The Best Waterfalls in Tennesse: A Magical Tennesse Waterfall Road Trip Itinerary

After my first visit to Tennessee, I immediately fell in love. I feel as though it’s a state that is not talked about a lot but NEEDS to be. There are SO MANY amazing waterfalls to explore, hikes to take, and outdoor adventures to partake in. This post will give you the ultimate Tennessee waterfall bucket list, + sample itineraries to help plan the most magical Tennessee Waterfall Road Trip.

Tip! Here’s a FREE printable bucket list to track your Tennessee Waterfalls!

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Tennesee Waterfalls to add to your Bucket List

Cul-car-mac Falls (Carmac Falls)

Carmac Falls are actually located on private property, but you can access these magical falls with a stay at Evins Mill or by purchasing a day pass to the grounds. A day-tripping pass includes a sack lunch, access to the trails, lawn games, and swimming beneath the falls. If wanting more time to explore, you can book a creekside cottage or room in the lodge.

Carmac Falls Quick Facts:

Hike Distance: 1 mile
Elevation Gain: 90 ft.
Waterfall height: 90 ft.
Entry Fee: 60 dollars for 2 people (Day Pass)
Dogs Allowed? No
Swimming Allowed? Yes

Burgess Falls

Visiting Burgess Falls in Tennessee is an incredible experience! There are four cascading waterfalls inside the State Park with Burgess Falls being the largest. A short 1.6-mile hike will take you past 3 smaller falls and then to the top of the 130-ft Burgess Falls.

Burgess Falls Quick Facts:

Hike Distance: 1.6 mile
Elevation Gain: 209 ft.
Waterfall height: 130 ft.
Entry Fee: Free
Dogs Allowed? Yes!
Swimming Allowed? No

Cummins Falls

As experienced by Victoria of Southern Trippers

Easily one of the best waterfall hikes in Tennessee, Cummins Falls stands at an astounding 75 feet tall and consists of two separate tiers. There’s also a large pool at the bottom, making this one of the best things to do in Tennessee on a hot summer day.

Additionally, because the trailhead is located in Cummins Falls State Park, it’s only about a 90-minute drive from Nashville and, therefore, an ideal day trip from the city.

Now, while you can do a short walk to a picturesque overlook, you can also tackle the Cummins Falls Base Route if you’re looking for adventure. This is a moderately difficult, 2.4-mile out-and-back hike to the falls (permit is needed) that features several steep sections and that requires traversing over slippery rocks along the Falls Overlook Trail and the Blackburn Fork.

Plus, if you want to spend the night then you can go camping at Old Mill Camp. It’s a great spot that is a short walk from the falls. This place also has a great general store and is well located to visit Burgess Falls too.

Cummins Falls Quick Facts

Hike Distance: 2.4 mile
Elevation Gain: 351 ft.
Waterfall height: 75 ft.
Entry Fee: Free, but a 6-dollar permit is required to hike to the base of the falls.
Dogs Allowed? Yes!
Swimming Allowed? Yes!

Keep Reading:: How to spend ONE WEEKEND in Nashville

Ozone Falls

Ozone Falls is a stunning, 100-foot waterfall located in Cumberland County, Tennessee. It is situated in a lush, forested area and is a popular destination for hikers, photographers, and nature lovers. The falls are fed by an underground stream and the sound of rushing water echoes through the air. Dogs are allowed to join you on this short hike, but it is a very steep trek down so be sure to proceed with caution.

Ozone Falls Quick Facts

Hike Distance: 0.3 mile
Elevation Gain: 111 ft.
Waterfall height: 110 ft.
Entry Fee: Free
Dogs Allowed? Yes (but can be difficult)
Swimming Allowed? Yes!

Blue Hole Falls

This short, but steep .4 mile hike leads you to the beautiful Blue Hole Falls. Once you reach the bottom, you’ll be met with a beautiful crystal-clear swimming hole. Due to its proximity to town and short distance, it is a busy spot so do expect to share the beauty with others.

If you have extra time in the area, there are several nearby caves to check out such as Worley’s Cave and Bristol Caverns.

Blue Hole Falls Quick Facts:

Hike Distance: 0.4 miles
Elevation Gain: 85 ft.
Waterfall height: 20 ft.
Entry Fee: Free
Dogs Allowed? Yes
Swimming Allowed? Yes

Margaratte Falls

Located in the Cherokee Forest, Margarette Falls is a beautiful 60-ft waterfall. The hike here is a moderate 2.4 mile trail with just over 600 ft of elevation gain. It starts off easy, but gets a bit harder as you continue up the trail. You will pass by several smaller falls and several water crossings.

If you have extra time after your hike, you can check out the historic town of Greenville, TN. You can check out some live music or comedy shows at the Capital Theater, or visit the David Crockett Birthplace State Park.

Margarette Falls Quick Facts

Hike Distance: 2.4 miles
Elevation Gain: 623 ft.
Waterfall height: 60 ft.
Entry Fee: Free
Dogs Allowed? Yes (but can be difficult)
Swimming Allowed? Usually too shallow

Rainbow Falls

As experienced by Jen from Dabbling in Jet Lag

If you’re looking for a breathtaking hike in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, look no further than Rainbow Falls. Located just outside the city, this stunning waterfall is nestled in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

From the trailhead, the hike follows a well-trodden yet rocky path for about 2.7 miles (5.1 mile rt). It’s a gentle incline for most of the way, but there are some steeper sections. So be prepared for a four-hour hike and bring plenty of water and snacks.

Along the way, you’ll pass smaller waterfalls where you can stop and take a break while enjoying the scenery. Once you arrive at Rainbow Falls itself, you’ll be greeted with a giant gushing waterfall that spills into several smaller pools. And, if it’s a sunny day, you’ll get to see a rainbow! It’s a magnificent sight, to say the least.

To get to the trailhead follow the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail until you reach the Rainbow Falls Parking Lot. If it’s full, there is an overflow parking lot further down the road. Finally, be aware that black bears are prevalent in the area, so you should be familiar with bear safety before heading out.

Rainbow Falls Quick Facts:

Hike Distance: 5.1 miles
Elevation Gain: 1617 ft.
Waterfall height: 80 ft.
Entry Fee: 5 dollars for Parking Pass (Starting March 1, 2023)
Dogs Allowed? No
Swimming Allowed? Not an ideal swimming hole

Keep Reading:: One Weekend in Gatlinburg, TN

Laurel Falls

As experienced by Alanna from Periodic Adventures

Laurel Falls is one of the best waterfalls (and most accessible) in Tennessee and can be done on any Great Smoky Mountains trip itinerary.

Located on the north end of the national park, Laurel Falls is one of the most popular stops for visitors. So, it’s best to arrive there early to beat the crowds, especially in the fall.

To get there, travel west from the Sugarlands Visitor Center. There is a designated parking lot, but again, it can get crowded so you may need to look for street parking leading up to the trail entrance.

The hike to Laurel Falls is a paved 2.5-mile out-and-back trail so those with wheelchairs and strollers can do it! You’ll first hike through the forest, which opens to a cliffside trail with incredible mountain views. Once you reach the waterfall, you can cross over it on a bridge and if possible, descend the stairs to get a fuller look of the multi-tiered falls.

Laurel Falls Quick Facts:

Hike Distance: 2.5 miles
Elevation Gain: 396 ft.
Waterfall height: 80 ft.
Entry Fee: 5 dollars for Parking Pass (Starting March 1, 2023)
Dogs Allowed? No
Swimming Allowed? No

Spruce Flats Falls

For those looking for a shorter, yet still amazing, hike in the Great Smoky Mountains, Spruce Flat Falls gives you just that. At just over 1.8 miles, this moderate trail will lead you to a beautiful cascading 40-ft falls. During your trek, you’ll catch glimpses of the smoky mountains and maybe even see a black bear!

Spruce Flat Falls Quick Facts

Hike Distance: 1.8 miles
Elevation Gain: 413 ft.
Waterfall height: 40 ft.
Entry Fee: 5 dollars for Parking Pass (Starting March 1, 2023)
Dogs Allowed? No
Swimming Allowed? Not an ideal swimming hole

Abrams Falls

Abrams Falls in Tennessee is a popular attraction located in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It is a 30-foot-tall waterfall made up of two cascades. The first cascade is a 20-foot drop, followed by a 10-foot drop.

The falls are fed by the Abrams Creek, which is the largest tributary of the Little Tennessee River. The hike to Abrams Falls is about 5.5 miles round-trip and is considered to be an easy to moderate difficulty. It is a popular spot for those looking for a peaceful hike with stunning views.

The best time to visit is in the spring and early summer months when the water levels are higher and the foliage is more vibrant. Be sure to bring water and a camera as you won’t want to miss out on this beautiful spot in Tennessee!

Abrams Falls Quick Facts:

Hike Distance: 5.5 miles
Elevation Gain: 629 ft.
Waterfall height: 20 ft.
Entry Fee: 5 dollars for Parking Pass (Starting March 1, 2023)
Dogs Allowed? No
Swimming Allowed? No, very dangerous due to strong undertow

Bald River Falls

Bald River Falls in Tennessee is a beautiful natural waterfall that is located in the Cherokee National Forest. It is located just off of the Cherohala Skyway, near the town of Tellico Plains.

The falls themselves are breathtaking, with a powerful cascade of water falling at just under 100 feet into a deep pool. The surrounding area is also very picturesque, with lush greenery, wildflowers, and moss-covered rocks. It is a popular spot for photographers, hikers, and fishermen.

The trail is one of the longer ones on this list at 8.8 miles, but 100 percent worth it on your Tennessee Waterfall Road Trip. It is a moderately difficult hike that is not well-marked in all spots.

Bald River Falls Quick Facts:

Hike Distance: 8.8 miles
Elevation Gain: 774 ft.
Waterfall height: 90 ft.
Entry Fee: Free
Dogs Allowed? Yes
Swimming Allowed? Yes

Benton Falls

Benton Falls in Tennessee is a beautiful place to go for a hike along your Tennessee Waterfall Road Trip! The trail is an easy 3 miles and features rolling hills and cascading waterfall with steps to get to the base. It’s located in the Cherokee National Forest and there is a 3 dollar fee for the day-use area.

Benton Falls Quick Facts

Hike Distance: 3 miles
Elevation Gain: 291 ft.
Waterfall height: 65 ft.
Entry Fee: 3 dollars
Dogs Allowed? Yes
Swimming Allowed? No swimming hole/Shallow

Want to pass the time while roadtrippin’ between the waterfalls? Check out these 201+ USA Trivia Questions!

Lover’s Leap

Lovers Leap is one of the most popular attractions at Rock City Gardens. It is located high atop Lookout Mountain and offers breathtaking views of seven states and the Great Smoky Mountains. The legend of Lovers Leap is that a Cherokee princess and a brave young warrior were so deeply in love that they jumped off the mountain rather than be apart.

Visitors can enjoy the panoramic views of the mountain range, as well as the lush gardens, trails, and historic rock formations. There is also a gift shop and restaurant on site, making Lovers Leap the perfect spot to spend a day exploring and enjoying the beauty of nature. This waterfall is definitely more on the touristy side, but still 100 percent worth the stop.

Lovers Leap Quick Facts

Hike Distance: 0.6 miles
Elevation Gain: 82 ft.
Waterfall height: 100 ft.
Entry Fee: 18 dollars pp
Dogs Allowed? Yes
Swimming Allowed? No

Ruby Falls

Ruby Falls is a popular tourist destination in Chattanooga, Tennessee. It is a 145-foot-tall waterfall located deep within Lookout Mountain and is the tallest and deepest underground waterfall open to the public in the United States.

Visitors can take a guided tour of the site, which includes the history and geology of the area. There are different tours to choose from including a lantern tour and a gentle walking tour. There’s even a zipline and treehouses on-site!

Ruby Falls Quick Facts:

Hike Distance: Tour lasts between 60 and 80 minutes
Waterfall height: 145 ft.
Entry Fee: 25 dollars pp (Advanced Reservations Required)
Dogs Allowed? No
Swimming Allowed? No

Foster Falls

At only 36 miles from Chattanooga, you will be met with the beautiful South Cumberland State Park. Throughout this park, you will find waterfalls and 90 miles of hiking trails.

The highlight of this park is definitely the epic Foster Falls. It’s a short, but rocky 0.6 mile to the base of the falls where you will find a swinging bridge and swimming hole. It is a popular hike, so be prepared for some crowds.

Foster Falls Quick Facts:

Hike Distance: 0.6 miles
Elevation Gain: 154 ft.
Waterfall height: 60 ft.
Entry Fee: Free
Dogs Allowed? Yes
Swimming Allowed? Yes

Denny Cove

Although smaller than others on this list, Denny Cove is one of my favorite spots! This 2.8-mile trail inside of South Cumberland State Park brings you to your own private oasis. It’s the perfect spot to relax, eat a picnic, and listen to the sound of the waterfall.

When we hiked it, we did not see another person the entire hike!

Denny Cove Quick Facts:

Hike Distance: 2.8 miles
Elevation Gain: 410 ft.
Waterfall height: 70 ft.
Entry Fee: Free
Dogs Allowed? Yes
Swimming Allowed? You can, but it’s pretty shallow

Machine Falls

During this 5-mile loop trail, you’ll actually pass multiple waterfalls with the main attraction being 60-ft Machine Falls. I recommend allotting at least 3 hours for this hike so you can take time to enjoy each waterfall. The parking lot is a bit small, so be sure to arrive early to get a spot. If you aren’t up to 5 miles, there are shorter routes available.

Machine Falls Quick Facts

Hike Distance: 5 miles
Elevation Gain: 662 ft.
Waterfall height: 60 ft.
Entry Fee: Free
Dogs Allowed? Yes
Swimming Allowed? You can, but it’s pretty shallow

Greeter Falls

Greeter Falls is an impressive waterfall just 1 hour north of Chattanooga and 1.5 hours south of Nashville. During this 3.2-mile hike, you’ll pass by the 15-foot upper falls (pictured below) AND THE 50-ft lower falls (pictured above). The trail is moderately difficult with stairs to get to the base of the Greeter Falls.

Greeter Falls Quick Facts:

Hike Distance: 3.2 miles
Elevation Gain: 518ft.
Waterfall height: 50ft.
Entry Fee: Free
Dogs Allowed? Yes
Swimming Allowed? Swimming hole at the end of the trail

Boardtree Falls

Make sure to not stop at Greeter Falls, because as you keep going along the 3.2 mile trail, you’ll come across the epic Broadtree Falls. Two massive waterfalls in just 3 miles?! Sounds like my kind of trail!

Broadtree Falls Quick Facts:

Hike Distance: 3.2 miles
Elevation Gain: 518ft.
Waterfall height: 15 ft
Entry Fee: Free
Dogs Allowed? Yes
Swimming Allowed? Swimming hole at the end of the trail

Keep Reading! Did you know ALABAMA had its fair share of epic waterfalls?!

Savage Falls

After parking, you’ll find the trailhead to Savage Falls just beyond the bathrooms. It’s an easy 2.9 mile hike to these cascading falls. After a swim in this crystal-blue water, be sure to explore the rest of the Savage Gulf Natural Ara which has more than 50-acres of trails!

Savage Falls Quick Facts:

Hike Distance: 2.9 miles
Elevation Gain: 295 ft.
Waterfall height: 30 ft.
Entry Fee: Free
Dogs Allowed? Yes
Swimming Allowed? Yes

Fall Creek Falls

Fall Creek Falls State Park is AMAZING. Directly from the parking lot, you are met with the overlook of the falls. So if hiking is not your thing, you still can see this magnificent waterfall. If feeling adventurous, be sure to hike down to the base of the waterfall. It is a short, but extremely rocky trip down.

Fall Creek Falls is the most popular waterfalls in the state park and also the tallest waterfall in the state. It is a 256-foot plunge waterfall and is very impressive. There are also several other waterfalls throughout the park, including Cane Creek Falls, Piney Creek Falls, and Rockhouse Falls.

Fall Creek Falls Quick Facts:

Hike Distance: 0.8 miles
Elevation Gain: 288 ft.
Waterfall height: 256 ft.
Entry Fee: Free
Dogs Allowed? Yes
Swimming Allowed? Usually not deep enough, but you’ll likely see swimmers on hot summer days.

Cane Creek Falls

Cane Creek Falls is a beautiful waterfall also located in Fall Creek Falls State Park. The falls have a drop of about 75 feet, and the water cascades down the cliff face in a series of cascades before reaching a large pool at the base.

There are several short trails that lead to the falls, and a beautiful swinging bridge along the hike. If you aren’t up for a hike, you can view the falls from an overlook close to the parking lot.

Cane Creek Falls Quick Facts:

Hike Distance: 0.4 miles
Elevation Gain: 82 ft.
Waterfall height: 85 ft.
Entry Fee: Free
Dogs Allowed? Yes
Swimming Allowed? Yes

Twin Falls

Although you can see both of these falls from the road, the 1.6-mile loop is a great way to see more of the area. You will pass smaller falls and even a cave along the trail.

The falls are located in Rock Island State Park where you’ll find 883 acres to explore. In addition to Twin Falls, you can also canoe, kayak, camp, fish, and swim (at the beach only).

Twin Falls Quick Facts

Hike Distance: 1.6 miles
Elevation Gain: 223 ft.
Waterfall height: 60 ft.
Entry Fee: Free
Dogs Allowed? Yes
Swimming Allowed? No, dangerous currents from the Dam.

Sample Tennessee Waterfall Road Trip Itineraries

Tip! Use the map above with a Nashville Starting Point for an epic Tennessee Waterfall Road Trip! Or check out this complete Southeast Road Trip Itinerary!

IMPORTANT! It’s important to note that most of these waterfalls differ GREATLY BY SEASON. If traveling during the dry and hot season, expect the flow to be much slower. I always check out the recent Instagram tags and hashtags while planning a waterfall trip.

What other stops would you add on this Tennessee Waterfall Road Trip!? Come let me know on Instagram!

DON’T FORGET TO DOWNLOAD THIS FREE TENNESSEE WATERFALL BUCKET LIST!