14 Best Waterfalls in Tennessee

While you’re planning a trip to Tennessee—the state known for its depth of nature—you may want to check out some of its unmissable waterfall locations!

With over 325 waterfalls all over the state, you can tell it offers unlimited water streams.

But don’t worry, we’ve come up with some of the most mesmerizing waterfalls to help you choose the best one for you from the bests!

Make sure you enjoy the breathtaking scenery and make unforgettable memories in the falls!

Best Waterfalls in Tennessee

Ruby Falls

Ruby Falls
flickr/ Marty Barr

If you’re looking for an interesting outdoor adventure into the cave all to watch a waterfall, Ruby Falls is the one for you!

Situated in lookout mountain near Chattanooga, Tennessee, the 145 feet-long underground waterfall is a great tourist attraction.

The way to the stunning fall is through the caverns, as it is located at the end of the Ruby Falls Cave.

You can take a guided tour by well-informed and friendly tour guides who will provide you with an interesting back story of Ruby falls that you might enjoy.

Make sure you wear non-slip closed footwear as it can get slippery and wet in the cave!

Tips: Purchase your tickets online in advance to avoid the crowd; the tickets get sold out pretty fast.

The Falls of Old Stone Fort State Park

The Falls of Old Stone Fort State Park
flickr/ G Edelman

Visit the Old Stone Fort State Park to witness not only one but ten different waterfalls, all located in Coffee County, the central part of Tennessee.

Stop and admire the variety of falls as you walk along the trail in this peaceful and beautiful area.

If you like nature and hiking, you will love exploring this park with plenty of beauty and history to intake.

The views of the falls are breathtaking in any season, but especially during spring and fall!  

Burgess Falls

Burgess Falls
flickr/ Donnie King

Burgess Falls is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful natural areas in Tennessee!

The cascading water stream named after a Revolutionary War Veteran is located at Burgess Falls State Park in Putnam County.

You are required to take a 5-mile-long trail on the gravel road to witness the 136 feet tall, beautiful Burgess waterfall.

Enjoy the stunning full view of the fall from the lookout spot that you will find in the park. 

However, visitors are prohibited from taking the path leading to the waterfall’s bottom as it is a restricted area.

You can also find a fascinating old suspension bridge that is across the water!

Tips: If you still wish to enjoy the bottom view of the fall, you can go boating on the water or kayaking, which is the only way available!

Laurel Falls

Laurel Falls
flickr/ Bill

Laurel Falls is a remarkable tourist attraction led by a 1.2 miles long trail in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

The trail is an easy hike, but the pavement on the way to the falls becomes rough as you get closer.

However, the spectacular view of the 80 feet tall falls will be rewarding and worth a couple of hour hike.

Tips: The beautiful park is a popular destination, making it very crowded; you are recommended to visit either early in the morning or late in the afternoon on a weekday.

Cummins Falls

Cummins Falls
flickr/ Michael Hicks

The eighth largest waterfall in Tennessee is the Cummins Falls in Jackson County.

Flowing on the Blackburn Fork River is a 75 feet long waterfall that can be a great outdoor space for swimming and family picnics.

It has a moderately rough trail for an easy hike but has a lot of slippery big rocks you should keep an eye on!

The scenic breathtaking full view of the waterfall and nature will not disappoint you!

Tips: Come prepared to a slippery and splashy area with a bathing suit, towels, and water shoes!

Coon Creek Falls

Coon Creek Falls
flickr/ Chuck Sutherland

The spectacular Coon Creek Falls is one of the many falls found in the Fall Creek Falls State Park, located near Spencer.

Coon Creek is a unique seasonal waterfall that can only be witnessed during the rainy season but has a picturesque view throughout all year.

The gorgeous 250 feet waterfall and the beautiful surrounding area make it a wonderful visit for you if you are right around the corner!

Tips: Visiting shortly after the rain or during will make it even more worthwhile!

Ozone Falls

Ozone Falls
flickr/ Jim Frye

The Ozone Falls is a beautiful waterfall situated along Fall Creek in Cumberland County, Tennessee.

It takes place in the Ozone Falls State Natural Area and Cumberland Trail State Park; you can take a short but a bit challenging trail that will guide you to the Ozone Falls.

Starting the hike from the top of the falls, you will witness some of the most mesmerizing views while on your way to the bottom.

The top part of the falls is magnificent however, without the rails on edge, be careful with the kids as it can be a little terrifying.

Fun Fact: Some iconic scenes from the popular children’s movie Jungle book were filmed here!

Machine Falls

Machine Falls
flickr/ Dave Edens

Take the 1.6-mile round-trip loop trail at Short Springs State Natural Area to witness the beautiful and wide Machine Falls in Coffee County.

If you are looking for a family-friendly hike to see a waterfall, visit the state park, an hour and a half away from Nashville, Tennessee.

It has clear and cold water and offers breathtaking scenery both from the bottom view of the falls and from the top lookout.

The hike to the falls can be considered easy and suitable for both Adults and Kids; the right-side trail from the parking lot has arrows marked leading the way, but it is a longer path.

Taking a left will be a shorter hike, but it is a challenging path with no railings—it is not recommended for visitors who plan to bring their kids along.

As it is a loop trail, there is no need to fear getting lost!

Carmac Falls

Carmac Falls
flickr/ Bill Hamilton

Carmac Falls is located at Evins Mill in Smithville, which unlike other public natural areas, is a resort on private property.

To enjoy the scenic waterfall, one is required to book a stay at the resort.

As the guests can get full access to the falls, others can take a day package that includes lunch, entry to trails and the falls, and much more for personal entertainment.

The hike is a bit rocky, and you also get to wander around the fishing pond; fishing is available for those permitted to the area.

Spruce Flats Falls

Spruce Flats Falls
flickr/ Kevin Stewart Photography

The trailhead that leads you to the beautiful Spruce Flats Falls in Tremont begins from behind the cabins and visitor center.

The 1.4 miles roundtrip hike is moderately challenging but is suitable for visitors of all ages. 

It won’t take you more than an hour to finish the trail, and the difficulty of the hike usually depends on the weather as well.

The hiking trail to the falls has lots of rocks, twisted trees, and high-stepping rocks, which can be a fun and tricky challenge for kids. 

You will be elated with a satisfying end—a stunning 30 feet tall refreshing waterfall, deep enough to jump in and swim! 

Conasauga Falls

Conasauga Falls
flickr/ rjcox

In the Cherokee National Forest near Tellico Plains, you can find the beautiful Conasauga Falls!

To witness the scenic lovely views of the falls, you’ll have to take a short hike of about a half mile.

It is an easy and pleasant hike, and the place is never crowded, so visitors are recommended to hike to the bottom part. 

The path is much easier while going down than coming back, as it is all uphill. 

Take a bottle of water along with lunch or snacks to munch in peaceful surroundings, and don’t forget to wear good hiking shoes. 

Note: Avoid this if you cannot drive on mountain roads or are not going on a high car like a jeep. 

Bald River Falls

Bald River Falls
flickr/ Russ

If you are someone who is not into hiking but is only interested in watching the waterfall, then this 90-foot-tall waterfall is the perfect destination for you.

Bald River Falls is a top-rated tourist attraction for its gorgeous natural surroundings.

The visitor-friendly place is very convenient as the waterfall is right beside the parking area, making it easier for people who are here just for a glimpse of it. 

You can take a short hike up to the top of the falls and feel the icy cold water.

To enjoy the scenic waterfall, you can also watch it from the bridge. 

Cane Creek Cascades

Cane Creek Cascades
flickr/ jimrolfesjr

The 45 feet tall Cane Creek Falls is another beautiful waterfall in Fall Creek Falls State Park. 

You can start by visiting the nature center at the beginning of the trail. 

Located in Spencer, it takes a short and easy walk into the natural area to reach the destination. 

You can enjoy the breathtaking views of the magnificent waterfall from the well-maintained suspension bridge. 

Visitors prefer to stand underneath the waterfall for an unforgettable experience! 

Note: Make sure to get information regarding the opening time of the gate beforehand that changes time and again.

Cataract Falls

Cataract Falls
flickr/ linda_lou2

Cataract Falls is one of the many falls you can find in the Smoky Mountains National Park.

The trail to the falls is just 10 minutes away from Downtown Gatlinburg

Along the way, you will delve into dense greenery; the trail is marked and well-maintained, suitable and easy walk for everyone. 

The peaceful and beautiful place offers gorgeous sceneries, which gets better as you delve deeper! 

Depending on the change of seasons, visitors will always have something new to see here.

Tips: Plan a trip right after a rainfall if you are visiting during a dryer season 

Follow the Footsteps and Feel the Freshness! 

Feeling indecisive is totally understandable! —with this many choices, anyone can find it difficult to find the right one for a rewarding sight. 

However, we would like to remind you that any water stream or river location you decide to visit will be worthwhile.

Every waterfall featured here has its own unique and magnificent touch to it that you won’t regret visiting, even if you decide to pick one randomly!

Don’t forget to carry some waterproof hiking boots or water shoes and snacks, and lots of water to stay hydrated while near the water.

Get ready for a remarkable adventure by enjoying the most spectacular day close to nature.

Note: Keep in mind that information about travel can change quickly. To make sure your trip is fun and safe, we encourage you to double-check official websites and government/travel advisory sites for the latest information on travel restrictions, entry requirements, and safety measures.