In this post, I’ll share the misty trails, rocky cliffs, and thunderous drops that define Tennessee’s waterfalls. Where Appalachian beauty flows wild and free. Waterfalls in Tennessee offer stunning hikes, dramatic drops, and peaceful forest escapes perfect for your next outdoor adventure.
Highlights:
Unique Waterfalls
1. Virgin Falls and Big Laurel Falls - 2 hours from Chattanooga
Rating: ★★★★★
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Location:
Sparta, TNHighlights:
Just a short drive from Chattanooga, Virgin Falls and Big Laurel Falls offer an unforgettable hiking experience through one of Tennessee’s most unique geological landscapes. This trail is perfect for waterfall lovers and geology buffs alike.Recommended For:
Hikers, geology enthusiasts, nature photographers, and anyone looking for a full-day scenic adventure.What I Love: ♥
The mysterious karst terrain, underground streams, and the dramatic 110-foot plunge of Virgin Falls.- Hike a 9-mile loop through Virgin Falls Pocket Wilderness, filled with forested paths and unique rock features.
- Reach Big Laurel Falls after about 2 miles—where the trail winds around a massive cave mouth.
- Explore underground water systems and limestone formations shaped by centuries of erosion.
- Stand in awe of Virgin Falls, where Big Branch Creek briefly surfaces before plunging 110 feet and disappearing underground again.
- Discover a cenote, small waterfalls, and hidden springs throughout the trail—perfect for adventurers and photographers.
Cost:
Free to access.Best time to visit:
Spring and early summer for strong water flow and wildflower blooms.Local tips:
Wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring plenty of water—it’s an easy but long trail with some rocky, wet terrain.Distance:
About 2 hours from Chattanooga, TN.How to Get to Virgin Falls:
From Sparta, take Highway 70 East to Eastland Road. Follow signs to Scott’s Gulf Road, where you’ll find the trailhead and parking for Virgin Falls Trail.Address:
Virgin Falls Trail, Sparta, TN 385832. Hen Wallow Falls - 1 hour from Gatlinburg
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Location:
Gatlinburg, TNHighlights:
For a moderately challenging hike with stunning forest views and a dramatic payoff, Hen Wallow Falls is a standout in the Great Smoky Mountains. You’ll hike through rhododendrons and towering hemlocks before reaching this hidden, 90-foot beauty.Recommended For:
Hikers, wildlife spotters, photographers, and visitors wanting a quieter, off-the-beaten-path waterfall trail.What I Love: ♥
The narrow-to-wide plunge, winter freeze-overs, and chances to see black bears or salamanders along the way.- Start at the Cosby Picnic Area and follow the Gabes Mountain Trail for a 4.4-mile roundtrip hike.
- Navigate steep switchbacks on the final approach to the base of the falls—worth every step!
- Watch Hen Wallow Creek drop 90 feet from just two feet wide at the top to 20 feet wide at the base.
- Spot salamanders in the spray zone or, if you're lucky, a black bear from a safe distance.
- Visit in winter to witness the falls frozen into an enchanting icy column.
Cost:
Free to access with standard Great Smoky Mountains National Park entry.Best time to visit:
Spring and early fall for lush surroundings; winter for a unique frozen waterfall view.Local tips:
Bring hiking poles for the steeper sections, and pack out everything—this is a backcountry area with no facilities.Distance:
About 1 hour from Gatlinburg, TN.How to Get to Hen Wallow Falls:
From Gatlinburg, head east on US-321 to Cosby. Turn into the Cosby entrance of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and follow signs to the Cosby Picnic Area and Gabes Mountain Trailhead.Address:
107 Park Headquarters Road, Gatlinburg, TN 37738Phone: 865-436-1200
Romantic Waterfalls
3. Ramsey Cascades - 25 minutes from Gatlinburg
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Location:
Great Smoky Mountains National Park, TNHighlights:
Ready to conquer the tallest waterfall in the Smokies? Ramsey Cascades is a must-see—reached by a forest-filled 4-mile hike that leads to one of the most breathtaking scenes in the park.Recommended For:
Experienced hikers, waterfall photographers, Smokies enthusiasts, and those seeking a rewarding full-day trek.What I Love: ♥
The towering cascade spilling over massive boulders, the scenic old-growth hardwood forest, and the sense of achievement at the end of this iconic trail.- Hike 4 miles (8 miles roundtrip) through lush, mature forest with towering trees and vibrant plant life.
- Climb nearly 2,000 feet in elevation, with most of the steep terrain in the final stretch.
- Reach Ramsey Cascades—where water drops over 1,000 feet across rock ledges in a dramatic, multi-tiered display.
- Marvel at one of the crown jewels of the park, a favorite for serious hikers and waterfall lovers alike.
- Start your adventure at the Greenbrier entrance, just 6 miles from Gatlinburg.
Cost:
Free with park entry; standard access rules for Great Smoky Mountains National Park apply.Best time to visit:
Spring and early summer for peak water flow and wildflowers; fall for colorful foliage.Local tips:
Bring plenty of water, wear sturdy hiking shoes, and allow 5–7 hours for the full hike with rest time at the falls.Distance:
About 25 minutes from Gatlinburg, TN.How to Get to Ramsey Cascades:
From Gatlinburg, take US-321 to Greenbrier Road (Park Entrance). Follow signs for Ramsey Cascades Trailhead about 6 miles into the park.Address:
Near intersection of Highway 73 and Hwy 416, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee4. Indian Flats Falls - 40 minutes from downtown Gatlinburg
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Location:
Gatlinburg, TNHighlights:
If you’re up for an unforgettable trek filled with waterfalls, wildflowers, and a bit of Smoky Mountain history, the hike to Indian Flats Falls via the Middle Prong Trail is a must. It’s one of the park’s most scenic trails—rewarding hikers with three major waterfalls and plenty of peaceful forest views.Recommended For:
Waterfall enthusiasts, wildflower lovers, day hikers, and history buffs.What I Love: ♥
The three-tiered Indian Flats Falls, wildflower-filled forest, and glimpses of Tremont’s logging-era past.- Hike 8 miles roundtrip along the former logging railroad route now known as Middle Prong Trail.
- Pass three major waterfalls and countless smaller cascades on your way through this vibrant forest corridor.
- Admire spring and summer wildflowers including trilliums, violets, foamflower, and more.
- Discover remnants of the old Tremont lumber town scattered along the trail—rustic and fascinating.
- Marvel at Indian Flats Falls, a stunning three-tier waterfall totaling about 60 feet in drop, with the tallest tier at around 20 feet.
Cost:
Free with entry to Great Smoky Mountains National Park.Best time to visit:
Spring for wildflowers and flowing falls; fall for foliage; early morning to avoid summer crowds.Local tips:
Bring plenty of water and watch your footing on technical sections—this trail can be slick and rocky in places.Distance:
About 40 minutes from downtown Gatlinburg, TN.How to Get to Middle Prong Trail:
From Gatlinburg, take Little River Road to Tremont Road, follow the road past the Tremont Institute, and continue to the end of the gravel road where the Middle Prong Trailhead begins.Address:
Gatlinburg, TN 37738Waterfalls for Families
5. Grotto Falls - 15 minutes from downtown Gatlinburg
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Location:
Gatlinburg, TNHighlights:
Want to walk behind a waterfall? Grotto Falls is the only one in the Smokies that lets you do just that! This serene 25-foot cascade is tucked along a lush forest trail and is especially magical during spring wildflower season.Recommended For:
Families, wildflower lovers, moderate hikers, and anyone looking for a unique waterfall experience.What I Love: ♥
The chance to walk behind the falls, abundant spring blooms, and the peaceful, shaded forest along the trail.- Hike 3 miles roundtrip along the Trillium Gap Trail, starting from the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail.
- Climb gradually through a hemlock-rich forest, gaining 585 feet in elevation along the way.
- Admire spring wildflowers like white violets, trilliums, and stitchwort as they carpet the forest floor.
- Cross small, picturesque streams before arriving at the 25-foot cascade—where you can actually walk behind the waterfall curtain!
- Enjoy the cool, misty air and moss-covered rocks that make this a refreshing spot on warmer days.
Cost:
Free with standard park entry; Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail access is also free.Best time to visit:
Spring for peak wildflower blooms and strong water flow; early morning to avoid crowds.Local tips:
The trail can be wet and slippery—wear sturdy shoes and bring a small towel if you plan to cool off behind the falls.Distance:
About 15 minutes from downtown Gatlinburg, TN.How to Get to Grotto Falls:
From Gatlinburg, take the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail (one-way, seasonal). Look for signs for Trillium Gap Trail; parking is available nearby, but it fills quickly.Address:
Trillium Gap Trail, Gatlinburg, TN 37738Phone: 865-436-1291
6. Fern Branch Falls
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Location:
Great Smoky Mountains National Park, TNHighlights:
If you're looking for a hidden gem deep in the Smokies, Fern Branch Falls is a peaceful and rewarding find. Tucked into a steep ravine off Porters Creek Trail, it’s a quiet spot filled with forest charm, wildflowers, and a bit of Smoky Mountain history.Recommended For:
Solitude seekers, photographers, wildflower lovers, casual hikers, and those who enjoy a touch of adventure.What I Love: ♥
The unmarked, off-the-beaten-path feel, mossy rocks, wildflower-filled trail, and the history scattered along the way.- Hike 4 miles roundtrip along the Porters Creek Trail, through shady forest and peaceful streamside scenery.
- Pass historic landmarks like Messer Farm, the Smoky Mountain Hiking Club Cabin, and Ownby Cemetery.
- Admire spring wildflowers blanketing the forest floor and fish in the clear streams along the route.
- Scramble off trail a bit to find Fern Branch Falls—40 feet of water cascading down a moss-covered rock face in a secluded ravine.
- Enjoy the quiet atmosphere of this lesser-known trail, far from the park’s busier paths.
Cost:
Free with park entry.Best time to visit:
Spring for wildflowers and full water flow; fall for crisp air and colorful foliage.Local tips:
The falls are not marked—listen for water and watch for a faint path to the right after about 2 miles. Hiking poles can help with the scramble down.Distance:
About 30 minutes from downtown Gatlinburg, TN.How to Get to Fern Branch Falls:
From Gatlinburg, take US-321 to Greenbrier Road. Follow the road to the Porters Creek Trailhead and begin your hike along the gravel path through the Greenbrier section of the park.Address:
107 Park Headquarters Rd, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, TNFalls For Photographers
7. Laurel-Snow Falls - 1 hour and 10 minutes from Chattanooga
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Location:
Dayton, TNHighlights:
Looking for a rugged hike packed with history, waterfalls, and epic views? Laurel Falls and Snow Falls in the Laurel-Snow State Natural Area deliver all that and more across deep forest coves and the stunning ridges of the Cumberland Plateau.Recommended For:
Experienced hikers, nature photographers, history lovers, and those chasing both waterfalls and scenic overlooks.What I Love: ♥
The 80-foot Laurel Falls, remote Snow Falls, 300-degree views from Buzzard Point, and the quiet ruins that whisper tales from the past.- Hike along Richland Creek for 1.5 miles past old mines, a reservoir, and blue holes.
- Take the right fork to follow Laurel Creek up to the towering 80-foot Laurel Falls, a showstopper after rains.
- Branch left to Snow Falls, a beautiful 35-foot cascade tucked into forest, and climb to Buzzard Point for sweeping plateau views.
- Explore historic relics, cool creek crossings, and shady forest cover along the entire trail.
- Challenge yourself on steep switchbacks—this hike has some strenuous sections, but the rewards are huge.
Cost:
Free to access.Best time to visit:
Spring and early summer for strong water flow and cool hiking weather; fall for foliage and long-range views.Local tips:
Bring plenty of water and wear good shoes—the trail gets rocky, and both forks can be slick near the falls.Distance:
About 1 hour and 10 minutes from Chattanooga, TN.How to Get to Laurel and Snow Falls:
From Dayton, take Highway 30 to Back Valley Road, then turn onto Pockett Wilderness Road to reach the trailhead parking area for Laurel-Snow State Natural Area.Address:
1098 Pockett Wilderness Rd, Dayton, TN 373218. Stinging Fork Falls - 1 hour and 20 minutes from Chattanooga
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Location:
Spring City, TNHighlights:
For a peaceful hike with a big reward at the end, Stinging Fork Falls is a hidden gem in East Tennessee. This lush trail leads you through a quiet forest and down into a rocky gorge where a beautiful 35-foot waterfall plunges into a cool, clear pool.Recommended For:
Waterfall hikers, nature lovers, solo trekkers, and those seeking a short but moderately challenging trail with scenic payoff.What I Love: ♥
The peaceful woods, mossy terrain, a surprise overlook, and the plunge of the falls into a serene swimming hole.- Hike the Stinging Fork Falls Trail through shaded forest and along a stream surrounded by moss-covered rocks.
- Take the fork to either the scenic overlook or the waterfall itself—both are worth the detour.
- Descend steep switchbacks to reach the base of the falls—an energizing drop of 35 feet over a rocky ledge into a natural pool.
- Relax by the water or take a moment to soak in the peaceful surroundings—this spot is less crowded than many others.
Cost:
Free to visit.Best time to visit:
Spring and early summer for strong flow and green foliage; fall offers crisp air and colorful views from the overlook.Local tips:
Wear sturdy shoes—the trail down to the falls is steep and can be slippery, especially after rain. Bring water and take your time on the descent.Distance:
About 1 hour and 20 minutes from Chattanooga, TN.How to Get to Stinging Fork Falls:
From Spring City, head north on Shut In Gap Road. Look for the signed parking area at the trailhead for Stinging Fork Falls State Natural Area.Address:
9000 Shut in Gap Rd, Spring City, TN 37381-7402Waterfalls for Hikers
9. Margarette Falls - 1 hour and 30 minutes from Knoxville
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Location:
Greeneville, TNHighlights:
Tucked away in Cherokee National Forest, Margarette Falls is a stunning 60-foot fan-shaped cascade that rewards hikers with a scenic and immersive trek through a lush gorge filled with history and rushing water.Recommended For:
Casual hikers, nature photographers, waterfall chasers, and those who enjoy a bit of adventure with creek crossings and rocky terrain.What I Love: ♥
The mossy boulders, multiple cascades, creek crossings, and the wide, dramatic spread of water at the base of the gorge.- Begin your hike on an old Forest Service road that once led to a busy logging camp—an easy half-mile to warm up.
- Wander through towering rock formations and a narrow gorge with lush vegetation and constant water sounds.
- Cross the creek four times en route to the falls—waterproof shoes or careful steps are a must!
- Arrive at Margarette Falls: a 60-foot fan-shaped waterfall that combines cascading and plunging water into one breathtaking display.
Cost:
Free to access.Best time to visit:
Spring and early summer for best water flow; fall for cool temps and colorful foliage.Local tips:
The trail can be slick—especially near the creek crossings. Bring trekking poles and wear grippy footwear for the rocky, mossy terrain.Distance:
About 1 hour and 30 minutes from Knoxville, TN.How to Get to Margarette Falls:
From Greeneville, take Highway 107 to Shelton Mission Road. The trailhead and small parking area are located near the end of the road.Address:
1362 Shelton Mission Rd, Greeneville, TN 3774310. Emory Gap Falls - 1 hour and 15 minutes from Knoxville
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Location:
Wartburg, TNHighlights:
If you're looking for an easy and scenic hike the whole family can enjoy, Emory Gap Falls in Frozen Head State Park is a perfect choice. This forested trail leads to not one, but two beautiful waterfalls surrounded by wildflowers and shady woodland paths.Recommended For:
Families, casual hikers, dog walkers, nature lovers, and those looking for a peaceful half-day escape.What I Love: ♥
The double waterfall reward, ease of the hike, wildflower-lined trails, and serene forest setting.- Start at the Panther Branch trailhead, and enjoy a gentle trail suitable for kids, seniors, and pups on a leash.
- Stop first at 12-foot Debord Falls—a short detour on the right side with stairs leading to the base of the falls.
- Continue to the split where the Emory Gap Trail branches off, leading you to the star attraction.
- Admire Emory Gap Falls as it tumbles 24 feet in stages—over a rock edge, onto boulders, and finally into a plunge pool tucked inside a rock house.
- Wander through wildflower-filled woods and shady creekside stretches perfect for spring and early summer strolls.
Cost:
Free to enter and hike.Best time to visit:
Spring for wildflowers and water flow; fall for vibrant colors and cool air.Local tips:
Trails can be muddy after rain—wear good hiking shoes. Bring a picnic for the tables near the Panther Branch trailhead.Distance:
About 1 hour and 15 minutes from Knoxville, TN.How to Get to Emory Gap Falls:
From Wartburg, take Flat Fork Road to the Frozen Head State Park Visitor Center. Trailhead parking for Panther Branch Trail is located nearby.Address:
964 Flat Fork Rd, Wartburg, TN 37887-3208Phone: 423-346-3318
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