There’s still a little bit of summer left, and you can maximize the fun by exploring some of Tennessee’s most magnificent waterfalls. The state is full of waterfalls, but three locations stand out. Get the details and add them to your end-of-summer itinerary.
Upper Piney Falls at the Piney Falls State Natural Area
There are numerous reasons to visit the Piney Falls State Natural Area in Rhea County, but none will surpass seeing Upper Piney Falls in person. Little Piney Creek feeds the 80-foot waterfall. After the water reaches the pool, it travels to Lower Piney Falls, which has a 40-foot drop.
You can hike along a trail to get to Upper Piney Falls, and the views are amazing. Along with the waterfalls, you’ll be treated to an oak-pine forest as far as the eyes can see.
You cannot hike to Lower Piney Falls, though, and trying to get down there is dangerous. Instead, stick to viewing Upper Piney Falls. It’s so impressive that seeing it will be enough for the day.
Ozone Falls at Ozone Falls State Natural Area
If you think an 80-foot waterfall is impressive, wait until you see Ozone Falls in Cumberland County. This is the grandaddy of waterfalls, with a massive 110-foot drop. The water cascades over sandstone cap rock before settling into a pool.
You can see the waterfall from above and then hike down to the pool below. It’s just as impressive from below as it is from above.
If you have a little time, watch the film “The Jungle Book” before you visit Ozone Falls. Some of the scenes were filmed at this exact location, so it’s a great way to get into the waterfall spirit. Then you’ll feel like the star of your movie as you go down below.
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Waterfalls at Old Stone Fort State Archeological Park
Why visit one waterfall when you can see three during a single hike at Old Stone Fort State Archaeological Park in Manchester, TN? The park is home to Blue Hole Falls, Step Falls, and Big Falls. You can take in all three when hiking along the park’s Enclosure Trail. This 1.4-mile trail is easy to moderate and will also take out past additional sights before you finally get to the waterfalls. You can view them from up above and also walk down to the pools below. Make sure you wear appropriate shoes for the steep climb down. Then, once you reach the bottom, you can get in the water if you want.
Exploring these waterfalls will keep you busy for the rest of the summer. When you visit, be sure to explore the rest of the area as well. With numerous options for hiking and exploring, you’ll want to set aside several hours for each location.
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