Discover the Tallest Waterfall in Tennessee

You can’t talk about Tennessee without addressing the state’s talent for country music and affinity for fine whiskey. Aside from some of these legendary aspects of the state, there are some gorgeous natural wonders to explore as well. Discover the tallest waterfall in Tennessee, its history, the wildlife surrounding it, and things to do when you visit! As a bonus, we include another impressive waterfall in the state that is equally as mesmerizing.  

The Tallest Waterfall in Tennessee

Tennessee Parks manages the forest where the tallest waterfall in the state is found. Fall Creek Falls takes the number one spot for the tallest waterfall in Tennessee, coming in at a staggering 256 feet tall! This waterfall is nestled into Fall Creek Falls State Park. The forest has been beautifully described as the most diverse in the eastern region of the U.S. where American beach, northern red, oak, and basswood thrive. These falls are situated to the east of the Rocky Mountains. If you admire them from below, you find yourself in a shadowed pool where the water splashes like a conductor, lifting an orchestra of mist into the surroundings.

The National Park Service began buying portions of the land in 1935 with the Works Project Administration playing a part in the development of the park facilities. In 1944, the state park project became the responsibility of the Tennessee Department of Conservation. In 1968, there was further development of the state park’s facilities. However, a large portion of the land remained undeveloped to conserve its natural essence and resources. Initially, Native Americans claimed the land but later, white pioneers began leaving their mark on the area. Today, the area is open for hunting during the usual season though dates and regulations should be confirmed before arrival.

Size of Fall Creek Falls

Although the state of Tennessee is no stranger to gorgeous waterfalls, it’s ultimately Fall Creek Falls that attracts the most visitors each year (both locals and tourists!). The state park spans 26,000 acres and you can find the impressive waterfall in the western region of Cane Creek. Depending on the time of year you visit, it may be a rushing cascade or a much calmer cascade. If you are drawn to the sound of rushing waters, this state park is like paradise. However, to experience it in its full majesty, head over to the starting point of Fall Creeks Falls Trail. In addition, you can park your car at the Fall Creek Falls Overlook.

Wildlife Around Fall Creek Falls

Fall Creek Falls State Park is rich in wildlife, including mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, and insects. Mammals are separated into three distinct categories that include small, medium, and large mammals. Large mammals include black bears, cougars, elk, deer, coyotes, red foxes, gray foxes, and bobcats. There are also non-native species that include wild hogs and coypus. Medium-sized mammals include swamp rabbits, raccoons, northern flying squirrels, Appalachian cottontails, southern flying squirrels, river otters, eastern spotted skunks, and also nine-banded armadillos.

Small mammals include southern bog lemmings, North American deer mice, white-footed deer mice, eastern chipmunks, eastern moles, and American pygmy shrews. Flying mammals include Indiana bats, tri-colored bats, hoary bats, eastern red bats, and evening bats. Reptiles include lizards, snakes, alligators, and turtles. Amphibians include frogs, toads, and salamanders.

Things To Do at Fall Creek Falls

You have tons of outdoor recreation options when you visit Fall Creek Falls. You can experience rock climbing, a canopy challenge, boating, swimming, hiking, biking, and fishing. Considering the deep gorges surrounding the falls, a great variety of birds litter the area, making for a wonderful birdwatching trip. There’s even an 18-hole golf course you can explore as you enjoy the unique forested woodlands in the area. There are opportunities for camping, renting cabins, setting up group outings at lodges, and enjoying some great dining options.

Obviously visiting the tallest waterfall in Tennessee is a must. However, once you’ve arrived, there’s much else for you to explore. There are multiple waterfalls nestled into the forestry environment but there are also modern amenities to explore when you want to take a break from the outdoors, clean up, and enjoy a bit of luxury, including cozy accommodations, fine dining, and tasty drinks.

The Second Most Impressive Waterfall in Tennessee

Tennessee boasts the tallest waterfall east of the Rocky Mountains but there’s a second local attraction, Ruby Falls, that is worth a visit if you plan to travel through this state. Head over to Lookout Mountain just outside of Chattanooga to explore the series of breathtakingly beautiful underground cascades spread throughout the mountain. These falls were discovered in 1928 and in 1929, they became an attraction open to the public. Explore the caves, take in the incredible views, and even enjoy zip line adventures when you visit!

Where is Falls Creek Falls, TN Located on a Map?

Fall Creek Falls, located within Fall Creek Falls State Park near Spencer, Tennessee, is an impressive waterfall with a steep drop measuring 256 feet in height. Remarkably, it holds the distinction of being the tallest waterfall of its kind to the east of the Mississippi River.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © rarrarorro/Shutterstock.com