15 Incredible Natural Wonders In Tennessee That Defy Explanation
By Chris Dodge|Published December 15, 2023
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Chris Dodge
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My name is Chris Dodge and I live right here in the great state of Tennessee. My family and I are full adventurers filled with passion to see the amazing things our state has to offer. We are avid hikers and have explored many different places in Tennessee and beyond but we are always thankful to be living in such a glorious state.
We are blessed with one of the most beautiful states in the world just teeming with adventure. There is nothing like traveling from east to west and exploring all of the unique natural wonders in Tennessee. We have more caves than any other state and are blessed with nearly 900 waterfalls! This list will only scratch the surface of the incredible natural beauty you can find in the volunteer state but every last one of these is a must-see. So let’s dive into some of the natural wonders that make Tennessee so special.
The topography of the volunteer state lends itself to massive limestone formations and natural gorges. So when it comes to hiking to cliffsides and overlooking winding rivers you bet there are some good ones here. When you are looking for natural wonders in Tennessee a great place to start is with a couple of gorges.
1. Tennessee River Gorge, Chattanooga
Snooper's Rock, Game Reserve Rd, Chattanooga, TN 37405, USA
The Tennessee River is a national treasure that spans from Knoxville through Chattanooga. There are many great uses for this river like taking out a boat and cruising downstream, but if you want to get the best views you will need to lace up your hiking boots. The Tennessee River Gorge is best seen from the rim and one of the best places to do that is on the Snooper Rock Trail. This overlook was my favorite and will give you a fantastic scenic look at the horseshoe bend in the gorge. The Tennessee River Gorge is known as the Grand Canyon of Tennessee and it lives up to the nickname. So next time you are visiting Lookout Mountain, Ruby Falls, Rock City, the Tennessee Aquarium, Raccoon Mountain Caverns, or really anywhere in Chattanooga make sure to take a trip to this fantastic gorge.
Wow Factor: Hike through old abandoned train tunnels
Cost: Free
Doe River Gorge was an exciting adventure for my family and me. The trail is located on private land owned by the Doe River Gorge Christian Camp however they do allow guests. You do have to call ahead for permission but the staff is extremely friendly and they want to show off this natural beauty. The Doe River Gorge Trail follows the tracks of a famous and historical train that once traversed this rugged mountainous land. The trail also features two blasted tunnels you get to hike through as well as sections that open up and you can really experience the sheer size of the gorge you are walking through. This is a great day hike for anyone coming from Bristol, Kingsport, Johnson City, or anywhere from the Tri-Cities area.
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3. Pogue Creek Canyon State Natual Area, Jamestown
Wow Factor: Beautiful vistas, cliffs, unique rock formations, and a dark sky park
Cost: Free
Nestled into a remote wilderness area on the northern side of Tennessee by Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area you can find Pogue Creek Canyon State Natural Area. This gorge makes the list because one look is all you need to realize just how special this place is. Take the Pogue Creek Overlook and Upper Canyon Trails for a wild adventure filled with gorgeous overlooks, cliffside beauty, and fascinating rock formations like bridges and arches. The whole gorge almost seems otherworldly and is well worth exploring. This natural area and the nearby Picket CCC Memorial State Park are also recognized as the best dark sky parks in the state. So pack a good headlamp and get ready for the most phenomenal night skies you’ve ever seen.
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Best Caves In Tennessee
Did you know that there are more caves in our state than any other and it is estimated that there are around 10,000 of them! So if you like splunking this is the state for you. When it comes to natural attractions in Tennessee caves make the top of the list. There is no need to fear claustrophobia here because there are three caves to tour that you won’t want to miss.
Wow Factor: The biggest freefalling underground waterfall open to the public in the country
Cost: Adults: $25.95, Children: $15.95, and Kids 2 and under: Free
When it comes to natural wonders in Tennessee this is one of the top ones and coincidentally on most Tennessean’s bucket lists. It is easy to see why too. This is after all the biggest freefalling underground waterfall open to the public in America. The gorgeous Ruby Falls is only enhanced by dramatic lighting and the crescendo of an already incredible tour of the underground. This cave is located under Lookout Mountain which is the iconic peak looming over Chattanooga. Topside of Ruby Falls there is a beautiful castle made from the stones mined to create the elevator underground. Guests can dine, zipline, and soak in the breathtaking views from high above getting a great vantage point of this stunning part of Tennessee.
5. Lost Sea Adventure, Sweetwater
The Lost Sea Adventure, 140 Lost Sea Rd, Sweetwater, TN 37874, USA
Wow Factor: Largest underground lake in the country
Cost: Adults: $24.95, Children: $14.95, and Kids 3 and under: Free
The Lost Sea Adventure is another epic cave experience unlike any other. The highlight of the tour of course is the giant underground lake illuminated by bright blue lights. Taking a boat out on an underground body of water is a once-in-a-lifetime kind of adventure. Keep your eyes peeled for the fish that call the cave waters home. The cave itself is known as Craighead Caverns and along your tour, you will be guided through the history of the cave as well as witness fascinating rock formations. With a short drive from Townsend, Pigeon Forge, or Gatlinburg this is a great addition to your Smoky Mountain vacation.
6. Tuckaleechee Caverns, Townsend
Tuckaleechee Caverns, 825 Cavern Rd, Townsend, TN 37882, USA
Wow Factor: Most sensitive seismic station on earth
Cost: Adults: $22, Children (5-11): $10, and Kids 4 and under: Free
You can think of Tuckaleechee Caverns as our secret weapon. Through many various factors, this cave was discovered to house the most sensitive seismic station on the planet. The caverns themselves are like ears right in the earth's crust that detects ocean waves, nuclear testing, and earthquakes. This peek into the planet's seismic activity is truly a gift and it's also a place you can visit. Take a tour to learn more about the sensitive equipment, learn about the discovery of the cave, and so much more. Located in Townsend which is known as the “Peaceful side of the Smokies” certainly has its advantages. It is a great day trip if you are having a family vacation to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park or if you are staying in any of the nearby towns like Seiverville or Maryville.
Best Waterfalls In Tennessee
One of my favorite things while exploring natural wonders in Tennessee, is to lace up my hiking boots, grab my backpack, and hike out to a waterfall. It is one of the ultimate end goals for any hike to keep you motivated. Often when I have friends and family from out of state visit I take them to a local waterfall. After all, we have some of the best waterfalls in the country. So for nature places in Tennessee find your way to one of these waterfalls and get caught up in the awe-inspired beauty.
7. Fall Creek Falls, Spencer
Fall Creek Falls State Park, 2009 Village Camp Rd, Spencer, TN 38585, USA
No list of great waterfalls is complete until Fall Creek Falls is on it. When it comes to natural wonders in Tennessee this is at the top of many lists because this is the tallest waterfall in Tennessee and is quite a spectacle to behold. Found in Fall Creek Falls State Park in Spenser this is usually the draw for more people visiting the park. The waterfall is easily seen by a viewing deck after a short walk from the parking lot however if you are up for an adventure getting to the base of the falls is one of the funnest hikes in the state. Descending a windy path and a couple of sets of stairs you will pass by a large crevice in the rock, and then traverse a rocky area right in front of a behemoth of a limestone cliff all before you reach the falls. The powerful flowing water can be felt from dozens of feet away and gives a much better perspective of how tall the waterfall is. The state park also features plenty of adventure if you like chasing waterfalls.
To see Burgress Falls is also a rewarding hike where the journey itself can be the destination. The Ridgetop Trail will take you along the river and you can witness a couple of spectacular waterfalls on the way to Burgess Falls. You can also take a kayak to get to the base of the falls to get that iconic shot of this stunning waterfall. The unique way that the stone ledge jets out in a triangle makes this one of the most dynamic waterfalls in the state. A trip to Burgess Falls State Park never disappoints. Middle Tennessee certainly has a plethora of incredible state parks all of which feature fantastic waterfalls. If you are coming from Nashville you can take a tour of several parks including this one, Fall Creek Falls State Park, Rock Island State Park, and Savage Gulf State Park for one epic trip. There is no doubt that the Cumberland Plateau has unparalleled beauty.
There are lots of Laurel Falls throughout Tennessee but there is only one in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This is my favorite waterfall in the park and as many waterfalls as I have seen this one still ranks up near the top for me. The cascading water is simply breathtaking as it glistens off of the dark stones. The Laurel Falls Trail to get there is fairly simple and accessible but there is even a local secret where you can climb down to the lower falls and get an even more spectacular view. This is one of those waterfalls that everyone should see at least once.
Best Overlooks & Scenic Vistas In Tennessee
Equally as important to me while seeking out natural wonders in Tennessee is a good overlook. There is nothing better than standing on the edge of a massive cliff and looking out to see miles and miles of untouched wilderness. There is just some must-see nature in Tennessee you simply cannot go without if you are a fan of the outdoors. Bring your binoculars and your camera because these are the best overlooks in the state.
Wow Factor: See mountain layers as far as the eye can see
Cost: Free
I have hiked up to Round Bald more than any other hike in Tennessee. It is my absolute favorite and I have done it in every season. Every time has been slightly different but they have all been rewarding. A simple hike up to a bald peak affords a view as far as the eye can see with mountain layer upon mountain layer. In one direction you will have the peaks of North Carolina and on the other side the stunning mountains of Tennessee. The trail is actually part of the Appalachian Trail and you can certainly go further hiking the ridge line from bald to bald we have done that too and I would do it again and again. There isn’t a view like this anywhere else in the state and I highly recommend it.
11. Charles Bunion Peak, The Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The Charles Bunion Peak can be found by traveling along the Appalachian Trail. This trail also has a couple of bonus overlooks because you can start at the Newfound Gap parking lot. This first overlook is as easy as getting out of your car and meandering along the sidewalk, but to take the trail you will be rewarded with far better views. The trail itself is a challenging hike following the ridge line straddling the border between Tennessee and North Carolina in the Great Smoky Mountains. The effort is all worth it once you get to the iconic rock overlooking the misty and forested peaks found in this beautiful national park. Nearby two other popular hikes are the trek up to Clingmans Dome and Alum Cave.
Best Rock Formations In Tennessee
When it comes to finding the best nature in Tennessee sometimes you just have to seek out some good old rock formations. It’s not just caves that get all the cool stones, we have two amazing formations that are must-sees in our state. With the soft limestone being so abundant in Tennessee countless formations are easy to find and fascinating to explore.
Wow Factor: A massive crack in the cliffside making it look like an ancient doorway
Cost: Free
Stone Door is one of the most popular destinations in a natural area that was recognized as its own state park in 2023. Savage Gulf State Park is a fantastic wilderness filled with outdoor activities and adventure around every corner. Among other features here, you can also see Greeter Falls, Blue Hole, and Alum Gap. Before you start your hike to Stone Door I suggest taking the spur trail to see Laurel Falls (I told you there was more than one). This short little side trail takes you to a stunning waterfall before you head to the main attraction in the park. Back on the Stone Door Trail, you will be treated to fantastic views high on the rim overlooking miles of forest. There are bare cliffsides to explore right before you get to Stone Door and a great place to break and just soak in the scenery. The towering walls of Stone Door are fascinating and well worth the visit to a park filled with other amazing natural wonders.
The Twin Arches Loop Trail is exactly what it sounds like, a loop trail featuring not one but two arches in Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area. Known typically as the North and South Arch these beautiful bridges are an exciting find in a wilderness that is just filled with some of the best geological features in the state. The South Arch is the tallest in the state towering 103 feet above the ground! It also spans 135 from the inside base. So it is safe to say this arch is massive and then you still get the second which still soars 62 feet high. Although the main attraction is the arches on the Twin Arches Trail it still has plenty to see along the way. Large cliff walls, otherworldly geological formations, and overlooks are just a few of the things you can expect to see on this hike.
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Unique Natural Wonders In Tennessee
I would like to say I saved the best nature spots in Tennessee for last but this list is already busting at the seams with phenomenal places to visit. However, as I have already stated this list only scratches the surface of the incredible land that we call home. So from lakes to parks, these next two natural wonders in Tennessee hold a very special place in my heart and chances are they do to you as well.
Wow Factor: A clean and beautiful lake framed by lush green mountains
Cost: Free
There is nothing like a day at the lake to drain all the worries of life and let them float away. The first time we visited Watauga Lake we didn’t want to leave. I have never seen a scenic lake this pretty. The glistening water looks like a rolling blanket of diamonds as the small ripples catch the rays of sunlight and the whole lake is framed by lush green mountains. Nestled nicely within the Cherokee National Forest in east Tennessee, this place is beyond your wildest imagination. Sitting on the shoreline and having a picnic while the sun sets behind the peaks has become a favorite activity for my family and me. There is a beach area for swimming and if you want to launch your boat or kayak there are several places to do that too. The history of the lake is a fascinating one about a flooded town lurking beneath the surface of the calm cool waters. However you choose to enjoy this body of water I highly recommend a visit.
15. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Great Smoky Mountains National Park, United States
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is my favorite national park in our country. There is something so magical the second you cross the border and enter the park. I have been countless times all throughout the different seasons and the feeling never goes away. The mountains themselves embody an undeniably attractive culture. You can easily spend a lifetime exploring this park with its many different waterfalls, scenic drives, hiking trails, and history. If you have been then no doubt you have experienced the enchanting allure of this wonderful park. Among some of my favorite places, I would suggest a scenic drive around Cades Cove, hiking Alum Cave, and enjoying 360-degree views from Clingmans Dome, which is the highest point in the park. I love visiting Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, Wears Valley, Sevierville, and Townsend but for me, my heart will always belong in the wilderness of this national park.
These are some of the best natural wonders in Tennessee but, again, this is not an exhaustive list. There are still so many wonderful places that you couldn’t possibly name them all but we have a whole site dedicated to it so make sure you follow along for many more hidden gems and incredible places that will make you fall more in love with the volunteer state.
While exploring these natural wonders in Tennessee one of the best tools I have with me during every hike is the AllTrails app. This handy tool keeps track of where you are on the trail so you don’t get lost and so much more. Also if you plan on traveling all around the state for adventure it helps having a good place to rest your head at the end of the day. For that make sure you check out our friends at Hotels.com for nearby lodging.
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