Certainly, chasing waterfalls in Tennessee is an adventure everyone should experience! During your visit to the Volunteer State, plan a day to explore these mesmerizing natural wonders.
There’s something about waterfalls that captures us. So, let’s journey across the state and discover some of Tennessee’s most beautiful waterfalls.
Whether you’re planning a relaxing outing or an exciting family day, you’ll find a waterfall that’s perfect for you.
Also, exploring these natural gems is a great way to enjoy Tennessee’s beauty. Ready to find your favorite waterfall? Let’s dive in!
Discover Tennessee’s Waterfalls: Your Next Adventure
Tennessee is home to hundreds of waterfalls, each with its own unique beauty. The tallest, Fall Creek Falls, plunges an impressive 256 feet. Have you ever seen an underground waterfall? Then check out Ruby Falls in Chattanooga for a stunning underground experience.
Plus, you can find many of these waterfalls in one of Tennessee’s 50 state parks and also across the state. These range from easy roadside views to short, simple hikes, and also some that take a little more work with more strenuous hikes.
So, let’s get ready to explore and, above all, find your favorite waterfall in Tennessee!
Additionally, it’s always smart to know the trail you’re going on before you start your hike. I like to use AllTrails, because you can download maps directly to your phone. Check HERE for trail information and maps.
Waterfalls in the Smoky Mountains
The Smoky Mountains are a fantastic place to chase waterfalls. Ramsey Cascades, the tallest waterfall in the Smokies, and Laurel Falls, one of the most popular, are must-sees.
These waterfalls originate from the Little Pigeon River, and also offer stunning views. When you visit, you’ll feel surrounded by nature’s beauty.
You’ll certainly find plenty of beautiful spots to explore during your stay in Tennessee!
Abrams Falls
Located in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Abrams Falls is certainly a beautiful waterfall worth visiting.
This stunning waterfall is 20 feet high but has a large volume of water cascading into a deep pool. It’s super close to Townsend, TN, and also about a 1-hour drive from Gatlinburg.
The trailhead is located on Cades Cove Loop Road, making it a great stop for a hike and lunch when exploring Cades Cove.
The trail takes you through the beautiful Smoky Mountains forest and along Abrams Creek, which will also provide you a scenic hike to the falls.
It’s perfect for a day hike when staying in one of the areas around the Smokies.
- Abrams Falls Trail: A moderate 5-mile round-trip hike.
- Additional info HERE!
Cataract Falls
Located in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Cataract Falls is a wonderful hike to enjoy with kids because the trail is relatively easy and short.
However, always be mindful and keep a close eye and hand on your little ones, as the Smokies have steep drops in some areas, along with slippery rocks and fast currents in the water.
The falls are beautiful, and it’s also a great hike for families.
- Cataract Falls Trail: An easy 1-mile round-trip hike.
- Additional info HERE!
Grotto Falls
Located in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Grotto Falls is a beautiful waterfall you shouldn’t miss.
Located on the Trillium Gap Trail, it’s unique because you can walk behind the falls, which also makes for a great photo spot.
Grotto Falls, which you can access from the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, is also a moderately difficult hike of about 3 miles round trip.
Since it’s a popular spot, start early to avoid crowds. Overall, Grotto Falls offers a fun and picturesque hike for everyone.
- Trail Length: 3 miles round trip
- Level: Moderate
- Additional info HERE!
Laurel Falls
Located in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Laurel Falls is one of the most popular waterfalls in the area. Also, it’s a must-see for visitors.
This beautiful 80-foot waterfall is easy to reach, which also makes it great for a day hike. You can easily get to the trailhead from Gatlinburg or Elkmont, but if you’re staying in Townsend, it will take a little longer to get there.
The trail to Laurel Falls is well-maintained and takes you through the stunning Smoky Mountains forest, which also offers great views.
- Laurel Falls Trail: A moderate 2.6-mile round-trip hike.
- Level: Moderate
- Additional Info HERE!
Meigs Falls
Located in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Meigs Falls is a hidden gem that’s easy to reach, which also makes it perfect for a quick stop.
This beautiful waterfall is about 13 miles from Gatlinburg, along Little River Road. Unlike many other waterfalls in the park, Meigs Falls can be seen from the road, making it an easy stop.
- Meigs Falls Viewing Area: No hike required; viewing from Little River Road.
Rainbow Falls
Located in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Rainbow Falls is certainly a must-see waterfall.
Located on the Rainbow Falls Trail, it’s especially stunning because of the mist that creates rainbows on sunny days.
The trail is about 5.4 miles round trip and is also considered strenuous.
- Trail Length: 5.4 miles round trip
- Level: Strenuous
- Additional Info HERE!
Ramsey Cascades
Located in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Ramsey Cascades is the tallest waterfall, cascading over 100 feet down a rugged rock face.
Located in the Greenbrier area, it’s about 15 miles from Gatlinburg.
The hike to Ramsey Cascades is certainly challenging, taking you through old-growth forests and offering beautiful scenery. Since it’s a strenuous hike, I would only recommend it for experienced hikers looking for a great challenge in the Smokies.
- Ramsey Cascades Trail: A strenuous 8-mile round-trip hike.
- Additional Info HERE!
The Sinks
Located in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, The Sinks is a powerful and beautiful waterfall, just 12 miles west of Sugarlands Visitor Center on Little River Road.
Because of its strong currents and turbulent waters, it’s best admired from a distance. The falls are certainly breathtaking, and you can enjoy the view safely from the parking area.
Please note: this is certainly NOT the place to swim. Altogether, it’s an easy-to-reach must-see spot in the Smokies.
- The Sinks Viewing Area: No hike required; viewing from the parking area.
West Prong Falls
West Prong Falls, located in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, is certainly a wonderful spot to explore.
Located about 10 miles from Townsend, TN, along the West Prong of the Little River.
Also, this area is also less crowded than other spots in the park, which makes it perfect for a hike with nice views.
- West Prong Trail: A moderate 2-mile round-trip hike.
Discover Waterfall Wonders Across Tennessee
So now, let’s explore more waterfalls across the state.
Get ready to discover some stunning spots and hidden gems in Tennessee!
Whether you’re looking for a challenging hike or an easy walk, there’s something for everyone.
Caryville, TN: Little Egypt Falls
Little Egypt Falls in Caryville, TN, is a hidden gem worth exploring.
I hiked this fall with my nieces, and it was a pretty easy hike, although you will be hiking uphill some.
Located near Cove Lake State Park, the falls cascade beautifully into a lovely spot. Although the trail runs parallel to Interstate 75, and you can hear some of the interstate noise, the hike is still enjoyable.
This spot is super close to Cove Lake State Park, so try to camp a night or two if you can. There are also other great places to stay in the area.
- Little Egypt Falls Trail: An easy 1-mile round-trip hike.
- Additional Info HERE!
Chattanooga, TN: Ruby Falls
Ruby Falls, located within Lookout Mountain in Chattanooga, TN, is a breathtaking 145-foot underground waterfall.
This natural wonder is close to Chattanooga, Knoxville, and Nashville, making it a must-see for travelers.
The falls are illuminated to highlight their natural beauty, creating a magical experience for visitors.
Columbia, TN: Stillhouse Hollow Falls
Stillhouse Hollow Falls, located near Columbia in Middle Tennessee, is a hidden gem perfect for a day hike.
This beautiful 75-foot waterfall is nestled in the Stillhouse Hollow Falls State Natural Area, offering a serene escape into nature.
The trail to the falls is relatively short but provides a rewarding experience with lush forest scenery and the soothing sounds of the cascading water.
- Stillhouse Hollow Falls Trail: A moderate 1.2-mile round-trip hike with some steep sections and natural terrain.
Cookeville, TN: Burgess Falls
Burgess Falls in Cookeville, TN, is a fantastic spot to visit.
The main waterfall drops an impressive 136 feet into a gorge, giving you a breathtaking view.
Located off Interstate 40, it’s about 100 miles west of Knoxville and 80 miles east of Nashville, which also makes it perfect for a short getaway or a day trip.
Also, the area around Burgess Falls State Park is great for exploring, and there are plenty of activities and places to stay for a few days.
Whether you’re hiking, picnicking, or just soaking in the scenery, Burgess Falls is a must see!
- Burgess Falls Trail: A moderate 1.5-mile round-trip hike.
Cookeville, TN: Cummins Falls
If you’re in Cookeville and looking for a great waterfall hike, head to Cummins Falls State Park.
Located between Cookeville and Nashville. About 90 minutes from downtown Nashville, Cummins Falls features a stunning 75-foot waterfall that cascades into a large swimming hole.
The hike to the falls is approximately 3 miles round trip, taking you through a beautiful gorge and along the Blackburn Fork State Scenic River. It’s a moderate hike, with some rocky and steep sections, but the view and the refreshing swim at the base of the falls make it well worth the effort.
Crab Orchard, TN: Ozone Falls
Ozone Falls in Crab Orchard, TN, is an amazing spot to visit. This 110-foot waterfall plunges into a deep pool, creating a stunning view.
It’s about 60 miles west of Knoxville and 40 miles from Oak Ridge, which also makes it a quick and easy trip. Also, the area around the falls is beautiful and perfect for a day of exploring.
The hike to the falls is short but has some rocky spots that might be difficult for accessibility needs and young children.
- Ozone Falls Trail: An easy 0.3-mile round-trip hike.
Memphis, TN: Woodland Waterfall
Located just outside Memphis, Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park in Millington, is a great spot for a waterfall adventure. The park features the Woodland Waterfall along the Woodland Trail.
This 3.5-mile moderate hike takes you through the forest and is perfect for a quick escape from the city.
You can enjoy a picnic, go fishing, or watch the many bird species that live in the park. Spanning over 12,000 acres along the Mississippi River, the park offers plenty of outdoor activities.
- Woodland Trail: A moderate 3.5-mile hike through the forest to Woodland Waterfall.
Nashville, TN: Jackson Falls
Jackson Falls, located at milepost 404.7 on the Natchez Trace Parkway, is a perfect spot for a quick nature escape just an hour’s drive from Nashville.
This small but picturesque waterfall is best seen after heavy rainfall, enhancing its flow over mossy boulders.
The hike to the falls is very accessible, with a less than 0.1-mile flat, concrete walkway from the parking area, making it suitable for all ages and abilities.
Once there, you can enjoy the peaceful surroundings, walk in the water below the falls, and take in the lush, forested area. Also, be sure to visit the nearby Baker’s Bluff viewpoint for more scenic views of the area.
- Jackson Falls Trail: An easy, less than 0.1-mile flat, concrete walkway from the parking area to the falls.
Nashville, TN: The Narrows Tunnel Trail
For a unique waterfall experience near Nashville, check out The Narrows Tunnel Trail in Harpeth River State Park.
This short 0.25-mile trail leads you through a historic, hand-carved tunnel to a beautiful waterfall and the scenic Narrows of the Harpeth.
The hike is easy and suitable for all ages, making it a perfect outing for families.
Along the way, you’ll enjoy picturesque views of the Harpeth River and the surrounding cliffs. It’s a great spot for a quick escape into nature and some beautiful photo opportunities.
- The Narrows Tunnel Trail: An easy 0.25-mile hike to the waterfall.
Rock Island, TN: Twin Falls
Not far from Fall Creek Falls State Park, Twin Falls is located in Rock Island State Park in Rock Island, Tennessee.
This stunning waterfall is created by water flowing from an underground cave system, cascading 80 feet down a cliff into the Caney Fork River.
The falls are easily accessible via a short, 0.5-mile hike from the parking area, making it perfect for a quick adventure.
The park also offers various activities, including fishing, boating, and exploring other scenic trails.
- Twin Falls Trail: An easy 0.5-mile hike from the parking area to the falls.
Spencer, TN: Fall Creek Falls
Located in Spencer, in Middle Tennessee, Fall Creek Falls is the tallest waterfall in the state, plunging 256 feet into a beautiful gorge.
You can easily walk to see the falls from the viewing area or take a short hike down to it.
Also, after a good rain, the falls are even fuller and more spectacular.
In the winter, they’re mesmerizing, especially when they freeze!
It’s an easy day trip from Knoxville, but consider finding a place to stay and explore Fall Creek Falls State Park.
My hubby and I spent a few days at the Fall Creek Falls Lodge, and we loved our room with views of the lake. There’s so much to do, from hiking and fishing to exploring other scenic spots in the park.
Try one of these three hikes to see Fall Creek Falls—trail maps can be found HERE ON AllTrails.
- Fall Creek Falls Overlook Trail: A short, easy 0.3-mile walk to a stunning viewpoint.
- Base of Fall Creek Falls Trail: A moderate 1.2-mile hike down to the base of the falls.
- Piney Falls Trail: A longer 2.5-mile hike that offers great views and access to the falls.
Tullahoma, TN: Machine Falls
Located in the Short Springs Natural Area near Tullahoma, in Middle Tennessee, Machine Falls is a stunning 60-foot waterfall that’s perfect for a day hike.
The 1.5-mile loop trail to the falls takes you through picturesque scenery, also including exposed black Chattanooga shale.
The trail is moderately challenging, with some steep sections, but the reward is a beautiful, tranquil waterfall. This hike is especially lovely in the spring when the mountain laurel is in bloom.
Wartburg, TN: Debord Falls
Debord Falls in Wartburg, TN, is a fantastic day trip spot, especially since it’s just an hour’s drive from Knoxville. Also, these 12-foot falls are tucked away in Frozen Head State Park, which is a great area to explore.
Also, the easy 1-mile round-trip hike is perfect for all ages, with the trail leading you through lush woods to the falls. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy nature.
Final Splash: Chase Waterfall Fun in Tennessee
Lastly, during your visit to Tennessee, make sure to see a waterfall.
These natural wonders offer beautiful views and great photo opportunities, which also provide a fun experience.
So, pack your hiking boots and camera, and get ready for an adventure!
Find Your Perfect Stay in Tennessee
So, are you ready to plan your trip and need to find a place to stay in Tennessee?
Whether you’re looking for a hotel, cozy cabin, a resort, or a spot downtown, we’ve got you covered. Book a room HERE!
Share your Adventures
So, share your Tennessee waterfall adventures with us using #TennesseeTrekkn. Also, be sure to check out our Facebook page. We can’t wait to hear about your experiences in Tennessee! Happy trekking, friends!
Photo to the left is from our hike to Little Egypt Falls in Caryville, TN.
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