10 of the Most Stunning Waterfalls in East Tennessee

Hiking to waterfalls is the best way to spend a summer day. You’ll want to head to East Tennessee if you are looking for a great place to chase waterfalls. If you don’t know what waterfalls to look for, then here’s a list. Take a look at the ten most stunning waterfalls in East Tennessee that you can’t afford to miss.

1. Emory Gap Falls

There is a waterfall named Emory Gap Falls at the end of the Emory Gap Trail. The Emory Gap Trail is a 2.5-mile out-and-back trail suitable for hikers of all levels. The waterfall is accessible from the Panther Branch Trailhead and is the second waterfall on the path. Debord Falls is the first waterfall on the path. The Emory Gap Falls is a beautiful place to explore Tennessee’s natural landscape.

2. Angel Falls Overlook

Angel Falls is a four-mile out-and-back hike (2 miles each way). From the Leatherwood Ford parking lot, it follows along the Cumberland River. Once you get to the end of the trail you’ll see the beautiful Angel Falls. The hike is definitely worth the effort to see one of the prettiest waterfalls in East Tennessee.

3. Bald River Falls

This waterfall in East Tennessee is one of the most easily accessed, and you can even see it from the window of your car. The waterfall is estimated to be between 90 and 100 feet tall. This waterfall is on the Tellico River Road, which was created on an old logging road and has big boulders, spectacular rock formations, fast-flowing whitewater, and lush vegetation. There’s truly nothing better than driving to a waterfall on a hot day.

4. Ozone Falls

There is no better waterfall in East Tennessee than this 43-acre natural area located just off Interstate 40. The 110-foot-long Ozone Falls cascades from the top of a sandstone rock into a pool. The waterfall cascades into a pool and emerges downstream. This location was even used in the movie “Jungle Book”! You can’t go wrong with this waterfall, which is sure to make for great photos.

5. Cane Creek Cascades

This waterfall in East Tennessee is not the highest or the most impressive, but it is absolutely beautiful. In fact, you can walk behind the waterfall to breathe in the fresh air of nature and take in the beauty of the gushing water. The falls can be found in Fall Creek Falls State Park which is located in Spencer, Tennessee. Considering Cane Creek Falls is easy to get to and doesn’t require climbing, it’s perfect if you want to spend more time soaking up the rays of the sun.

6. Cummins Falls

Cummins Falls is in Jackson County, near Cookeville, in Cummins Falls State Park. The park covers over 200 acres and boasts the absolutely spectacular 75-foot Cummins Falls. Swimming is a great way to cool off after the one-mile hike to the falls. There are two miles of rough terrain to cover during the round trip.

7. Grotto Falls

This waterfall in East Tennessee is located in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It is the only waterfall you can walk behind in the Smokies. Getting to this waterfall is a moderate hike that is about three miles. A great place to start hiking if you’re a beginner.

8. Blue Hole Falls

In Cherokee National Forest northeast of Elizabethton, you’ll find Blue Hole Falls, a stunning multi-section waterfall. There is a half-mile trail that leads to the falls. If you want to enjoy a cooler climate and quieter places, we recommend going in spring or autumn, when crowds are less likely. At the base of Blue Hole Falls, there is even a swimming pool that many people take advantage of in the hot summer months!

9. Ruby Falls

At Ruby Falls, you will find the deepest and highest subterranean waterfall in the United States. The roaring waterfall, hidden deep beneath the 2,388-foot peak of Lookout Mountain, attracts almost 500,000 visitors every year. It is also possible to take guided tours that cover a variety of topics, including one-mile treks through caves that are ideal for families.

10. Benton Falls

Enjoy the breathtaking Benton Falls in the Cherokee National Forest on this simple, dog-friendly hike. A favorite summer getaway, Benton Falls offers a lot for a little effort. An impressive 65-foot waterfall greets you at the base of Benton Falls. However, it is much more powerful if it’s rained recently.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © iStock.com/7Michael