BALD RIVER FALLS

Description

The most easily accessible "must see" waterfall near Chattanooga occurs where Bald River joins the Tellico River. Just before the two rivers merge, Bald River tumbles about 80 feet over some rock outcroppings creating a very impressive whitewater falls. The view is stunning, even if you never leave your car. Parking is just over the bridge (where everyone shoots a picture) and a trail to the top of the falls starts at the end of the parking area.

Location

From the town of Tellico Plains, drive East on State Road 165 for a little over 5 miles before a brown sign proclaiming "Bald River Falls" will lead you to turn right onto Forest Service Road 210. The falls is unmistakable about 6 miles down this beautiful, winding road.

USGS Map: Bald River Falls; USFS Map: Cherokee National Forest, Southern District

What's Special

Bald River Falls, alone, is worth making this trip, but another falls lies just a quarter mile or so further up the road. Baby Falls is small, but is a "playpen" for kayakers and swimmers. By the way, unbelievably, apparently some kayakers run Bald River Falls.... or at least a portion of the falls. Several miles further up the road is a trout hatchery where fisherman can salivate over some really large fish...... but no hooks allowed. Because of its beauty and ease of access, the drive up FS 210 is ideal for the elderly and those who need attractions that are close to the car.

Best Season

Like all of the Tellico region, this area is at its colorful peak in the fall, but because of the easy access to natural swimming pools...... these spots are packed in the summer.

Facilities

Sometimes there are port-o-lets at Bald River Falls.

Nearby Attractions

The Cherohala Skyway (State Road 165) offers a beautiful drive to NC.
Numerous hiking trails and ATV trails are nearby. Consult a NFS map for detailed information.

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BENTON FALLS

Description

The Cherokee National Forest is wonderful playground for kayaking, swimming, mtn. biking, camping, shooting and many other outdoor pursuits. One of the forest's premier attractions is the Chilhowee Mountain Campground and Benton Falls. The falls is about 50 feet high and offers a pleasant wading area below. The trail to the base of the falls is steep, but short, and well worth the effort.

Location

From US 64 East, go just past the Ranger Station to a left turn onto Forest Service Road 77 (a sign clearly marks the "Chilhowee Recreation Area") and proceed up the mountain several miles to a well marked parking area and campground access. This area does have a parking fee.

USGS Map: Oswald Dome; USFS Map: Cherokee National Forest, Southern District

What's Special

Benton Falls is wonderful destination for those who choose to camp at the Chilhowee Campground. Though crowded, the area offers something for everyone. Swimming, mtn. bike trails, hiking trails, and Benton Falls are all VERY close by and the whitewater of the Ocoee River is about 10 miles away. Mtn. bikers are treated to some extraordinary climbing and trails in this area.

Best Season

The place is crowded on weekends in the summer. Swimmers, hikers, families, mtn. bikers, church groups. The place is a good cross-section of folks.

Facilities

There are facilities at the Chilhowee Swimming Area and Campground.

Nearby Attractions

The Ocoee River and its legendary whitewater is at the foot of the mountain.
There are MANY trails/forest roads in this area, so mtn. bikers should simply love the place.

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COKER CREEK FALLS

Description

Though the roads to this falls are rugged, this area is a beautiful series of cascades that provide a wonderful place to wade, swim, picnic, and hike. While many people visit and play in the falls, few hike the 2+ mile trail along this creek. It is a wonderful summer hike.

Location

From Ducktown (US 64 east of the Ocoee), proceed north on State Road 68 about 7 miles past the Hiwassee River bridge to Monroe County Road 628 and turn left. After about 3/4 mile, Duckett Ridge Road 22 will be signed for "Coker Creek Falls." Continue down this road, bearing right at a Y, for about 3 miles to a left turn onto Forest Service Road 2138 which ends at the parking area. Some of these roads are pretty rough with large rocks and steep grades; cars =can= make this trip, but it is not for everyone.

USGS Map: McFarland, TN; USFS Map: Cherokee National Forest, Southern District

What's Special

Coker Creek is listed as a Scenic Area and is given special protection by the Forest Service. The area is so scenic and so pleasant that it is easy to see why. MANY varieties of trees and flowers are along the trail that passes by the falls. The area around the falls provides easy places to simply sit and soak. It has areas that are very safe for kids and some places deep enough for adults to swim.

Best Season

This area is perfect for the hottest summer days. The forest provides a nice canopy along the trail and the water is always cold. This area is magnificent for blooming flora in the Spring also.

Facilities

There are picnic tables near the parking area, but no toilet facilities.

Nearby Attractions

The Hiwassee River is nearby providing fishing, picnicking, and swimming.
Buck Bald provides panoramic views of the area, especially nice in the fall.

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DeSOTO FALLS

Description

This is another "must see" waterfall. Besides a beautiful little dam, the 100+ foot waterfall is stunning. The area is perfect for wading and pictures.

Location

Though the prettiest way to get to DeSoto Falls is travel along the top of Lookout Mountain (Ga 157 S) until you see signs for Mentone, most people will prefer to take I-59 (toward Birmingham) to Fort Payne (exit 231) and proceed up the mountain on Ala 117 to the signs for DeSoto Falls and the state park. The park and the falls are =not= on the same road, so be sure to watch carefully.

What's Special

DeSoto Falls is a tremendous sight. It's a powerful falls which has cut a large amphitheater into the rock. The hearty can rappel, the timid can wade above the falls, the kids can swim above the dam, and the whole group can enjoy DeSoto Falls State Park nearby. Don't miss the little country restaurant in Mentone.

Best Season

In the hot, humid, unbearable days of August, DeSoto Falls will make you feel better. Whether you wade or just watch the water, you're bound to feel cooler.

Facilities

There are restrooms at the falls parking area, and DeSoto State Park has a number of amenities.

Nearby Attractions

Little River Canyon (follow the signs from DeSoto State Park) is a "hidden" treasure. Kayakers will find gnarly water, climbers will find cliffs, bird watchers will find hawks, swimmers will find a waterfall to play in, and the rest of us will find solitude.

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EDWARDS POINT

Description

Edwards Point is a beautiful rock outcropping which offers a spectacular look off into the Tennessee River Gorge. It is also a popular mountain biking destination and a stop along the Cumberland Trail State Park (TN's first "linear" State Park). Starting from well-known Signal Point, the hike is close by and a good introduction to day hiking.

Location

The prettiest way to get to Edwards Point is by taking the 4 mile (one-way) hike from Signal Point down the Cumberland Trail, across Middle Creek (I helped build the bridge!) and up to Signal Point. Sure, it's quite a hike, but it is worth a day and there are several places to stop, rest, look off the bluff, and such. You can reach Signal Point by climbing Taft Hwy to the top of Signal Mtn, turning left quickly left again (at Pastaria) following the signs to Signal Point.

Those who wish to bike to Edwards Point should continue on until Timberlinks Drive veers to the left near the golf course. Continue down Timberlinks until it becomes Edwards Point Road and keep going several miles. Currently, the road has been repaved, so there are few signs, but near the top of a hill on a "new" section of road is an unmarked left turn which you should take. Continue about 2 more miles where a "Hunter's Lodge" appears on the right. Park there if you are biking and the road/trail begins about 50 yards back up the road. Local ATV riders and pick-ups tend to congregate just a few hundred yards in the woods, though I'm told the area will be closed to vehicular traffic VERY soon.

What's Special

Edwards Point provides a great spot to get in a quick ride after work or to spend a nice lunch on a full day of hiking. The view is beautiful, the hike or bike is cool and relaxing. It makes a nice "halfway" point if you are ambitious enough to hike the Cumberland Trail from Signal Point to the Prentice Cooper State Forest/Wildlife Management parking area.

Best Season

The Fall is "show time" for this area because the view is alive with color then. The biking is great when the heat is not so bad. Those who are hiking may want to visit in the Spring when wildflowers are easily spotted on the trail.

Facilities

There is a seasonal bathroom available at Signal Point, (not Edwards Point).

Nearby Attractions

Signal Point and Rainbow Lake (which is near the Middle Creek bridge along the hike Edwards Point) are destinations themselves for many people. Various "local" trails in the area lead to tiny waterfalls and look offs. Just wander around and explore the side trails, most lead to something interesting. There is a small "camping shelter" just off the trail from Middle Creek up to Edwards Point and it is a popular spot for young campers in this area.

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FALLS BRANCH FALLS

Description

Falls Branch Falls is one of the "secrets" of the Chattanooga Area. Its remote location and distance from Chattanooga (or anywhere else) probably are why few folks know of it, but it is WELL worth the trip. When flowing with all its glory, this approximately 60ft waterfall rivals Fall Creek and Virgin Falls, in my opinion, as the prettiest/most alluring waterfall in TN. The bonus for those who make the trip is the gorgeous drive. Even if you don't feel up to hiking to the falls, drive along the Cherohala Skyway (designated as a National Scenic Byway) which is known as one of the most scenic drives in America.

Location

Falls Branch Falls is located on TN 165 also known as the "Cherohala Skyway" which runs from Tellico Plains to Robinsville NC. The trailhead is at an unmarked "scenic viewpoint" parking area about 18 miles from where the Skyway branches off from the Tellico River Road (which runs to Bald River Falls). It's easy to miss, but if you reach the NC state line, you've gone too far and need to backtrack about 1.5 miles to the parking area. The trailhead is at a corner of the parking area and actually serves 2 trails; the trails fork a couple of hundred yards down the path; take the left fork (FS Trail #87). The trail is about 1.5 miles long (one way) and is pretty easy to follow.

USGS Map: Big Junction; USFS Map: Cherokee National Forest, Southern District; Joyce Kilmer/Slickrock & Citico Creek Wilderness Map

What's Special

Not only is the drive amazingly beautiful, the hike to the falls goes into the Citico Creek Wilderness which contains some incredible virgin timber and unspoiled beauty. There are massive hemlocks along the way and much of the trail is under the "canopy" of the forest. The falls is breathtaking and makes a wonderful place to wade and contemplate why you don't hike to more places like this.

Best Season

The drive along the Cherohala Skyway gets A LOT of traffic during the Fall "leaf changing" season and, of course, it is extraordinarily beautiful when the color is in the trees, but the drive is fabulous any time. The 5000+ elevation makes for great views.  The falls itself is somewhat seasonal (though always running some), so it is best to visit when there has been some rain. Those braver than me have said that the trip to the falls is a spiritual experience when snow and ice surround it.

Facilities

Facilities are available in Tellico Plains, at the Indian Boundary Campground (along the Skyway), and there are plans for "rest areas" along the Skyway.

Nearby Attractions

Bald River Falls, the Cherohala Skyway, and numerous 4x4, mtn bike, and hiking trails abound in the area. Get a Cherokee National Forest Map and/or a Joyce Kilmer/Slickrock and Citico Creek Wilderness Map for detailed information about trails in the area.

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FOSTER FALLS

Description

Foster Falls is designated a "Small Wild Area" and is jointly owned/managed by TVA and the South Cumberland State Recreation Area. Besides an easily accessible view of the 60+ foot waterfall, the area has some beautiful trails and some of the best rock climbing ledges in the Southeast. This area is accessible to almost everyone since the walk from the parking area to the first overlook is about 1/4 mile and flat.

Location

From Chattanooga, take I-24 North (toward Nashville) to the Jasper exit and follow US 41 North thru Jasper. As you leave "metropolitan Jasper" US 41 will turn left toward Tracy City. There are also signs for Foster Falls. Take left turn into the falls parking area approximately 8 miles north of Jasper.

USGS Map: White City; Cumberland State Recreation Area Map

What's Special

The fact that the falls are easily viewed, the picnic area is usually empty, and the trails are relatively flat (considering the location) makes this area nice for the "novice" hiker and families. Those who want the challenge can hike some longer trails and even camp in some places well away from the falls itself. The rock climbing in the area is nationally renown and it is not unusual to meet climbers from across the country who have come to test their skill on these walls.

Best Season

Every season offers a different type of beauty. The falls, as you might expect, are the strongest in the fall and winter, but the water runs well there almost all the time.

Facilities

There are facilities "for campers only" in the developed campground.

Nearby Attractions

A little "hidden treasure" awaits near Tracy City in the form of Grundy Lakes State Park. It isn't big, but it is a peaceful place to have a nice picnic with the family on a really pretty little lake.

The entire South Cumberland State Recreation Area is an amazing resource of beauty and variety in Chattanooga's "backyard."

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JACKS RIVER FALLS

Description

The Cohutta Wilderness is the home of MANY good hiking trails, beautiful streams, and wonderful mountain views. Easily the most frequently visited area in this wilderness is Jacks River Falls. Despite the 4 mile hike to the falls, its beauty, power, and great swimming area draws a lot of visitors. The falls is series of a couple of small waterfalls, one large waterfall, and some cascades that are perfect for swimming.

Location

Unless you are very familiar with the area, consult an atlas to find Cisco, Ga. on US411. Near Cisco, at the intersection of Ga Hwy 2 and US411, go east toward the mountains on what will become FS16. Continue several miles on this road (which is curvy, gravel, and narrow) until you come to a suspension bridge across Jacks River. Immediately upon crossing the bridge, turn left onto FS221 for about 1 mile before turning right onto FS62. The parking area for the Beech Bottom Trail (to Jacks River Falls) is about 3.5 miles from the intersection of FS221 and FS62. During bad weather, FS62 is closed. BE ADVISED, these roads are steep, narrow and sometimes rutted. Cars can make it, but you will be better off in a truck.

USGS Map: Hemptop (Ga/Tn); USFS Map: The Cohutta Wilderness or The Chattahoochee National Forest

What's Special

Jacks River Falls is one of those "all day" excursions that every couple should do at least once. Those who enjoy camping will find a fine, though crowded, primitive campsite near the falls. The Cohutta Wilderness is a treasure of rugged terrain and beauty. There are wildflowers, huge trees, and solitude on many of the nearby trails. Swimming and "daredevil" diving into the splash pools are legendary. Even with the crowds, the trip should inspire you to explore the rest of the trails of the wilderness.

Best Season

In the summer, the falls are extremely popular. In the fall, the leaves are amazing in the wilderness. In the spring, the wildflowers put on a show that is magnificent. In the winter, the roads can be gated, but the beauty of the more accessible areas in the snow is breathtaking.

Facilities

The Cohutta Wilderness is a wilderness. There are no facilities. Facilities do exist in some areas of the Cohutta Wildlife Management Area nearby.

Nearby Attractions

The Cohutta Wildlife Management Area which virtually surrounds the wilderness is full of trails and campgrounds. Lake Conasauga is a personal favorite.

The Cohutta Wilderness and Big Frog Wilderness are precious, rugged areas. The trails in these areas are places of extreme beauty and extreme challenges.

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LITTLE RIVER FALLS

Description

 Little River Canyon is one of the most beautiful canyons.  The fabulous sound of the water rushing in this deep canyon, the hawks that frequently circle above, and the great forest around it make it a great contrast to the dry canyons of the southwest. The falls is easily accessible to everyone and, after periods of rain, can be a noisy, impressive spectacle.

Location

Because of its proximity to DeSoto Falls, combining this trip with a trip to DeSoto Falls is a great idea. Also, because the preferred route goes through DeSoto Falls State Park, don't forget to stop at the welcome center, not only for the restroom, but also to see some impressive pictures of the area covered in snow and some exhibits of local wildlife and plants.

Though, like DeSoto Falls, traveling down Lookout Mountain to the area is by far the prettiest way to get to the falls, most people will prefer to take I-59 (toward Birmingham) to Fort Payne (exit 231) and proceed up the mountain on Ala 117 to the signs for DeSoto Falls State Park. Proceed toward and through the State Park to the intersection of Ala 35. Turn left and continue about 5.5 miles to the parking area on the right just after you cross a bridge over Little River.

USGS Map: Ft Payne (Al)

What's Special

The falls is beautiful, though somewhat seasonal, and unusual since it is on the top of a mountain. It is a perfect place to picnic before heading down Ala 176 (just before the bridge) for a tour of Little River Canyon. There is ample wading area and some brave folks will jump from the waterfall during periods of high water.

Best Season

The spring is a time of wonderful flowers and renewal in this area.

Facilities

The recently developed parking area includes facilities and ample parking. The trail to the top of the falls is quite safe now. Those wishing to photograph the falls from the bottom should also find it easier to approach now.

Nearby Attractions

The Little River Canyon is not to be missed.  There are numerous sandstone cliffs which lend themselves to climbers. DeSoto Falls is, of course, close by and the State Park affords comfortable camping and some nice trails into a very peaceful mountain area.

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OZONE FALLS

Description

Another "hidden" waterfall which is accessible to almost everyone, Ozone Falls lies just a couple of miles from I-40 and it is a 100+ foot waterfall with a nice basin and pool at the base. It is well worth the short drive from east from Crossville for anyone in the area.

Location

From I-40, take exit 329 and travel east on US70 about 4.5 miles to the parking area for Ozone Falls. The overlook of the falls is about 100 yards down a trail. For a better view, proceed down the steep bluff to the base of the falls.

USGS Map: Ozone, TN

What's Special

The temperature is about 10 degrees cooler at the base of the falls and the trip to the bottom is well worth the climb out. Those who want to boulder hop can find lots of fun downstream from the falls. Those who want to repel from the 100+ foot cliffs near the top of the falls will find plenty of company.

Best Season

This area is perfect for the spring, summer, and fall. The steep unprotected cliffs make it somewhat dangerous in the slick icy winter. The trees in the area are beautiful in the fall, so that would be my choice.

Facilities

The small town of Ozone/Crab Orchard offer some nice little convenience stores, but there are no facilities at the falls itself.

Nearby Attractions

The Cumberland Plateau and Cumberland Mountain State Park (in Crossville) are among the most scenic areas in the state. In the spring, when the wildflowers are blooming, or in the fall, when the trees are changing, this area is heavenly.

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PINEY CREEK FALLS

Description

Piney Creek Falls offers a great place to swim and play at the base of an 80 foot waterfall. The hardy and cautious hiker can also visit the top of another smaller falls and the top of the big waterfall.

Location

Take US27 toward Spring City. Near Spring City, take TN68 North up the mountain for about 5 miles to a little town called Grandview. Watch carefully near the top of the mountain for a sharp left turn onto Firetower Rd. About 1.5 miles down this road there is an unmarked jeep road which goes into the woods on the right (with an informal parking area nearby). 4x4 vehicles may be able to take this road for another 1/2 mile or so, but the road is sometimes plagued with downed trees.

Continue down this trail/road past a clearing for power lines and to an informal campsite/clearing. 4x4's must stop here. Nearby, a trail will lead ahead toward a bluff, but a more obscure path leads off sharply to the right just as you reach the clearing. The obscure path goes to the top of the big waterfall, but BEWARE, there is no fencing and you will come out at the edge of a deadly drop. The "beaten" path leads around a bluff and on a well marked trail to the base of the large falls. Along the way, you will hear the sound of a smaller waterfall and the careful hiker =can= reach the top of a smaller (40 foot) waterfall by bushwhacking down the bluff. Again, be CAREFUL because the top of the falls is totally unprotected.

USGS Map: Spring City, TN

What's Special

Piney Creek Falls offers great swimming and a wonderful place to photograph a powerful waterfall from the top and from the base. It is a nice place to spend a hot summer afternoon.

Best Season

This area is perfect for a summer day. In the fall, the colors are great. In the spring, the flowers are fabulous.

Facilities

Grandview offers some "Mom and Pop" stores, but there are no facilities at the falls.

Nearby Attractions

The Cumberland Plateau is full of wonderful hiking opportunities and Watts Bar Lake is close by also.

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SNOOPER'S ROCK

Description

 Prentice Cooper Wildlife Management Area and Forest offers a playground for hikers, bikers, 4x4ers, and hunters. Snooper's Rock is one of the best known overlooks of the Tennessee River in the area, but there are MANY great places to explore on these mountains.

Location

From Chattanooga, take US127 to the foot of Signal Mountain. Just before beginning to ascend Signal Mountain, take a left turn (follow the signs to Whitwell) onto Suck Creek Road (TN27) and continue several miles up Suck Creek Mountain. Near the top of the mountain, a sign will welcome you to the Walden Community. About 3/4 mile past that sign, turn left at a sign for Prentice Cooper. Continue taking each left until the road becomes gravel.

You will enter Prentice Cooper at a gated entrance. Be aware that the entire area or portions may be closed for various reasons. Continue down the "main road" (Tower Road) for several miles. MANY jeep roads will exit on both sides and these roads are great for exploring, but only with a mountain bike or 4x4. Some are passable by car, but many are not; some are not passable by ANY vehicle.

After several miles of wonderful solitude in the forest, you will come to a group of picnic tables and a road marked "Snooper's Rock" on the left. Continue down that road to the obvious parking area and trail to the unprotected rock.

What's Special

Prentice Cooper offers absolutely stunning scenery in the fall. A 4x4 drive through the muddy trails can be as exciting as any amusement park. Mountain bikers find challenges around every corner. Hikers have an opportunity to reach views of the Tn River that are breathtaking and serene. Snooper's Rock is only the beginning for folks who want to explore nature in this area.

Best Season

Prentice Cooper in the fall is nothing short of paradise. There are leaves of every color, views of mountains which are glowing with color, and sharp, crisp, mountain air. It is a garden of delights in the muddy spring for 4x4s and mountain bikes.

Facilities

Snooper's Rock has no facilities. Davis Pond (nearby) does have an outhouse.

Nearby Attractions

Prentice Cooper is really close to Chattanooga. The Cumberland Trail passes through the area and it is possible to hike from Edwards Point to Snooper's Rock, but the hike would be an all day affair.

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Stinging Fork Falls

Description

Stinging Fork Falls is a great seasonal waterfall located in a "Pocket Wilderness" owned by Bowater. It features a cascade then a "spewing" falls into a nice, deep swimming hole. Even when not running heavily, the falls area is a playful, peaceful spot to explore.

Location

From US27 near Spring City, got north on TN68 for about 1.5 miles to "Shut In Gap Road." Continue on this road for about 5 miles to a signed parking area. The nearby area has been recently logged.
 

What's Special

The Stinging Fork area just lends itself to playing. When the water is high, the deep pool is beautiful and lends itself to swimming and the falls become a roaring monster. When the water is low, the area above the falls is intriguing. The stream bed is as flat as a concrete floor. The rocks below the falls offer endless rock hopping opportunities and the whole area is alive with flowers and birds.

Best Season

The falls is great in spring and the area smells wonderful when everything is blooming. In the fall/winter, though, the hike takes on a different view and the stream can be either alive or coy, depending on recent rains. In the summer, of course, the reason to go is to swim! You'll  need to swim, because the hike back out can be murder in the humidity.

Facilities

There are no facilities in the area.

Nearby Attractions

The Piney Creek trail which you pass on the way to the Stinging Fork Falls parking area is a favorite hike in the area.

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Upper Ocoee

Description

If you live in Chattanooga, you surely know about the whitewater opportunities of the Ocoee River. Relatively few folks venture past the commercial put-in, however, to the Olympic Whitewater Center and the nice swimming, wading, hiking, biking area around it. When TVA allows this area to run "low," it is a nice spot to spend an afternoon. BEWARE, when TVA "turns the water on" in this area, it becomes a neat place for kayakers NOT swimmers.

Location

From Chattanooga, follow the signs to the Ocoee area (US64/74 east). Continue past the "usual" whitewater area until you come to the Olympic Whitewater Center on the right. Park there and take the trail upstream at the base of the bridge across the Ocoee. Various trails will lead you to some interesting swimming holes along the river.

What's Special

The rocks are bleached, smoothed, and just plain eerie looking in some places. When the water is a little higher, there are various "swim through the hole in the rock" places and "bathtubs" and things like that. The water is often VERY warm because it moves slowly and is exposed to a lot of sunlight. Aside from the swimming and boulder hopping, there are mountain bike/hiking trails in the area, including new ones on the other side of the suspension bridge.

Best Season

For swimming, the summer is best. For the hiking trails, the spring and fall are great.

Facilities

There are facilities at the whitewater center, which also sells forest service/wilderness maps which are great to have.

Nearby Attractions

Aside from the obvious whitewater and Benton Falls, the Little Frog Wilderness is a great spot for hiking. Some of the trails there are VERY challenging and extremely remote. The Cohutta Wilderness is not far away with its challenging trails, fabulous fishing, and expansive amounts of solitude.

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VIRGIN FALLS

Description

It's not on a river. The stream comes out of a cave about 200 feet above the falls, tumbles about 110 feet into a sinkhole, then disappears. Be advised that these falls are very seasonal and can be only barely running at times.

Location

From  Crossville, take US70S toward Sparta. One may reach the Virgin Falls Pocket Wilderness from either DeRossett or Pleasant Hill by following the signs in the area. From DeRossett, turn left on Eastland Rd for about 6 miles to Scotts Gulf Rd. Turn right onto Scotts Gulf Road and the parking area is about 2 miles on the right. The trail to the falls is 4 miles long one-way. Expect to spend the entire day here.

What's Special

Virgin Falls is just cool. If you want to camp there, many people have established a campsite within sight of the falls. If you want to play in the various smaller waterfalls along the way, many people shower in Laurel Falls near the "halfway" point. There is access to the Caney Fork River and some nice views.

Best Season

In the heat of summer, the hike can be brutal. In the spring, the hike can be lovely. In the fall, the crisp air makes the distance easier to endure.

Facilities

There are no facilities for miles.

Nearby Attractions

The Scott's Gulf area has its own homepage which tells far more than I could about this wonderful area.

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