Tennessee is home to some of the most stunning waterfalls in the United States, with over 500 waterfalls scattered throughout the state. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or someone who just loves beautiful landscapes, Tennessee’s waterfalls are sure to leave you in awe. From towering cascades to hidden gems tucked away in forests, here are 21 Beautiful Waterfalls in Tennessee you shouldn’t miss when visiting the Volunteer State.
1. Machine Falls
Why It’s Stunning
Machine Falls, located in Short Springs State Natural Area in Tullahoma, is a stunning 60-foot waterfall. The hike to the falls offers views of exposed black Chattanooga shale and a variety of mountain laurels, particularly in the spring.
Best Time to Visit
Spring is the best time to visit Machine Falls, as the flowers bloom and the water flow is at its peak.
2. Northrup Falls
Why It’s Stunning
Northrup Falls is located in Colditz Cove State Natural Area in Fentress County. This 60-foot waterfall plunges over a rock shelf into a narrow gorge, offering breathtaking views. It’s a quiet, peaceful spot with a rich history, as it’s named after the family who settled here and operated a mill in the 1800s.
Best Time to Visit
Visit after rainfall or in early spring when the waterfall is flowing its fullest.
3. Conasauga Falls
Why It’s Stunning
Conasauga Falls is a three-tiered waterfall in Cherokee National Forest, reachable by a 1.5-mile out-and-back trail. The relatively short hike rewards visitors with stunning views of the falls and surrounding landscape.
Best Time to Visit
Spring is ideal for a visit, as the water flow is abundant after snowmelt and rain.
4. Spruce Flat Falls
Why It’s Stunning
Located in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Spruce Flat Falls is a quieter and less crowded waterfall compared to others in the park. The 1.8-mile hike to the falls offers rock and root-filled paths, but the stunning 20-foot waterfall at the end is well worth the journey.
Best Time to Visit
Early spring or fall is ideal to avoid crowds while still enjoying vibrant scenery.
5. Greeter Falls
Why It’s Stunning
Greeter Falls is located in Savage Gulf State Park, a new addition to Tennessee’s state park system. The 70-foot waterfall is a two-tiered cascade, with both the upper and lower falls accessible by a short, scenic hike.
Best Time to Visit
Spring brings the most impressive flow, and early spring is perfect for a peaceful, quiet experience.
6. Lost Creek Falls
Why It’s Stunning
Lost Creek Falls is in Lost Creek State Natural Area in Sparta, just east of Nashville. It’s an easy hike with a short 0.2-mile walk to the falls. The area also features a cave, which adds to its uniqueness.
Best Time to Visit
Late spring and fall are the best times to visit, when the flow is steady and the scenery is vibrant.
7. Burgess Falls
Why It’s Stunning
Burgess Falls, located in Burgess Falls State Park, is one of the most impressive waterfalls in Tennessee, with a 130-foot drop. The surrounding area offers stunning bluffs, forests, and diverse wildlife, making it an ideal place for a scenic hike.
Best Time to Visit
Spring provides the most beautiful surroundings, with ample water flow after rainfall.
8. Slave Falls
Why It’s Stunning
Slave Falls is located in Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area. The waterfall is part of a natural arch formation called Needle Arch, and while the water flow may be lower in summer, the hike is beautiful all year.
Best Time to Visit
Spring and early summer are the best times to visit for a powerful waterfall experience.
9. Twin Falls
Why It’s Stunning
Twin Falls is located in Rock Island State Park and is unique because it flows out of the walls of a gorge rather than from above. The waterfall is accessible with a short, easy hike down steep stairs from the parking area.
Best Time to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal, especially after rainfall.
10. Big Branch Falls
Why It’s Stunning
Located in Virgin Falls State Natural Area, Big Branch Falls is one of the many waterfalls you can visit along the park’s 9-mile round-trip trail. The area is a waterfall wonderland, with other notable falls like Virgin Falls, Sheep Cave Falls, and Big Laurel Falls.
Best Time to Visit
Late spring to early summer for lush surroundings and optimal flow.
11. Denny Cove Falls
Why It’s Stunning
Denny Cove Falls is located in South Cumberland State Park, offering a beautiful 70-foot waterfall. It’s especially popular with rock climbers, but the hike to the falls is equally rewarding for those looking for a scenic experience.
Best Time to Visit
Visit during spring or early summer for vibrant nature and full-flowing waterfalls.
12. Black Canyon Falls
Why It’s Stunning
Found in Grundy Forest Natural Area, Black Canyon Falls is a 15-foot waterfall on the Fiery Gizzard Trail. The hike is a bit challenging but offers a rewarding view of the waterfall and surrounding forest.
Best Time to Visit
Spring or fall for optimal water flow and great photographic opportunities.
13. Hemlock Falls
Why It’s Stunning
Hemlock Falls is located in Fall Creek Falls State Park and is one of the park’s hidden gems. With a 6.2-mile round-trip hike, Hemlock Falls is a beautiful and relatively peaceful waterfall in a park known for its famous Fall Creek Falls.
Best Time to Visit
Spring and fall are the best times for avoiding crowds and enjoying the waterfall at its fullest.
14. Cummins Falls
Why It’s Stunning
Cummins Falls is located in Cummins Falls State Park and is one of Tennessee’s largest waterfalls by volume. With a challenging 1.5-mile hike to the base of the falls, it’s perfect for adventurers and swimmers.
Best Time to Visit
Spring and summer are the best times for visiting this beautiful waterfall, although it can be crowded.
15. Laurel Run Falls
Why It’s Stunning
Laurel Run Falls is located in Laurel Run Park near Kingsport, Tennessee. The 1.8-mile round-trip hike to the falls passes through wildflowers and offers great views of the waterfall.
Best Time to Visit
Spring and early summer are perfect, especially for wildflower enthusiasts.
16. Ozone Falls
Why It’s Stunning
Located in Ozone Falls State Natural Area, Ozone Falls plunges 110 feet over a sandstone cap rock. It’s a dramatic waterfall, perfect for those looking for easy access with an incredibly scenic view.
Best Time to Visit
Spring for peak flow and vibrant surroundings.
17. Piney Falls
Why It’s Stunning
Piney Falls is part of the Piney Falls Natural Area in Cumberland Plateau. The waterfall cascades down 80 feet and is surrounded by old-growth forest, making it a stunning natural landmark.
Best Time to Visit
Spring for lush greenery and vibrant flow.
18. Abrams Falls
Why It’s Stunning
Located in Cades Cove, Abrams Falls may not be the tallest waterfall, but it’s known for its large pool beneath the falls, making it one of the most picturesque spots in the Great Smoky Mountains.
Best Time to Visit
Visit in spring or fall for a peaceful hiking experience with stunning views.
19. Rainbow Falls
Why It’s Stunning
Rainbow Falls, located in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, is one of the most popular waterfalls, known for the rainbows that form in the mist on sunny days.
Best Time to Visit
Spring and fall for the best experience and full waterfall flow.
20. Fall Creek Falls
Why It’s Stunning
Fall Creek Falls, located in Fall Creek Falls State Park, is the tallest waterfall in Tennessee, standing at 256 feet. It’s a must-see waterfall in the state for those visiting the park.
Best Time to Visit
Visit in spring for the fullest flow, especially after rainfall.
21. Rainbow Falls
Why It’s Stunning
Located in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Rainbow Falls is one of the park’s most popular waterfalls, famous for its stunning views and vibrant rainbows that appear in the mist.
Best Time to Visit
Best visited in spring or after a heavy rainstorm for the full waterfall experience.
Related Questions
What is the best time to visit Tennessee’s waterfalls?
The best time to visit Tennessee’s waterfalls is during spring, when rainfall and snowmelt provide the highest water flow. Additionally, spring brings lush vegetation and vibrant wildflowers to enhance the scenery.
Are there any waterfalls in Tennessee that are easily accessible?
Yes, there are several easily accessible waterfalls in Tennessee, such as Twin Falls at Rock Island State Park, Ozone Falls, and Laurel Run Falls. These waterfalls can be reached with short hikes or even from the roadside.
Which waterfall in Tennessee is the tallest?
Fall Creek Falls, located in Fall Creek Falls State Park, is the tallest waterfall in Tennessee, plunging 256 feet. It’s a must-see for waterfall enthusiasts.
Can you swim at Tennessee’s waterfalls?
At certain waterfalls, like Cummins Falls, you can swim in the pools at the base of the falls. However, it’s important to be cautious as some areas, such as Twin Falls, may have fluctuating water levels due to dam releases.
Conclusion
Tennessee is a haven for waterfall lovers, offering an incredible variety of falls across the state, from roadside beauties to hidden gems requiring a trek. Whether you’re looking for a serene spot for a picnic, an adventurous hike, or just a place to appreciate nature’s grandeur, Tennessee’s waterfalls are sure to leave you in awe. So pack your hiking boots and get ready to explore some of the most beautiful and diverse waterfalls in the Volunteer State!
