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.

Rebecca Dickerson - AllTrails
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.
Karl Whipp - AllTrails
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.
Hiking Smurfette - AllTrails
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.

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Karl Whipp - AllTrails
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.
Meredith Odell - AllTrails
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.
Dipen Dave - AllTrails
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!
Kebil00 - Flickr
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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Beth C. | March 22, 2022

What are the best waterfall trails in Tennessee?

One of the best parts about living in or visiting Tennessee is the plethora of natural wonders just beyond your doorstep. No matter which part of the state you're exploring, you're likely to encounter some truly breathtaking scenery. Now that you've learned about Stinging Fork Falls, you might be curious to explore more of Tennessee's waterfalls. Fortunately, you'll find there are tons of them, many of which are accessible via hiking. If you're looking for an easy waterfall hike, Cane Creek Falls is the one for you. Located in the namesake Cane Creek Falls State Park, this beautiful waterfall near Pikeville is perfect for the kiddos. Up for more of a challenge? You'll want to try your hand at Virgin Falls near Sparta, situated within the Virgin Falls State Natural Area. This hike is no joke, clocking in at 8.3 miles, but you can rest assured that your effort will be well rewarded with this stunning waterfall. Next up on our list of the best waterfall trails in Tennessee would be Burgess Falls located near Baxter, Tennessee. This breathtaking waterfall can be reached via a 1-mile trail -- perfect for a quick afternoon outing. Some other waterfall trails in Tennessee worth exploring include Greeter Falls in Altamont, Ozone Falls near Crab Orchard, Abrams Falls in Townsend, Hen Wallow Falls in Cosby, Grotto Falls, Cummins Falls near Nashville (this is perhaps the most popular waterfall hike in Tennessee!), and Twin Falls in Rock Island State Park. Curious to learn more about these awesome trails? Check out our previous article for all the details: The Ultimate Bucket List For Anyone In Tennessee Who Loves Waterfall Hikes.

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Stinging Fork Falls State Natural Area, Tennessee 37381, USA