Burgess Falls is a tiered waterfall located within Burgess Falls State Park, spanning Putnam and White counties in Tennessee, USA. It sits along the Falling Water River. The waterfall plunges from a height of about 136 feet (41 meters) into a large limestone gorge, which is surrounded by steep cliffs rising approximately 100 to 200 feet (30 to 61 meters) on both sides. Downstream from Burgess Falls, the Falling Water River flows into Center Hill Lake.
Burgess Falls
1 photo
Leaflet © OpenStreetMap
41m
Waterfall height
Plan your visit to Burgess Falls
Please verify on the official website before you go
Why is Burgess Falls famous?
Burgess Falls is famous for its dramatic 41-meter (134-foot) plunge over a limestone cliff into a picturesque gorge, making it one of Tennessee's most photographed waterfalls. The falls and surrounding area were designated as a State Natural Area in 1973 to protect the unique geology and diverse plant communities of the Falling Water River gorge.
Can you swim at Burgess Falls?
No. Swimming is not permitted at Burgess Falls for safety reasons due to strong currents and dangerous conditions. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Are dogs allowed at Burgess Falls?
Dogs allowed on-leash on trails but not permitted on the overlook platforms at the main falls. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is Burgess Falls free? Do you need a permit?
Free. No entrance fee or permit required to visit Burgess Falls State Park. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is there parking at Burgess Falls?
Free parking available at the main trailhead with a moderate-sized lot. The lot can fill up on busy weekends and holidays, so arriving early is recommended. Please verify on the official website before you go.
How long is the hike to Burgess Falls?
About 2.4 km / 1.5 miles one-way (4.8 km / 3 miles return) from the main parking area to the main falls overlook. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Burgess Falls hike difficulty
Moderate. The trail descends about 180 meters (600 feet) with stairs and steep sections, requiring a strenuous climb back up. Please verify on the official website before you go.
When is the best time to visit Burgess Falls?
Spring (March–May) for highest water flow from rainfall and snowmelt, and fall (September–November) for cooler temperatures and colorful foliage. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Route and trail notes for Burgess Falls
From the main parking area, follow the River Trail downstream along the Falling Water River. The trail passes three smaller cascades before reaching the main 41-meter (134-foot) Burgess Falls. The path includes wooden stairs and can be steep and rocky in sections. Multiple viewing platforms offer different perspectives of the main falls, with the lower platform providing the closest view.
Burgess Falls official website
Attractions near Burgess Falls
- •Cummins Falls State Park – another stunning waterfall with swimming allowed, about 20 minutes away
- •Center Hill Lake – large reservoir offering boating, fishing, and water recreation
- •Rock Island State Park – features Great Falls and the Caney Fork River gorge
- •Sparta – small town with local dining and the Calfkiller Brewing Company
Safety information
Waterfalls can be unforgiving. Read these before you go — and please, use your judgement on the day.
Full safety guide →Questions & answers
No questions yet — be the first to ask.
More to explore nearby
Ruby Falls
Chattanooga, Tennessee
Underground waterfall inside Lookout Mountain.
44m·No reviews yet·354been
Fall Creek Falls
Pikeville, Tennessee
Tennessee's highest free-falling waterfall.
78m·No reviews yet·152been
Cane Creek Falls
Pikeville, Tennessee
Wide cascade in Fall Creek Falls State Park.
25m·No reviews yet·104been
Cummins Falls
Cookeville, Tennessee
Tiered waterfall with popular swimming hole.
23m·No reviews yet·133been