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.
I live in Kingsport and my family visits Bays Mountain all the time. We had never heard of this waterfall before. I’m looking forward to taking my kids and showing them something new the next time we go.
Thank you for the easy to follow directions otherwise we would never have found this waterfall. It’s not on the park map and no one seemed to know about it when we asked. We were the only ones at the waterfall. The trail is short and easy. There’s not a lot of water, but it’s still pretty to look at and very peaceful.
I see why you gave this waterfall a 2.5 stars. It doesn’t have a lot of water flowing. Still it was an easy hike and something different to see at this park besides animals.
Thanks for the tip. We were planning on visiting Bays Mountain with our out of town family this month and will be sure to look for this waterfall while we are there.