If you’re looking for a scenic and refreshing outdoor adventure in Middle Tennessee, then a hike to a waterfall may be just what you need. With its rolling hills, lush forests, and numerous waterways, Middle Tennessee is home to a variety of beautiful waterfalls that can be enjoyed on foot. From short and easy hikes to more challenging treks, there’s a waterfall hike for every skill level and interest. In this guide, there are 11 of great hikes with waterfalls in Middle Tennessee, along with descriptions and details on each hike and its nearest town. So grab your hiking boots, pack some snacks and water, and get ready to explore the natural beauty of Middle Tennessee!
I’ve included a difficulty rating based on popular opinion by each hike to help you plan your hike. Scale: 1 is easy 10 is hard.
Burgess Falls State Park – Cookeville, TN
This park features four waterfalls and several hiking trails, including the 1.5-mile round-trip River Trail that takes you to the base of the 136-foot Burgess Falls. There are also picnic areas and a fishing pier at the park. Difficulty: 3/10
Cummins Falls State Park – Cookeville, TN
The 2.5-mile round-trip hike to Cummins Falls is a popular destination for hikers, with the waterfall dropping 75 feet into a pool below. Note that swimming is allowed but can be dangerous, so proceed with caution. The park also has picnic areas, a playground, and swimming holes. Difficulty: 6/10
Fall Creek Falls State Park – Spencer, TN
This park has several hiking trails, including the 1.4-mile round-trip hike to Fall Creek Falls, which drops 256 feet into a gorge. The park also has several other waterfalls, including Cane Creek Falls and Piney Falls. There are cabins, campsites, and picnic areas available for overnight stays. Difficulty: 4/10
Rock Island State Park – Rock Island, TN
The park has a few different waterfall hikes, but the Caney Fork Gorge Trail is a popular 2.2-mile round-trip hike that takes you to the Great Falls, where the water drops 30 feet into a deep pool. The park also has a swimming beach and picnic areas. Difficulty: 5/10
Virgin Falls State Natural Area – Sparta, TN
The Virgin Falls trail is a more challenging 9-mile round-trip trail which takes you to Virgin Falls, which drops 110 feet into a cave before continuing down the mountain. Along the way, you’ll see several smaller waterfalls and beautiful rock formations. The natural area is remote and primitive, so be prepared for a rugged hike. Difficulty: 9/10
Machine Falls – Tullahoma, TN
Located in the 883-acre Short Springs Natural Area near Tullahoma, this 1.6-mile round-trip hike takes you to the picturesque Machine Falls, a 60-foot waterfall that cascades over rocks into a pool below. The trail is moderately easy, with some steep and rocky sections, and there are multiple viewing areas to take in the waterfall from different angles. The area is also popular for birdwatching and wildflower viewing, with a variety of species to see throughout the year. There are picnic tables and a playground near the trailhead. Difficulty: 4/10
Ozone Falls State Natural Area – Crossville, TN
The short 0.3-mile round-trip trail takes you to Ozone Falls, which drops 110 feet into a pool below. The hike is easy, but be cautious around the falls as the rocks can be slippery. There are picnic tables and restrooms at the trailhead. Difficulty: 2/10
Piney Falls State Natural Area – Spring City, TN
This 2.5-mile round-trip hike takes you to Piney Falls, which drops 80 feet into a pool below. Along the way, you’ll see several smaller waterfalls and a swinging bridge. There are picnic areas and restrooms at the trailhead. Difficulty: 3/10
Laurel-Snow State Natural Area – Dayton, TN
This 6.4-mile out-and-back hike in the Cherokee National Forest features two stunning waterfalls – Laurel Falls and Snow Falls – as well as a scenic gorge, rock formations, and old mining ruins. The trail is rated as moderately difficult, with some steep climbs, stream crossings, and narrow sections, but the stunning scenery and natural beauty make it well worth the effort. There are also camping and picnic areas available at the trailhead for those who want to make a weekend of it. Laurel Falls is an approximately 80 foot waterfall. The trail follows a creek and passes several smaller waterfalls along the way. The natural area is remote and primitive, so be prepared for a rugged hike. Difficulty: 8/10
Savage Gulf State Natural Area – Palmer, TN
This area has several hiking trails, including the 2.7-mile round-trip Savage Falls Trail, which takes you to Savage Falls, which drops 30 feet into a pool below. The natural area is remote and primitive, so be prepared for a rugged hike. There are picnic areas and restrooms at the trailhead. Difficulty: 6/10
Stillhouse Hollow Falls – Mount Pleasant, TN
Located in Maury County, this 1-mile round-trip hike takes you to Stillhouse Hollow Falls, a 75-foot waterfall that drops into a shallow pool below. The trail is easy and suitable for hikers of all skill levels, with benches along the way for resting and enjoying the scenery. The falls are particularly beautiful after a rainfall when the water flow is strong. There are picnic tables and restrooms at the trailhead, making this a great spot for a family outing or picnic. Difficulty: 2/10
Middle Tennessee is truly a hiker’s paradise, with its diverse terrain, stunning waterfalls, and beautiful natural areas to explore. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned hiker, there’s a trail that’s perfect for you. From the breathtaking beauty of Cummins Falls and Virgin Falls to the peaceful tranquility of Piney Falls and Stillhouse Hollow Falls, these hikes are a must-do for anyone who loves nature and the great outdoors. So go out, hit the trails, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Middle Tennessee!