Waterfalls around Tennessee
Tennessee is an outdoor paradise with so many incredible waterfalls to see all across the state. Many waterfalls are nestled in state parks and there are some hidden gems in the Smoky Mountains. Tennessee is home to some awesome must visit waterfalls. Check out some of the top waterfalls to visit here!
getting to Tennessee waterfalls
The easiest way to get around to visiting the waterfalls in Tennessee is by driving. Lots of these waterfalls involve some hiking to get to them but some do not. We visited some on our visits to Manchester and Nashville area. We also stopped at some on road trips. We also saw some in the Great Smoky Mountains!
Must Visit Waterfalls around Tennessee
Fall Creek Falls
Fall Creek Falls is a 256 feet waterfall located in Fall Creek Falls State Park near Spencer, Tennessee. It is the tallest waterfall in the eastern US. There is a great lookout from the parking lot. There is a strenuous 0.4 mile hike to the bottom of the falls.
Rutledge Falls
Rutledge Falls, located in Manchester, Tennessee, is a 40-foot waterfall. It is on private land and open from dawn to dusk. It is a 0.3 mile round-trip hike with a bit of rocky terrain. We were wearing hiking shoes. There is a cute barn near the start of the small hike. Dogs are welcome.
Twin Falls
Twin Falls in Warren County, Tennessee is a unique waterfall located at the Rock Island State Park. It is about an 80 foot drop. There are views from parking area or you can hike the Downstream Trail which is 1.7 miles and relatively flat to give different view of the falls.
Ozone Falls
Ozone Falls is a 110 foot waterfall in Cumberland County within the Ozone Falls State Natural Area. We stopped here for a brief stop on a road trip as it is easily accessible off of US Route 70. You can view the falls from the top but it is well worth the hike to the bottom but it is a little steep and rocky.
Burgess Falls
Burgess Falls near Baxter, Tennessee is a multi-tiered waterfall in Burgess Falls State Park and known for its plunge into a gorge. It is a cascade waterfall on the Falling Water River and falls approximately 136 feet into the gorge. It is a 1.2 mile out and back trail to get there.
Stillhouse Hollow Falls
Stillhouse Hollow Falls Trail is a moderately-challenging 1.2 mile out and back trail in Maury County Tennessee. The waterfall is a 75 foot waterfall and you can walk up behind the falls which is really cool!
Machine Falls
Machine Falls near Tullahoma, Tennessee, is part of the Machine Falls Loop Trail in the Short Springs Natural Area. It is a moderate 3.2 mile loop hike that offers views of Busby and Machine Falls. It takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes to complete. There is a viewing platform but I highly recommend hiking to the bottom for some epic pictures. It is dog friendly. Parking is limited and located near a water tower.
Ruby Falls
Ruby Falls is a stunning underground waterfall inside of Lookout Mountain near Chattanooga, Tennessee. You can visit this waterfall with a guided cave tour. You must buy tickets to see this waterfall.
Old Stone Fort State Archaeological Park
This state park allows visitors to explore scenic hiking trails and ancient Native American mounds. There are several small waterfalls including Big Falls, Blue Hole Falls and Step Falls. There is camping and activities available. To learn more about the Old Stone Fort State Park.
Laurel and Grotto Falls
Laurel and Grotto Falls are both popular waterfalls in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park. Laurel Falls is an easy 2.6 mile paved trail and it is an 80 foot two-tiered waterfall. Grotto Falls is popular because it is the only waterfall in the National Park you can go behind. It is a moderate 2.6 mile out and back trail. Both these falls are popular so arrive early for parking.
Rainbow Falls
Rainbow Falls is a great waterfall within the Great Smoky Mountain National Park near Gatlinburg, Tennessee. It is an 80 foot single-drop waterfall. It is named for rainbow effect when sunlight hits falls on sunny afternoons. it is a moderately challenging 5.5 roundtrip hike. Of note, this hike took longer than expected. There is a smaller waterfall along the way as well! We also saw a bear on the hike!
Our experience with waterfalls in Tennessee
We have made several trips to Tennessee over the years via our cross country road trip and by visiting family in the Nashville area. We also made a trip to Great Smoky Mountains for a weekend in Gatlinburg and we just scratched the surface of the incredible waterfalls in this beautiful state. If you like to get outdoors and do a little bit of hiking you will be amazed visiting these must visit waterfalls!
