Summary
Tennessee boasts over 325 waterfalls, presenting a formidable task in selecting merely 15; however, the chosen falls are undeniably the most spectacular.
When considering the quantity of waterfalls exceeding 200 feet in height with accompanying pools below, their allure is greatly enhanced.
Many of these waterfalls are located in proximity to Nashville or can be reached within a few hours’ drive.
Hikers can select from shorter trails or more challenging routes based on their capability and preferences.
1. Cane Creek Cascades
Cane Creek Cascades is located near Spencer within Fall Creek Falls State Park, Tennessee.
The name evokes majesty, yet one may presume the cascades feature smaller drops that might not justify the visit.
The cascades are expansive, with a drop of less than 20 feet into a shallow pool surrounded by numerous boulders.
While Fall Creek Falls showcases greater height, there is a unique charm in the scenic beauty and serenity of these cascades. Moreover, the hiking experience is more accessible than reaching the falls of Fall Creek.
2. Burgess Falls
Burgess Falls, located in Sparta, Tennessee, offers an extraordinary trek.
To reach these stunning falls, one must embark on the River Trail along the Service Loop Road to arrive at the top.
It is essential to acknowledge that the descent is steep and potentially hazardous.
Burgess Falls is the most striking among the four waterfalls situated within Burgess Falls State Park.
The quartet of waterfalls cascades over a 250-foot descent from the summit of the mountain to the river’s lowest point.
The most impressive waterfall is the 130-foot Burgess, which tumbles into a breathtaking gorge.
3. Altamont Falls
Altamont Falls, located near Altamont, Tennessee, presents one of the most picturesque and moderately challenging hikes.
Visitors can embark on the Greeter Falls Loop and Trail, covering 3.2 miles to reach the falls.
The park permits dogs, provided they remain leashed.
Hikers can expect an elevation gain of 485 feet.
The lower Greeter Falls is approximately 30 minutes from the parking area in South Cumberland State Park.
A side trail from the lower falls leads to a Blue Hole swimming area, or hikers may continue their ascent to Altamont Falls.
4. Foster Falls
Foster Falls, also part of Cumberland State Park, requires hikers to commence their journey at the Foster Falls Visitor Center in Sequatchie, Tennessee.
This waterfall descends 60 feet, located just two miles from the parking area.
The hiking experience is of medium difficulty, featuring a loop trail that leads back to the starting point.
The optimal seasons to visit are spring, summer, or fall.
Opportunities for rock climbing, swimming, and camping exist within the park.
The path descends into a gorge, bringing visitors to the base of the falls.
The invigorating waters invite many to swim near the cascades, allowing them to appreciate the powerful flow of water cascading over the cliff into the gorge.
5. Twin Falls
Twin Falls, situated in Rock Island State Park, spans across White and Warren Counties, where the Collins and Caney river forks converge.
The park is home to multiple waterfalls; however, Twin Falls stands out as the largest, with an impressive 80-foot drop.
The hike to the falls measures one mile.
The trail does not form a loop but follows an out-and-back pattern.
The elevation gain is minimal, and the terrain is enjoyable, allowing for a straightforward hike to the magnificent waterfall.
This location can be accessed year-round due to its mild climate.
6. Coon Creek Falls
Fall Creek Falls State Park, as previously mentioned, features multiple waterfalls, including the notable Coon Creek Falls.
This waterfall boasts a drop of 250 feet, closely rivaling the 256-foot plunge of Fall Creek Falls.
Visitors have the option to view both falls from an overlook or take a gentle stroll along a landscaped path.
Interestingly, both Fall Creek and Coon Creek Falls cascade into the same pool below; however, there is no safe access to the bottom, and it is inadvisable to attempt cliff diving into the plunge pool due to numerous rocks and an unpredictably shallow depth.
7. The Falls of Old Stone Fort State Park
Discussing a single waterfall in Old Stone Fort State Park proves challenging, as the park boasts ten waterfalls. The most remarkable among them is Step Falls, which is associated with Little Duck River.
Additionally, Bluehole Falls provides a brief yet scenic hike.
Bluehole Falls features a height of 30 feet and culminates in a pool.
Big Falls is the most majestic of the group, with a drop exceeding 30 feet.
Step Falls derives its name from the tiered features that facilitate short drops instead of a continuous cascade.
8. Emory Gap Falls
Emory Gap Falls, located in Wartburg, Tennessee, is accessible from Panther Branch Trailhead.
The total distance to the falls is 3.2 miles out and back from the trailhead.
With an elevation gain of 465 feet, the incline is gradual, featuring a manageable walking path rather than rugged terrain.
Debord Falls is the first waterfall encountered along the path, easily visible yet less impressive than Emory Gap.
Debord Falls comprises a two-tier cascade that is relatively diminutive.
Continuing another 0.7 miles from Debord leads to Emory Gap.
9. Ozone Falls
Ozone Falls is part of Ozone Falls Park.
Spanning 43 acres, this natural area attracts many visitors for picnicking and enjoyment. Nevertheless, few are aware of the nearby waterfall that plunges 110 feet.
Fall Creek serves as the source of the waterfall, flowing down the rocks into a pool before vanishing underground, only to re-emerge shortly after.
10. Carmac Falls
Carmac Falls, located in Evins Mill near Smithville, Tennessee, features a breathtaking 90-foot drop.
A short hike leads to the spectacular falls, accessible from Evins Mill Resort.
For those interested in the hike, it is advisable to contact the resort to verify trail accessibility.
Although the property is primarily private, it is uncommon for visitors to be denied access.
The hike spans one mile, providing an easy stroll to the waterfall.
Swimming is permitted at one’s own risk.
11. Conasauga Falls
Conasauga Falls are situated at Tellico Plains.
This waterfall flows over a series of rocks, cascading down two tiers into the river below.
Swimming is not permitted at this location due to the absence of a pool.
The hike to the falls extends 1.2 miles.
This trail consists of a downhill trek, presenting a greater challenge on the return due to the slippery rocks.
The trail remains open from April to October.
12. Machine Falls
Machine Falls, found in Short Springs State Natural Area just outside Tullahoma, Tennessee, ranks among the tallest waterfalls in the state, cascading down a rocky face.
Lichen adorns the rocks, enhancing the visual appeal.
A small pool sits at the base of the falls, accompanied by a steep rock formation.
The trail extends 1.6 miles.
As a loop trail, hikers can easily return to their vehicles across a short distance, or opt for a longer route by crossing the bridge to the opposite side of the falls.
While the elevation gain is manageable, caution is advised due to occasional slippery rocks.
Dogs are permitted on the trail.
13. Sink Creek Falls
Sink Creek Falls are situated in Dekalb County.
Although not as towering as Machine Falls, Sink Creek Falls exhibits its own stunning beauty and merits the journey.
Water cascades from one location in the river, emerging from the mountain at another point, forming a nearly 180-degree waterfall with subterranean and surface river flows.
The water does not plunge over rocks but cascades over rock formations, creating a small whirlpool below before continuing downstream.
The swift currents in this area make attempts to cross near the falls ill-advised.
14. Falls of Jericho
The Falls of Jericho lie along the Tennessee-Alabama state boundary.
Legend has it that Davy Crockett utilized this area for hunting expeditions.
This natural preserve encompasses 8,900 acres of hiking and equestrian trails.
The trail leading to the falls spans 3.5 miles one way and descends into the valley.
The cascading water impacts a shelf beneath which a cavern exists before plummeting into a shallow pool.
15. Cummins Falls
Cummins Falls is part of Cummins Falls State Park, located near Cookeville, in Jackson County.
The park spans over 200 acres and features the stunning 75-foot Cummins Falls.
A pool awaits below for those seeking to cool off and enjoy some swimming after the one-mile hike required to reach the falls.
The round trip encompasses two miles of rugged terrain.
As one of the more accessible waterfalls, it tends to attract significant crowds, especially during the summer months leading up to Labor Day.
