The Paddle Trail Path in Tennessee That’s Better Than Most Hikes

If you’re getting bored with hiking trails, it may be time to switch it up. Thankfully, there’s no shortage of outdoor adventures in Tennessee; all you need is the time to explore them all. Now that we are turning the corner into summer, our days can be spent near water—my favorite thing about this time of year. There’s one particular paddle trail in Tennessee that’s better than most hikes. No, really! It takes everything you love about your favorite hiking trail and puts you in the water.

Where This Trail Is and What Makes It Unique

We often feature waterfall hiking trails that take you to some of Tennessee’s most beautiful cascades, and this one is no different—except for how you’ll arrive. This paddle trail takes you along the Cane Creek and over to Burgess Falls.

Burgess Falls is one of the most iconic waterfalls in the state. This beauty drops for 136 feet into a massive limestone gorge with 100-200-foot walls. There are several hiking trails at Burgess Falls State Park that will take you to view the falls from above, plus some of the park’s other waterfalls, but to get a view of Burgess Falls from below, you’ll need to take the paddle trail. 

While Burgess Falls is located within Burfess Falls State Park, you’ll want to drop in about two miles down the river at the Cane Hollow Recreation Area (pictured above). There’s plenty of parking here, plus it’s an easy slope to drop in your canoe, kayak, or paddleboard. Larger boats can use the paved boat ramp.

Once you drop in, you’ll head upstream, veering right at the Tibbs Hollow Cove fork to stay on the paddle trail. It’s about a two-mile trip to the falls from Cane Hollow.

What You’ll See Along the Way

This is a perfect paddle trail for just about anyone. One of the reasons I love this trail is that you start and end in the same spot. Having to leave a car at the drop-in and another at the take-out locations is a logistical nightmare, and to be honest, I’m more of a spontaneous adventurer than a planner, so I tend to seek out paddle trips just like this one. 

The journey may be brief, but it’s incredibly scenic. Keep an eye out for migratory and resident birds in the skies and wildlife along the banks. If you’re really lucky (and quiet), you might catch a heron snatch a fish out of the water! I’d highly recommend ditching the EarPods and listening to the sounds of nature surrounding you—Mother Nature’s playlist never disappoints. 

Seeing Burgess Falls from the base is an extraordinary experience. Hopefully, you’ll be able to paddle straight to it, but even if you have to beach your vessel and hike, you’re still in for a treat. Plus, nothing beats a refreshing dip in the pool below. 

Tips for Visiting This Paddle Trail in Tennessee

This paddle trail is the perfect summer activity, but not for the reasons you’d think. Sure, the longer days and warmer temps of summer always invite us to spend more time outdoors, but the real reason that this paddle trail in Tennessee is a summertime favorite is due to water levels. From late summer until spring, the water levels may be too low to paddle through. 

Even still, you’ll want to check the water levels before you drop in. If the water levels are too low, you’ll need to beach your kayak early and take a half-mile hike to Burgess Falls. If the water gods deem this your fate, be sure to secure your vessel before the hike—you wouldn’t want your watercraft to float away.

As with any outdoor adventure, a good pair of shoes, sunglasses, and a hat are recommended. A lifejacket is essential for any aquatic adventure, as is sunscreen. 

As the temperatures rise, this spot becomes very popular with folks who want to beat the heat. If you want to escape the crowds, try visiting during the weekdays or early mornings on the weekends. 

This isn’t the only paddle trail in Tennessee worth your time. Check out the paddle trail at Rock Island State Park or try the paddle trail along the Wolf River for more amazing adventures on the water this summer. And of course, we’ve got plenty of waterfalls in Tennessee to keep you busy all season long!