia Creeper Trail State: Virginia Ease of Trail: Roadside

Alvarado Road Falls, while not impressive enough for a trip on its own, is fairly close to several other waterfalls and is located in a scenic area, however it is worth a visit if you are in the area. This waterfall is not widely known so you most likely will have it all to yourself.

This waterfall is not the easiest to photograph. You’ll want to visit either early in the morning or at dusk for the best photographic results. We unfortunately visited during the middle of the day.

Just 15 minutes away is the beautiful Backbone Falls and Backbone Rock just across the Tennessee border. In 1901, a tunnel was drilled through the rock to allow railroad access between Shady Valley and Damascus creating Backbone Rock, “The Shortest Tunnel in the World”. There’s lots of hiking opportunities in this area as well as a lake to picnic at. The Virginia Creeper Trail is nearby as well as a train exhibit in the parking area for the Creeper Trail in Damascus. And don’t forget to visit Mock’s Mill Falls in Damascus while you are there.

We also drove along the nearby US-58 to check out the sights as we visited in fall and the leaves were at peak, so we were treated with a beautiful array of color.

Directions

From Abingdon, VA, take US-58 east to SR-711. You'll see a sign that says "To 711." Turn right onto this road. Just past a bridge and the road becomes SR-711. Take this road for 0.6 miles to the waterfall. Watch your mileage as it is easy to pass the waterfall. Just before the waterfall there is a fork in the road. Go right downhill and the waterfall will be on the left side of the road. Parking is very limited. Just before the guardrail there is a small pulloff on the right. If this is full or you pass the pulloff, you can turn around and park on the waterfall side (however there's only room for one vehicle).

GPS Coordinates

To the Waterfall:36.6428 N, 81.8472 W

Big Falls (inside Pinnacle Natural Area Preserve)

Posted on March 21, 2021 Written by Leave a Comment

Nearby Areas: Abingdon, Lebanon, Pinnacle Natural Area Preserve, Spring Falls State: Virginia Ease of Trail: Easy

While only 12 feet high, Big Falls remains impressive due to its width. It spreads from bank-to-bank cascading over sandstone steps. Big Falls is located inside the Pinnacle Natural Area Preserve.

From the good sized parking lot, you will start your hike by walking up steps and crossing a suspension bridge. It swings pretty easily, especially if you have kids with you.

Upon crossing you will be on the Big Cedar Creek Trail, which starts out pretty narrow, but widens to become a large gravel covered trail. The trail takes you alongside Big Cedar Creek almost the entire way. Please note that after prolonged heavy rains the trail can flood at the beginning, as had occurred on our trip. However, we were able to climb alongside the trail and still pass.

At 0.4 miles the Big Cedar Creek Trail intersects with the Grapevine Hill Trail on your left. Continue straight on the wide blue-blazed trail continuing alongside the creek.

In another half-mile, you’ll see a second trail junction with a large preserve map sign. There is also a post behind it with the trail names and blaze colors with the distance to each trail from this point. Up ahead you will see pit toilets and a picnic shelter. However, you will want to turn left at the junction and head uphill to continue on the Big Cedar Creek Trail that will lead you to Big Falls.

The creek becomes more dramatic in this section leading you to the center of the preserve and Big Falls. A small side trail will take you down a few yards to the base of the falls.

We chose to turn around at this point to head back to Spring Falls (also located in Pinnacle Natural Area Preserve), but the Pinnacle View Trail (the namesake of the preserve) is just a little bit further down the trail. To view the Pinnacle, continue down the Big Cedar Creek Trail to another trail junction at approximately1.4 miles. The main trail heads to the left here, while the Pinnacle View Trail forks off to the right.

If you wish to complete your hike without viewing the Pinnacle, simply return the way you came on the Big Cedar Creek Trail.

To view Spring Falls after viewing Big Falls, head back the way you came until you get to the trail junction. Turn right to return to the parking lot or turn left to view Spring Falls, which is located just behind the picnic shelter. Follow the green blazed trail to Spring Falls, which is an easy 0.25 mile hike.

Big Falls located in Pinnacle Natural Area Preserve

Directions

From I-81 in Abingdon, take Alt 58 West to U.S. Route 19 North. Go about 20 miles and get off at the Business 19 exit into Lebanon. Turn left. At the second light, turn left onto Route 82 West. Go 1.1 miles to Route 640 (River Mountain Road) and turn right. Go 4.2 miles and turn left on Route 721 (gravel road). Go 0.8 mile to the parking area on the left.

GPS Coordinates

To the Trailhead:36.95356, -82.05475

Falling Springs Falls

Posted on October 13, 2020 Written by Leave a Comment

Nearby Areas: Covington, Humpback Rock, Roanoke State: Virginia Ease of Trail: Easy, Roadside

Falling Spring Falls, a beautiful 80 foot waterfall, located in the Alleghany Highlands. The waterfall is located just five miles north of Covington, Virginia on Route 220 is one of the largest waterfalls in Virginia. There is a parking area just to the side of the road that holds quite a few cars, however it does fill up and you may have to pass and come back to wait for a parking space.

The observation platform is just off to the side of the parking area a short distance away on a paved path. It gives you a great vantage point to see this scenic waterfall. There are also picnic tables nearby.

There used to be a trail leading to the base of the waterfall, however all trails leading down to the waterfall have been closed off and there are signs reading “Stop No Trespassing Beyond This Point. Fast Moving Waters and Steep Drop Offs. Violators Subject To Fine.”

Thomas Jefferson once described Falling Spring Falls as a “remarkable cascade…falling over a rock about 200 feet to the valley below.”

While in the area, be sure to check out Humpback Bridge in Covington, Virginia’s oldest covered bridge, built in 1857. It is one of a few remaining covered bridges in the United States features the unique “humpback style with it being built higher in the middle than on either of the ends.

Directions

From Roanoke: Driving North on I-81, take Exit 150B for Troutville/Fincastle. At the traffic circle, take the first exit onto US-11/US 220. Continue for 34 miles on US 220. At the fork on US 220, keep right and follow the signs for US-60/US-220 N/Covington/Lexington. Merge onto US-60 E/US 220 S. Turn left onto the I-64 W/ US 60 W ramp toward Covington. After 10 miles, take the 16A exit for US-60 W/US 220 N toward Covington/Hot Springs. Go left at the fork to continue toward US-60 W/US Hwy 220 N. After 9.3 miles on US 220 N, parking for Falling Spring Falls will be on the left.

GPS Coordinates

To the Waterfall:37.86762, -79.94783

Mock’s Mill Falls

Posted on October 18, 2020 Written by Leave a Comment

Nearby Areas: Abingdon, Alvarado Road Falls, Backbone Falls, Backbone Rock, Damascus, Virginia Creeper Trail State: Virginia Ease of Trail: Roadside

Mock’s Mill Falls is a man-made waterfall less than 15 feet in height by very wide. What this waterfall lacks in height, it makes up for in its beautiful backdrop and ease of viewing.

Mock’s Mill Falls was named after Henry A. Mock who created the waterfall in the early 1800s to power a grist mill for grinding grain into flour. The town it is located in was originally called Mock’s Mill, which has since been changed to Damascus.

Mock’s Mill remained in operation well into the 20th century. Once the mill closed the waterwheel was removed and the building has been renovated into the Damascus Old Mill Inn hotel and restaurant. You can park in a parking area behind the hotel and walk toward the hotel from the parking area. You’ll see the waterfall just below the hotel directly behind it.

Just 8 minutes away is the beautiful Backbone Falls and Backbone Rock just across the Tennessee border. In 1901, a tunnel was drilled through the rock to allow railroad access between Shady Valley and Damascus creating Backbone Rock, “The Shortest Tunnel in the World”. There’s lots of hiking opportunities in this area as well as a lake to picnic at. The Virginia Creeper Trail is nearby as well as a train exhibit in the parking area for the Creeper Trail in Damascus. And don’t forget to visit Alvarado Road Falls while you are there.

We also drove along the nearby US-58 to check out the sights as we visited in fall and the leaves were at peak, so we were treated with a beautiful array of color.

Directions

From Abingdon: Drive along US-58 East until you reach Damascus. After you cross the bridge, take the first road on your left. Go about a block and you'll dead end into the Damascus Old Mill Inn hotel and restaurant. Waterfall parking is available behind the hotel/restaurant.

GPS Coordinates

To the Waterfall:36° 38.200' N, 81° 47.400' W

Spring Falls (inside Pinnacle Natural Area Preserve)

Posted on March 23, 2021 Written by Leave a Comment

Nearby Areas: Abingdon, Big Falls, Lebanon, Pinnacle Natural Area State: Virginia Ease of Trail: Easy

Spring Falls is located inside the Pinnacle Natural Area Preserve. If you are looking for a longer family friendly hike on an easy trail, then this waterfall is for you.

From the good sized parking lot, you will start your hike by walking up steps and crossing a suspension bridge. It swings pretty easily, especially if you have kids with you.

At 0.4 miles the Big Cedar Creek Trail intersects with the Grapevine Hill Trail on your left. Continue straight on the wide blue-blazed trail continuing alongside the creek.

Continue straight ahead on the trail until the trail dead ends at the picnic shelter. Just behind the picnic shelter with a post marking the trailhead with a green sign for Spring Falls Trail.

Follow the green blazed trail to Spring Falls, which is an easy 0.25 mile hike that winds through a wooded area next to the creek. It is almost entirely flat the whole way except a few stone steps toward the end that take you to the waterfall. You’ll emerge just next to the top/side of Spring Falls.

After viewing the waterfall, you return the way you came to exit the park.

However, before you leave you may want to visit Big Falls (an impressive waterfall that spans the entire width of the large creek) and the Pinnacle (the preserve’s namesake), which are only located a short distance away. To view Big Falls, return to the junction with the reserve sign just past the restrooms. Turn right on Big Cedar Creek Trail. Continue following the trail until you reach a small side trail taking you to the base of Big Falls. To view the Pinnacle, continue down the Big Cedar Creek Trail to another trail junction at approximately 1.4 miles. The main trail heads to the left here, while the Pinnacle View Trail forks off to the right. After viewing the Pinnacle return the way you came on Big Cedar Creek trail. At the junction with the preserve sign, turn right to exit the park.

Directions

Tank Hollow Falls

Posted on May 20, 2021 Written by Leave a Comment

Nearby Areas: Castlewood, Cleveland, Cleveland Barrens Natural Area Preserve State: Virginia Ease of Trail: Easy, Roadside

Tank Hollow Falls, a beautiful 60 foot waterfall, is located inside the Cleveland Barrens Natural Area Preserve. This waterfall is perfect for the whole family. The parking area is only about 100 feet from the base of the waterfall. There is only about 5 parking spaces and one handicapped space. From the parking area follow the short gravel path to the base of the waterfall. Two picnic tables are available if you’d like to have a picnic lunch by the waterfall.

There are also several trails that start right next to the waterfall. Consult the trail sign near the parking lot for trail lengths and other information.

While in the area be sure to check out Big Falls and Spring Falls located in Pinnacle Natural Area Preserve, located about 20 minutes away. We did Tank Hollow and these two waterfalls in the same day. It made for a great day of hiking for the family.

Directions

Address: 200 Tank Hollow Rd., Cleveland, VA, 24225 From Cleveland St, turn SW to 4th Street then left to Tank Hollow Road. Drive downhill to the parking area in front of the Falls. There is a short gravel trail to the Falls.

GPS Coordinates

To the Waterfall:36.9401073°, -82.1543013°

Wigwam Falls

Posted on January 21, 2016 Written by 4 Comments

Nearby Areas: Blue Ridge Parkway State: Virginia Ease of Trail: Easy

Wigwam Falls is a pretty waterfall that is really easy to access. It is located on the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Park in the Yankee Horse Ridge parking lot (milepost 34.4). Take the stairs on the right side of the parking lot and turn right on the railroad tracks. On your left there is a trail and the waterfall is only 500 feet up the trail, about a two-minute walk.

The railroad exhibit is a reconstruction of a short section of narrow-gauge railroad bed (the Irish Creek Railway), however the railroad did actually travel along this exact path back in the 1900s.

This waterfall is not noted in the parking area for Yankee Horse Ridge, so it is not very busy. The trail is short, scenic, and easy to find and follow.

Directions

Traveling on the Blue Ridge Parkway, drive to mile post 34.4 and park in the Yankee Horse Ridge parking lot.

There were 7 waterfalls for Virginia.

Easy Waterfalls for West Virginia

There were 0 waterfalls for West Virginia.

Easy Waterfalls for Kentucky

Amos Falls

Posted on June 4, 2024 Written by Leave a Comment

Nearby Areas: Cumberland Falls, Daniel Boone National Forest, Dog Slaughter Falls, Eagle Falls, Princess Falls, Rockholds, Whitley County, Yahoo Falls State: Kentucky Ease of Trail: Easy, Moderate

While Amos Falls isn’t the biggest waterfall, it has a lot going for it. Located in the Daniel Boone National Forest, this 16 foot tall, 14 feet wide, is very picturesque. The background behind the waterfall is interesting and almost looks like it’s lit up with colored lights in the photos we took. In fact, when we first saw photos of it, with thought it was an interesting light reflection, but it’s actually the color of the ground and side walls.

Driving to the Fall Parking Area

This waterfall is not the easiest to locate or to get to, so if you do visit, you most likely won’t encounter very many other people along the way. The GPS gets a little confused when going to Amos Falls. We put in coordinates 36.82615° N, 84.25808° to the parking area when we visited. When you get to Ova Lane, the paved road will continue to the right. You’ll need to take the gravel road that keeps going straight.

This road is not maintained and I wouldn’t recommend driving it in a vehicle with low clearance. Not only was it rough, there were many pot holes that could swallow a small child. My husband drove slowly navigating around them, as there was water in several so we couldn’t tell how deep they actually were.

The Trail to the Waterfall

The trailhead is not marked by signs, so you will need to look for it. It is located on the left side of the road about 1 mile from where the gravel begins. As you approach the 1 mile point, look for a parking area on the shoulder of the road near a large tree that sometimes has caution tape tied to the trunk of the tree. When we were there, there was no caution tape, so someone might want to go back and add some. We didn’t bring any, not knowing it needed to be remarked.

I would recommend a hiking stick, especially if hiking this trail after a good rain. We forgot ours, but we were fortunate that The Shadow Hiker left a walking stick at the trailhead. (Thank you kind person, this really helped, especially in the wet conditions.)

This wet season waterfall almost completely dries up in the Summer, so we visited in the Spring to ensure good water flow. However, with good water flow comes slippery trail conditions. This trail is extremely slippery after a lot of rain (and it had rained almost all week before we got there), especially since it not only has slopes that go up and down but also the trail itself seems to tilt from side to side in some sections. The nice thing is, for most of the trail, it didn’t have a lot of elevation change from section to section, so it doesn’t require a skilled hiker to navigate to.

I would strongly recommend hiking this in jeans, or something with a strong pants material. We found several thorny bushes and vines along the trail, and knew it would be rough on our legs if they were not properly protected.

The trail is very easy to follow and is marked by hanging markers/streamers along the way. It gets very narrow in parts. The trail winds around and takes you to the base of the waterfall. Right before you get to the base, you’ll hike downward, which can be slippery after a good rain. Take it slow and steady, and you will be fine though.

The Waterfall Itself

The waterfall has an interesting composition spilling over a ledge into a pool. There’s forest above the ledge and around the sides it’s almost cave-like. The sides of the waterfall have interesting streaks on the wall.

You can walk around closer to the waterfall on the right-hand side, but be careful. It is extremely slippery if it is wet or muddy.

We had the waterfall all to ourselves, so we were able to look around and explore a little. The pool of water at the base of the waterfall was fairly shallow, and it wasn’t very clean, so this isn’t the best place to swim. However, it was very peaceful.

Once you’ve enjoyed the waterfall, return to the parking area the way you came. It was a little bit challenging climbing uphill to return to the parking area on the slippery trail, but totally doable.

When we arrived back at the beginning of the trail, we returned the hiking stick for someone else to use.

Things to bring when hiking to Amos Falls – hiking pole, extra pair of socks (if wet conditions), something to wipe off your shoes or a change of shoes (if wet conditions), and water.

There are many waterfalls in the area. So while in the area, be sure to visit Cumberland Falls, Eagle Falls, Dog Slaughter Falls, Yahoo Falls, and Princess Falls.

Directions

We put in coordinates 36.82615° N, 84.25808° to the parking area when we visited. When you get to Ova Lane the paved road will continue to the right, you'll need to take the gravel road that keeps going straight. The trailhead is not marked by signs. It is located on the left side of the road about 1 mile from where the gravel begins. There will be a parking area on the shoulder of the road near a large tree that sometimes has caution tape tied to the trunk of the tree.

GPS Coordinates

To the Trailhead:36.82615° N, 84.25808° W

To the Waterfall:36.8242889785, -84.2597769541

Cumberland Falls

Posted on August 20, 2017 Written by 7 Comments

Nearby Areas: Corbin, Daniel Boone National Forest State: Kentucky Ease of Trail: Easy, Wheelchair Accessible

Cumberland Falls was the first waterfall I visited in Kentucky and what a find! There are several overlooks to view this impressive 125 feet wide, 68 feet high waterfall. Cumberland Falls is also known as the Little Niagara, Niagara of the South or Great Falls and is located inside the Daniel Boone National Forest.

Cumberland Falls is also known for its incredible moonbow. During a full moon on clear nights, you can see a rare lunar rainbow, or moonbow formed by the mist from the waterfall. Dates and times for the moonbow are listed on the Cumberland Falls website. Click here to see the dates.

There are several overlooks that you can access to view Cumberland Falls. The first one you will come to will be after you park in the parking lot and walk past the gift shop, snack stand and restrooms. This overlook will be on your left hand side and is directly above Cumberland Falls. This overlook was under renovation when I last visited in July 2017. Keep walking and you will come to a place where two trails split off. Both of these main trails are paved.

Off to your right is the handicapped accessible trail which will take you to an overlook of Cumberland Falls. To your left you will descend down steps (about 30) to the second trail which leads to multiple overlooks. The first overlook you arrive at will require you to go down more steps (about 30-40 depending on if you stop at the first overlook or go down to the second). There are rails for you to hold onto as you go down these steps. This is the closest overlook to the waterfall and the view is amazing. You are so close you will get some of the mist on you. Once you view the waterfall return to the main trail.

The next overlook on the trail to the left is just a short way down and the one after it is just about the same. These views allow you to see more of the surrounding area around the waterfall. These are still really great views so if you don’t want to do anymore stairs then use these two overlooks. From the last of these overlooks you can access the handicapped trail to return to the beginning of the trail if you don’t want to climb anymore steps. Please just make sure to give the right of way to wheelchairs, scooters and strollers. The trail is plenty wide for passing.

Cumberland Falls is part of a resort area, however you do not have to stay at the resort to view the beauty of Cumberland Falls. There is a lodge, woodland rooms, cottages and camping available if you choose to stay there and explore all their other trails and Eagle Falls.

Directions

Address for Cumberland Falls State Resort Park - 7351 Highway 90, Corbin, KY 40701. Cumberland Falls is 15 miles west of Corbin. From I-75 take US 25W to KY90. Follow the signs to Cumberland Falls Resort.

GPS Coordinates

To the Trailhead:N 36.83853, W -84.33849

Mill Springs Mill Falls & Cascades

Posted on July 4, 2024 Written by Leave a Comment

Nearby Areas: State: Kentucky Ease of Trail: Easy

*Part of Mill Springs Mill Falls as visible through the trees*

Mill Springs Mill Falls is located just below Mill Springs Mill. It has two distinctive, beautiful 30-foot drops into Lake Cumberland that emerge from springs above to create double cascades.

There are 13 springs that feed the mill, many of which are quite pretty. Most of the area around the mill is paved, but uneven, and winds around the mill and cascades.

In the Spring you’ll need to view Mill Springs Mill Falls from kayak or boat since you can’t get down into the water from a side trail by the restrooms. However part of it can be viewed from above through the trees. When the water is lower you can wade out into the water and see all of Mill Springs Mill Falls. If you decide to visit by boat, the mill has a boat dock.

The cascades are more impressive during the Spring or after a good rain. While I wasn’t able to view all of Mill Spring Mill Falls due to all of the recent rain, one of the cascades was running really well and was quite pretty.

About the Mill

You can stroll all round the mill on paved walkways. I went just before opening weekend of the season and had the place all to myself with the exception of the caretaker of the mill. He did mention that copperheads are common there and will strike without provocation so to keep an eye out for them. Luckily I had no encounters.

It was quite peaceful just walking around the quiet grounds and taking in all that nature has to offer. Once opening weekend kicks in the place has other things to offer including the fully operational mill itself, with a 40-foot overshot water wheel, the largest of its kind in the world.

Sitting on the shores of Lake Cumberland, first mill at Mill Springs was built in 1817. However, in 1824 the mill burned down due to a fire. The rebuilding and reconstruction was of the mill was completed in 1839.

On Jan. 19, 1862, the Battle of Mill Springs was fought. It was one of the first great battles of the Civil War.

In 1877, Lloyd Lanier and Arthur Rankin, purchased the mill and built present day 34 x 40 foot, three story mill. In 1908, the 28-foot cedar wheel was replaced by a steel water wheel. Thomas Roberts operated the mill under the name of the “Diamond Roller Mill” until 1949 when the federal government acquired the mill and lands as part of the Lake Cumberland project. That mill was later sold and the current mill, operated by the Army Corps of Engineers, was constructed.

In 1963 the Monticello Woman’s Club and other civic organizations, with assistance from the Kentucky Department of Highways, reactivated the mill.

In 1973 the mill was designated as a National Historic Site.

In 1976, a major restoration to the structure and grounds was completed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Traditional tools and skills were used to render the Mill as close to the original work as possible.

The mill is open from 9 am to 5 pm daily. This is an operating grist mill where you can watch the process of grinding the corn and making cornmeal. Then you can go up to the gift shop, operated by the Monticello Women’s Club, and purchase the cornmeal and take it home. The gift shop is open Sunday from 1 to 5 p.m.; Friday, Saturday and Monday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and Tuesday and Thursday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Corn is ground Saturdays, Sundays, and on the holidays at 2 pm. Using two 48-inch stones, or French burrs, imported from a quarry in northern France, the mill produces 800 pounds (up to 1,600 pounds of corn if both are running) an hour. It is a massive water wheel and quite impressive when it starts turning. The mill also offers tours.

Warning if Using Google Maps

Google Maps gave me major issues finding the mill when I typed in Mill Springs Mill, however when I entered the Brown-Lanier House. It took me right to the parking lot of the Brown-Lanier House, which is right next to the parking lot for the Mill Springs Mill.

The mill has ample parking and restroom facilities.

One of the waterfalls located at Mill Springs Mill — *One of the cascades located at Mill Springs Mill.*

Directions

Drive approximately 4 miles south of Somerset bypass on US 27. Turn right on 90 and go about 10 miles. Turn right on 1275 and go approximately 1 mile. You will see a historical marker on the right telling you that you have arrived at stop 9 on the driving tour. This is the parking lot for the Brown-Lanier House. Go just past this and you'll see the parking area for the mill on your right.

GPS Coordinates

To the Waterfall:36.934217, -84.77896200000001

There were 3 waterfalls for Kentucky.

Waterfall info:
Georgia: 4
South Carolina: 9
North Carolina: 37
Tennessee: 53
Virginia: 7
West Virginia: 0
Kentucky: 3

Total Count: 113