There's A Hidden Oasis Waiting For You At The End Of This Tennessee Trail

Tennessee is known for its gorgeous natural beauty, with fields planned meticulously by farmers framing the west and mountains meeting the state line to the east. We live in a beautiful place, and it’s something that, as Tennesseans, we shouldn’t be taking for granted. The question that berates us much too often, however, lies in the weight of our decisions. Where do we go?! With so many options it’s easy to paralyze our weekends with overwrought analysis. Which, of course, is why we made the decision for you this time around: we’re off to Machine Falls!

Brenton Rogers - Flickr

Have you ever been to Short Springs State Natural Area, in Tullahoma, Tennessee? Machine Falls Loop is only an hour from the Nashville metropolis in Middle Tennessee, and it's a beautiful place to get out of the city and enjoy the beauty of the wilderness.

Michael Hicks - Flickr

Round trip the trail only 1.6 miles, and is rated with "moderate difficulty" since you'll be making a short and steep descent into the waterfall's gorge. The trail is very lightly trafficked so you won't be pushing your way through throngs of people, which is a stunning respite from Cummins Falls and Radnor Lake.

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Michael Hicks - Flickr

Make sure to look down! Although the waterfall is beautiful, you'll find all sorts of local flora and fauna as you wander through the Short Springs State Natural Area wilderness.

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Michael Hicks - Flickr

Can you imagine a better payoff? Machine Falls is the perfect way to access one of Tennessee's hidden waterfalls, and the trail is safe for dogs (if they're on a leash!) and children as well.

Michael Hicks - Flickr

Open year-round, you don't have to wait for the warmer months to indulge in a trail loop.

Michael Hicks - Flickr

Wandering through the wilderness is one of life's sweetest pleasures, and thankfully Tennessee makes it easy. Though the falls are stunning, the entire hike is perfect for an indulgent Saturday in the natural world.

Tabitha Kaylee Hawk - Flickr

Fall in love with Machine Falls before it gets too chilly, friends! Bring your best friend or your mom, your little ones, or head out to Short Springs State Natural Area on a date - Tennessee's most natural state is where it's at.

You can continue to explore the beauty of our stunning state with these 10 hidden spots throughout Tennessee. Have the best time!