Here I have compiled a list of the 5 best Tennessee Waterfalls [That I have visited]. These trails are all under 3 miles long, so would make many great day trips or even a great day of hiking as many are in close proximity to one another.
Ozone Falls
Although, Ozone Falls is located on a smaller natural area, [43-acres], it definitely doesn’t mean that the trip isn’t worth it! This natural area in Cumberland County and is actually one of Tennessee’s most heavily-visited state natural area. Definitely not a big surprise there, with how absolutely beautiful the area is. If you are ever nearby, I would highly recommend this 0.3 mile out and back hike!
Click HERE for the map of Ozone Falls Natural area.
Address
14859 TN Highway 1, Rockwood, TN 37854
Rock Island: Twin Falls
Rock Island State Park is home to the beautiful and often photographed twin falls. We definitely couldn’t keep this Tennessee Waterfall off of our list!
Rock Island is a 883 acre park, that can have dangerous condition as like Cummins Falls mentioned later in this article. Ensure that you check online on the Tennessee State Park’s website before visiting, as the gorge may be closed.
Keep in mind, to ALWAYS use caution when you are in the gorge as water can rise quickly. LEAVE immediately if you begin to see water beginning to rise.
Click HERE to visit Rock Island on the Tennessee State Park Website.
Address
82 Beach Road, Rock Island, TN 38581
Fall Creek Falls
Next, is the beautiful Fall Creek Falls State Park. It is one of Tennessee’s largest and most visited state parks [standing at approximately 29,800 acres]. The most notable location within the park is Fall Creek Falls. With only a short walk from the parking area, this location is perfect if you are only looking for a nice stroll with a beautiful view.
falls.
However, if you are looking for a bit of a challenge you can hike to the bottom of the waterfall on a steep and strenuous .4 mi each way [.8 total round trip] hike.
Click HERE to visit Fall Creek Falls on the Tennessee State Park Website.
Address
10821 Park Rd, Pikeville, TN 37367
Burgess Falls
Located in Sparta, Tennessee this hike takes you to a great viewing platform of the waterfall. The bottom of Burgess Falls is inaccessible to hikers. However, you can kayak up the river to reach a great view where you can experience spectacular views of the ever-flowing waterfall. The hike is approximately 1.60 miles long.
Click HERE to visit Burgess Falls on the Tennessee State Park Website.
Address
4000 Burgess Falls Dr, Sparta, TN 38583
Cummins Falls
Cummins Falls is located within Cummins Falls State Park in Cookeville, Tennessee. The hike is approximately 2.1 miles long and is marked as moderate.
Before you visit Cummins Falls, please note:
According to the TN State Parks Website:
- Gorge Access Permit required to visit the base of the waterfall.
- The base of the waterfall is only accessible on fair-weather days.
- Cummins Falls is a natural area with inherent safety risks.
- The gorge is prone to flash flooding.
- Visiting the gorge is a very strenuous and physical activity.
- You should comply with the park’s safety instructions.
- We recommend that children 5 and under not go to the falls.
- Children under 12 must wear life vests at falls and be accompanied by an adult.
- Visiting the waterfall will require:
- Strenuous Hiking
- Swimming or wading through water
- Climbing Rocks
- Crossing Slippery Rocks
Click HERE to visit Cummins Falls on the Tennessee State Park Website.
Address
Cummins Falls State Park
390 Cummins Falls Ln, Cookeville, TN 38501
Conclusion
Tennessee has OVER 500 waterfalls, these are the top 5 Tennessee Waterfalls that I have visited within the state. Many of the mentioned waterfalls are near one another. Therefore, many of them could be explored even if you have just a few days to spend in the area. Get out there and explore, just remember to “Leave no Trace”.
If you have any recommendations please drop a comment and you may see the waterfall mentioned in the near future.
To see more Tennessee destinations click HERE.
