As spring arrives and the weather warms up, Tennesseans are eager to escape indoors and explore nature. What better way to welcome the season than with a scenic waterfall tour? Tennessee boasts over 80 waterfalls, each with its own unique charm.
One of the best ways to experience these natural wonders is by following Tennessee’s Waterfall Loop—a breathtaking route covering 10 stunning waterfalls across the state. This journey will take you through four state parks and some of the most picturesque landscapes in Tennessee.
The entire route takes about five hours to drive, but with hikes and explorations, it’s best to plan for a two-day trip. So, grab your hiking boots, pack your bags, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!
Stop 1: Cummins Falls – A Popular Swimming Spot
Located in Jackson County, Cummins Falls is one of the most famous waterfalls in Tennessee. It’s also a favorite swimming hole, attracting visitors for over 100 years.
To reach the base of the waterfall, you’ll need to hike through rugged terrain, wade through water, and navigate slippery rocks. This hike is not suitable for children under five, and wearing sturdy shoes is essential.
📍 Address: 390 Cummins Falls Lane, Cookeville, TN 38501
🎟 Pass Required? Yes, an access permit is needed for the gorge and waterfall base.
Stop 2: Ozone Falls – A Stunning 110-Foot Drop
A short drive from Cummins Falls takes you to Ozone Falls in Cumberland County. This 110-foot waterfall is one of the most visited spots in Tennessee, thanks to its proximity to Interstate 40.
The mist created by the water’s long drop gives the area a fresh and clean air quality, which is why it’s called Ozone Falls. Visitors can enjoy a scenic rock house amphitheater and deep pools below the falls.
📍 Address: 24 Office Drive, Crossville, TN 38555
🎟 Pass Required? No, entry is free.
Stop 3: Piney Falls – A National Natural Landmark
Piney Falls in Rhea County is a national natural landmark and home to an ancient forest, deep gorges, and waterfalls. The trail to the falls offers stunning views and is a must-visit for nature lovers.
📍 Address: 1712 Firetower Road, Grandview, TN 37337
🎟 Pass Required? No, entry is free.
Stop 4: Stinging Fork Falls – A Hidden Gem
Not far from Piney Falls, you’ll find Stinging Fork Falls. The 30-foot waterfall is located within a scenic gorge, and a moderate hiking trail leads to its base. A nearby swimming hole makes this a great spot for a relaxing break.
📍 Location: Off Highway 68, west of Spring City
🎟 Pass Required? No, entry is free.
Stop 5: Fall Creek Falls – Tennessee’s Largest Waterfall
Halfway through the loop, you’ll arrive at Fall Creek Falls State Park, one of the largest and most visited parks in Tennessee. This massive park spans 29,800 acres and is home to multiple waterfalls, including:
- Fall Creek Falls – The tallest waterfall in the Eastern U.S. at 256 feet
- Cane Creek Cascades
- Piney Creek Falls
📍 Address: 2009 Village Camp Road, Spencer, TN 38585
🎟 Pass Required? No, but reservations are needed for overnight stays.
Stop 6: Cane Creek Cascades – An Overlook Trail Adventure
While at Fall Creek Falls State Park, make sure to visit Cane Creek Cascades. Hike the Gorge Overlook Trail for spectacular views of the waterfalls. The full tour covers about 3 miles and takes 1.5 hours to complete.
📍 Address: 2009 Village Camp Road, Spencer, TN 38585
🎟 Pass Required? No, but overnight stays require reservations.
Stop 7: Piney Creek Falls – A Short but Rewarding Hike
A quick 20-minute hike leads to the Piney Falls Overlook and Suspension Bridge. This short trail offers one of the best views in the park.
📍 Address: 2009 Village Camp Road, Spencer, TN 38585
🎟 Pass Required? No, but overnight stays require reservations.
Stop 8: Great Falls – A Spectacular Gorge View
Leaving Fall Creek Falls State Park, your next stop is Great Falls, located at Rock Island State Park. This 30-foot waterfall is surrounded by the stunning Caney Fork River Gorge, a popular spot for hiking and swimming.
⚠ Safety Note: Water releases from the Great Falls Dam can cause sudden flooding, so always check water conditions before visiting.
📍 Address: 82 Beach Road, Rock Island, TN 38581
🎟 Pass Required? No, entry is free.
Stop 9: Twin Falls – A Unique Waterfall Experience
While at Rock Island State Park, don’t miss Twin Falls. The Downstream Trail offers beautiful waterfall and river views. If you prefer a shorter hike, the Upstream Trail provides an excellent overlook of both Twin Falls and Great Falls.
📍 Address: 82 Beach Road, Rock Island, TN 38581
🎟 Pass Required? No, entry is free.
Stop 10: Burgess Falls – A Grand Finale to the Loop
The final stop on the Waterfall Loop is Burgess Falls State Park. Here, you’ll find four breathtaking waterfalls, including the stunning Burgess Falls, which cascades down from 250 feet.
While swimming is not allowed, visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching. The Burgess Falls Trail takes just 30 minutes to complete, making it an easy but rewarding experience.
📍 Address: 4000 Burgess Falls Drive, Sparta, TN 38583
🎟 Pass Required? No, entry is free.
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