The Easiest Hike Led Us to Views of One of the Best Waterfalls in Tennessee

I would consider Burgess Falls in Tennessee to be one of its top three waterfalls. Now, that is saying something, because there are an estimated 900 or so waterfalls in the state! But taking one look at this unique waterfall, it isn’t hard to imagine why it is in my top three. I had already ranked it pretty high on my list, but then when I saw it for the first time, it simply took my breath away. Here is everything you need to know about one of the best waterfalls in Tennessee. 

Burgess Falls is conveniently located near the middle of the state, so you can get to it from many of the major cities. If you are visiting the capitol and looking for easy hikes near Nashville, then it's only an hour and a half drive out to the park. We were doing a tour of some of the best trails in the area, and all of the best waterfalls - like Fall Creek Falls, and Twin Falls, just to name two - are all close by. The only way to see Burgess Falls from the state park, though, is to lace up those hiking boots and hit the trail.

The River Trail is a very simple, short and sweet, out-and-back kind of hike. Along the way, we were treated to smaller waterfalls that, in and of themselves, would be worth the visit, but they were overshadowed by the beauty of Burgess Falls.

After enjoying the slight ups and downs of the hike, we arrived on an elevated, wooded landing that overlooks the falls. We were far away, but that allowed us to get the whole view of the falls and the surrounding area. We were awestruck when we arrived, and although I already had seen pictures, it was entirely different to be standing there ogling this unique waterfall. What makes it so interesting is the shape of the rock which comes to a sharp point and allows the water to fall at interesting angles on either side. This creates an almost-pyramid of plunging water, and the mighty roar of the water flow is as impressive as Niagara Falls.

I also like to get to the base of any waterfall I travel to, but if you want to do it here, you will have to be kayaking at Burgess Falls. In the state park itself, the viewing platform is the only way to see the falls, but if you want the kayaking experience, you will have to launch from the Cane Hollow Recreation Area. Then follow the river up until you reach this massive waterfall. We saw some people kayaking and I was a little envious, so I know that is something I will be going back to do at some point. 

From the viewing platform, you can continue further along the trail to get to the top of the waterfall. I am the kind of person who wants to soak everything out of an adventure, so these detours are never optional for me. We took the trail and were greeted by a very calm river leading to the top of the waterfall. The contrast between the roaring flow of water and the meandering nature of the trickling river was very interesting. You can even step right up to the top of the waterfall and look down more than 130 feet to the river below. As I stood on the ledge of this waterfall looking, down I decided this waterfall is definitely in my top three waterfalls of Tennessee now.

Burgess Falls in Tennessee is a must-see waterfall for anyone. From the casual nature walker to the hardcore waterfall chaser, this is one of the top falls in the state. To get to the viewing platform you will want to take the River Trail, which follows the river straight to the gorgeous overlook. I would suggest having the AllTrails map handy when you go. You can download the River Trail to Ridgetop Trail map, and that will take you right there. I would highly recommend this trail, and if you want another great hike in the area, then head to Fall Creek Falls State Park to hike to the bottom of the biggest waterfall in Tennessee. I would also suggest checking out an Adventuring in the Moment video we made of the hike, so you know what to expect when you go and visit this amazing state park.