This Tennessee Waterfall Is So Hidden, Almost Nobody Has Seen It In Person
By Meghan Kraft|Published February 26, 2022
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Meghan Kraft
Author
Meghan Kraft loves to travel the world, but she makes her home right here in Nashville, Tennessee. She holds a degree in English, and has worked in the digital marketing realm with companies such as Apartments.com, USA Today and HarperCollins Publishing.
Tennessee is known for its natural beauty, so much so that many of the state’s tourists come to experience hiking trails and mountainous overlooks. If you’re looking for a hiking trail that isn’t crawling with locals and out-of-state visitors, then lace up your hiking boots and head to Collins Gulf. Suter Falls, a stunning, remote waterfall, can be found along the way. The waterfall is not only beautiful but tucked away so far in the wilderness that you’re bound to be the only one there.
The hike along Collins Gulf at South Cumberland State Park is one of the most difficult in Grundy County, with a length of 12 miles and an impressive advancement in altitude. You will climb a whopping 1,755 feet in elevation along the loop trail.
Adventurers can access the trail throughout the year, and it is most often utilized for trail running, hiking, backpacking, and nature walking. Birdwatchers enjoy the remote location, and since the trail is dog friendly, you may find a few furry friends along the way.
Keep in mind that the Collins Gulf hike is considered quite difficult and is recommended for only the most experienced hikers. Be prepared to hug ridgelines and scramble across mossy rocks and boulders along the way. Visitors claim it’s easy to get lost, so make sure you’re paying close attention to the trail.
Collins Gulf is in one of three rocky gorges situated in the South Cumberland State Park, and Suter Falls, a 40-foot waterfall along the Rocky Mountain Creek, is one of the most beautiful landmarks along the hiking trail. You will also cross by Horsepound Falls and will have the chance to ogle at the sinks on both Fall Creek and Collins River.
This particular hike is so remote and difficult that there are very few folks who have managed to make their way to Suter Falls itself. There are four waterfalls along the Collins Gulf Loop in total. Make sure to bring snacks and the correct gear! The entirety of the hike should take around eight hours.
Most visitors choose to hike Collins Gulf in the spring and summer, but during the autumn you’ll have the chance to view trees during the peak of fall color. The winter promises breathtaking views studded with icicles, but you may want to bring ankle supports and trekking poles for the rockier parts of the trail.
The hike along Collins Gulf is difficult but the many waterfalls and creeks make the experience truly magical. Make sure to take photos of Suter Falls, and breathe deeply as you take in the beauty of Tennessee in one of its most remote places.
What a beautiful place to spend a day! Make sure to double-check the conditions before you go, and keep an eye on updates from South Cumberland State Park. Camping is available in the park as well, though not along the trail.
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