If you're anything like us, you've likely researched "waterfalls near me" while traveling through Tennessee. When it comes to finding natural beauty in Tennessee, you don't have to look far. The Volunteer State is studded with natural areas and state-protected parks that promise lush hiking trails and gushing waterfalls. Stinging Fork Falls Natural Area is located in Rhea County and is a 783-acre natural space rife with steep cliffs and oak-pine forest. It's a dream to visit, especially if you hike the Stinging Fork Falls Trail.
The hike to Stinging Fork Falls is both heavily trafficked and moderately difficult. Be aware that the out-and-back trail structure promises a 344 elevation gain that can be quite difficult for some.
The trail itself is roughly 1.5 miles and is best utilized from the months of March to October for the weather. It's a great trail for dogs if they're kept on a leash, and it's been reported that spring wildflowers along the trail rival the stunning Stinging Fork Falls itself.
Stinging Fork Falls can be found in a heavily forested and quiet cove roughly 3/4 of a mile into the hike. Keep an eye out for the mountain laurels in bloom in late spring, and you might just see a few other waterfalls along the way. There are a few smaller, lesser-known falls you can see from the trail.
Keep in mind that though the trail is short, it does descend rapidly as you start out. You'll be hiking down to the creek, then will experience a large elevation gain as you trek it back to the mouth of the trail. The trail is initially rocky but levels into a mossy, leaf-strewn paradise.
Stinging Fork Falls is roughly 35-feet in height, and is located in the aptly named Stinging Fork Falls Natural Area. The space is protected by the state so make sure you don't leave any trash or refuse from animals. Keep the forested natural area beautiful, friends! It's a true Tennessee gem.
Let's get one more waterfall angle here...there we go. What a dream. Can you imagine swimming in that perfectly chilled natural pool? It's a dream!
You can visit for yourself all year long, but we'd recommend traversing the trail during the warmer months. Stinging Fork Falls Natural Area is open to the public for day-use only, though no camping is permitted.
You can learn more about Stinging Fork Falls with a visit to Tennessee's official state natural area site. We hope this lovely little waterfall comes to mind the next time you're searching "waterfalls near me."
Find more fun in the heart of Tennessee's natural beauty with a visit to Stillhouse Hollow Falls, a natural swimming hole just outside of Columbia.
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