Fall Creek Falls

Fall Creek Falls is the tallest waterfall east of the Mississippi River at 256 feet, making it a signature natural landmark of Tennessee. The waterfall is the centerpiece of Tennessee's largest state park and has been a beloved destination since the park's creation by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s.

No. Swimming is not permitted at the base of Fall Creek Falls due to safety concerns and park regulations. Please verify on the official website before you go.

Dogs allowed on-leash on trails; not permitted in visitor center or certain facilities. Please verify on the official website before you go.

Free entry to Fall Creek Falls State Park. No permit required for day use or waterfall viewing. Camping and cabin rentals require separate fees. Please verify on the official website before you go.

Large parking area available at the Fall Creek Falls overlook with free parking. The overlook is roadside accessible. Additional parking at Nature Center and trailheads throughout the 26,000-acre park. Please verify on the official website before you go.

About 0 km / 0 mi for the overlook (roadside accessible). The Base of the Falls Trail is approximately 1.2 km / 0.75 mi one-way with steep descent and stairs. Please verify on the official website before you go.

Roadside (no hike) for the overlook viewing platform. Moderate to Hard if hiking the gorge trail to the base due to steep terrain, stairs, and elevation change. Please verify on the official website before you go.

Spring (March–May) for peak water flow from winter and spring rains, and fall (September–November) for colorful foliage. Summer can be busy but offers warm weather for hiking. Please verify on the official website before you go.

For the overlook: park at the designated Fall Creek Falls overlook parking area and walk a short paved path to the viewing platform. For the base trail: from the Nature Center area, follow signs to the Base of the Falls Trail. Descend steep wooden stairs and switchbacks through the gorge. The trail is strenuous with significant elevation loss (and gain on return). Return is the same route back up.

• •Cane Creek Falls - 85-foot waterfall accessible via a moderate 2.5-mile loop trail
• •Cane Creek Cascades - Beautiful cascading waterfall on the Cane Creek gorge loop
• •Piney Falls State Natural Area - Scenic 90-foot waterfall about 30 minutes north
• •Burgess Falls State Park - Four-tiered waterfall system approximately 45 minutes away
• •Virgin Falls Pocket Wilderness - 110-foot waterfall requiring a challenging 8-mile hike