Best Waterfall Day Trips in Middle Tennessee
Explore multiple Middle Tennessee waterfalls in a single day with our curated road trip itineraries. Each route includes waterfall details, hiking difficulty, and recommendations for nearby dining and attractions. Perfect for families, photographers, and waterfall enthusiasts looking to maximize their adventure.
Fall Creek Falls State Park Day Trip: Tennessee's #1 Waterfall Destination
Experience five stunning waterfalls in one unforgettable day at Fall Creek Falls State Park. This complete waterfall tour takes you through Tennessee’s most spectacular state park, where you’ll witness some of the tallest and most beautiful cascades in the eastern United States.
Why Fall Creek Falls? Fall Creek Falls State Park offers the best waterfall-per-mile ratio in Middle Tennessee. You can see multiple major waterfalls without driving between towns or navigating confusing backroads. Everything is within the park’s 26,000 acres, with well-marked trails and convenient parking at each trailhead.
The Waterfalls You’ll See:
Fall Creek Falls – The Crown Jewel At 256 feet, this is one of the highest waterfalls east of the Rocky Mountains. The plunge pool and gorge views are absolutely breathtaking. Two viewing options: an easy paved overlook (5-minute walk) or hike down to the base for an up-close experience (strenuous, 2 miles round trip).
Cane Creek Falls – The Hidden Gem
This 85-foot waterfall pours into a stunning gorge surrounded by lush forest. The overlook provides incredible views, and photographers love the morning light here. Easy 0.2-mile walk from parking.
Cane Creek Cascades – The Serene Stop These upper cascades offer a gentler, more intimate waterfall experience. Perfect for a peaceful break between the bigger falls. The short trail winds through beautiful hardwood forest. Easy 0.5-mile walk.
Piney Falls – The Adventure Option Standing 95 feet tall, Piney Falls rewards hikers willing to make the trek. This waterfall sees fewer visitors, giving you a more secluded experience. The trail to the base is challenging but worth every step. Moderate to strenuous, 1 mile round trip.
Cane Creek Gorge Overlook – Bonus Views Not a waterfall, but the panoramic gorge views from this overlook are stunning. You’ll see the creek winding through the canyon far below. Easy roadside stop.
Your Day Trip Itinerary:
Morning (8am-12pm): Start early to beat crowds and catch the best light. Begin with Fall Creek Falls overlook, then head to Cane Creek Falls while you’re fresh. If you’re up for it, hike down to the base of Fall Creek Falls.
Midday (12pm-2pm):
Break for lunch at the park’s restaurant or your picnic spot. Visit the Nature Center to learn about the park’s geology and wildlife.
Afternoon (2pm-5pm) Hit Cane Creek Cascades for an easy walk, then decide if you want to tackle Piney Falls. End your day at the suspension bridge for sunset photos.
Time Needed: Plan for 5-7 hours to see all the major waterfalls comfortably. You can do a shorter 3-4 hour trip if you skip Piney Falls and the base trail at Fall Creek Falls.
Difficulty Levels:
- Overlook views only: Easy – suitable for all ages and mobility levels
- Including base trails: Moderate to Strenuous – requires good fitness and sturdy shoes
What to Bring:
- Sturdy hiking shoes with good tread (trails can be slippery)
- Water and snacks
- Camera with extra battery
- Light rain jacket (waterfalls create mist)
- Sunscreen and bug spray
- Walking stick for steep sections (optional)
Other Activities in the Park:
Beyond waterfalls, Fall Creek Falls offers plenty to fill your day:
- Swimming Pool – Olympic-sized pool open seasonally (summer months)
- Suspension Bridge – Walk across this swaying bridge for gorge views
- Mountain Biking – Miles of trails for all skill levels
- Fishing – Cast a line in Fall Creek Lake (license required)
- Nature Center – Interactive exhibits about local wildlife and geology
- Scenic Drives – Beautiful overlooks accessible by car
Where to Eat:
Inside the Park:
- Fall Creek Falls Inn Restaurant – Full menu with local favorites, great views
- Park Grill (seasonal) – Burgers and quick bites near the pool
Nearby Towns (15-20 minutes):
- Spencer: Several local diners and cafes
- Pikeville: Home-style restaurants and quick stops
Where to Stay:
In the Park:
- Fall Creek Falls Inn – Comfortable lodge rooms with modern amenities
- Cabins – Ranging from basic to luxury, book months ahead for weekends
- Campground – RV and tent sites, some with hookups
Nearby Options:
- Spencer and Pikeville have budget-friendly motels
- Crossville (30 minutes) offers chain hotels
Best Time to Visit:
Spring (March-May): Waterfalls are at peak flow from winter and spring rains. Wildflowers bloom along trails. Can be muddy.
Summer (June-August): Warm weather, swimming pool open, busiest season. Waterfalls may have lower flow during dry spells.
Fall (September-November): Gorgeous leaf colors, comfortable temperatures, excellent photography. Peak fall color is usually mid-October.
Winter (December-February): Fewer crowds, possible ice formations at waterfalls (stunning!). Some trails may be icy – use caution.
Park Information:
- Address: 2009 Village Camp Rd, Pikeville, TN 37367
- Hours: Park open year-round, daylight hours
- Entry Fee: [Check current fees – may be free or minimal]
- Cell Service: Spotty throughout the park – download maps beforehand
Pro Tips:
- Weekdays are much less crowded than weekends
- Start with overlooks first to scout which base trails you want to attempt
- The mist near waterfalls makes rocks extremely slippery – watch your footing
- Fall Creek Falls base trail has steep stairs – know your limits
- Bring a trash bag – help keep these beautiful spots pristine
Nearby Bonus Stops:
If you finish early or want to extend your adventure:
- Virgin Falls (45 minutes away) – Another spectacular Middle Tennessee waterfall
- Cumberland Mountain State Park (30 minutes) – More hiking and a beautiful lake
- Savage Gulf State Natural Area (40 minutes) – Remote wilderness waterfalls
Rock Island State Park & Lost Creek Day Trip: Easy Waterfall Adventure
Discover two of Middle Tennessee’s most unique waterfall experiences in one relaxing day trip. Rock Island State Park delivers powerful cascades and pristine swimming holes, while Lost Creek Falls offers one of nature’s most fascinating phenomena – a waterfall that disappears into an underground cave.
Why This Trip?
This is the perfect waterfall day trip for families and casual hikers. Unlike strenuous waterfall hikes, both locations offer stunning views with minimal walking. You’ll experience the raw power of Great Falls, the beauty of Twin Falls, and the mysterious wonder of Lost Creek’s disappearing waterfall – all without breaking a sweat.
The Waterfalls You’ll See:
Rock Island State Park
Great Falls – The Showstopper Watch the Caney Fork River plunge 30 feet over a historic dam structure, creating a thundering display of power. The mist rising from the falls creates rainbows on sunny days, and the overlook provides perfect photo opportunities. This waterfall is impressive year-round but absolutely roars during spring runoff. Easy overlook access from parking area.
Twin Falls – Double the Beauty Two parallel waterfalls cascade side-by-side into the gorge below. The viewing platform gives you an excellent vantage point to appreciate how these twin streams carved their way through the rock over millennia. These falls are especially photogenic in early morning light. Easy viewing from designated overlook.
Lost Creek Falls – Nature’s Magic Trick
This 40-foot waterfall does something most waterfalls don’t – it vanishes. Lost Creek plunges over a limestone cliff and disappears directly into a cave opening below. You can walk right up to the edge and watch the water swirl into the underground cavern before continuing its journey through the mountain. It’s one of the most unique geological features in Tennessee.
The easy 0.2-mile walk from the small parking area takes you through peaceful forest to the falls. Once there, you can explore the rock ledges and watch the water’s magical disappearing act from multiple angles. The cave opening is large enough to see into (but never enter – it’s extremely dangerous).
Your Day Trip Itinerary:
Summer Visit Order (May-September): Start with Lost Creek Falls in the morning while it’s cooler, then head to Rock Island for waterfall viewing and afternoon swimming. The gorge closes at 6pm, so plan accordingly.
Spring/Fall/Winter Order: Start at Rock Island State Park in the morning for the best light on Great Falls, then visit Lost Creek Falls in the afternoon.
Morning at Rock Island (9am-12pm): Arrive early to beat crowds. Start with Great Falls overlook, then walk to Twin Falls. Explore the Collins River cascades if you have time. If it’s summer, save swimming for after lunch.
Lunch: Pack a picnic to enjoy at Rock Island’s scenic picnic areas, or head into McMinnville (15 minutes away) for restaurant options.
Afternoon at Lost Creek (1pm-3pm): Drive 30 minutes to Lost Creek Falls (note: this is a remote, desolate road with no services – fill your gas tank beforehand). Enjoy the short walk to the disappearing waterfall and spend time exploring the area. The peaceful setting is perfect for photos and simply soaking in nature’s wonder.
Late Afternoon – Summer Only: Return to Rock Island for swimming before the 6pm gorge closure.
Time Needed:
- Rock Island: 2-3 hours (longer if swimming)
- Lost Creek: 1-1.5 hours
- Drive time between locations: 30 minutes
- Total trip: 5-6 hours including lunch
Difficulty Levels: Easy – All waterfalls are accessible with minimal walking. Rock Island has paved paths to overlooks. Lost Creek is a short 0.2-mile walk on an easy trail. Suitable for all ages and most mobility levels.
What to Bring:
- Camera with extra battery/memory card
- Water and snacks (no services at Lost Creek)
- Comfortable walking shoes (trails can be uneven)
- Sunscreen and insect repellent
- Towel and swimsuit (summer visits)
- Water shoes for swimming areas
- Full tank of gas (Lost Creek is remote)
Swimming at Rock Island State Park:
Rock Island is famous for its pristine swimming holes in the Caney Fork River. The crystal-clear, spring-fed water stays refreshingly cool even in summer heat.
Blue Hole – The most popular swimming spot, located below the dam. Deep, clear water perfect for swimming and cliff jumping (use caution and know the water).
The Gorge – Multiple swimming areas along the waterfalls in the gorge. Also a swimming area (Beach) inside the park.
Important Swimming Notes:
- Gorge closes at 6pm sharp – plan accordingly
- Water can be cold even in summer (spring-fed)
- Current can be strong near the dam – stay in designated areas
- No lifeguards on duty – swim at your own risk
- Water levels fluctuate based on dam releases
Other Activities:
At Rock Island:
- Kayaking/Paddling – Launch from the park to explore the Caney Fork River
- Fishing – Excellent trout fishing below the dam (license required)
- Picnicking – Multiple pavilions and scenic spots
- Hiking – Several short nature trails throughout the park
- Photography – Stunning gorge views and waterfall shots
At Lost Creek:
- Wildlife Watching – Remote location means abundant birds and deer
- Geology Study – Fascinating karst limestone formations
- Peaceful Meditation – Rarely crowded, perfect for quiet reflection
Where to Eat:
McMinnville (15 minutes from Rock Island): McMinnville offers the best dining options for this trip, with everything from home-style Southern cooking to quick bites.
- Local diners serving country cooking and plate lunches
- Fast food options for quick stops
- Coffee shops for morning fuel
- Grocery stores to grab picnic supplies
Important Note: There are NO restaurants, gas stations, or services near Lost Creek Falls. It’s truly remote. Plan accordingly.
Where to Stay:
Rock Island State Park:
- Primitive camping only (no hookups)
- First-come, first-served sites
- Beautiful riverside locations
McMinnville Area:
- Several chain hotels and motels
- Bed & breakfasts in the historic downtown
- Vacation rentals
Sparta Area (closer to Lost Creek):
- Budget-friendly motels
- Chain hotels
- Limited options compared to McMinnville
Best Time to Visit:
Spring (March-May): Waterfalls are at peak flow from winter and spring rains. Lost Creek’s disappearing act is most dramatic with high water volume. Wildflowers bloom along trails. Water too cold for comfortable swimming.
Summer (June-August): Perfect for combining waterfall viewing with swimming at Rock Island. Lost Creek may have lower flow during dry periods but the disappearing cave is still impressive. This is peak season – expect crowds at Rock Island on weekends.
Fall (September-November): Gorgeous foliage surrounds both locations. Comfortable temperatures for hiking. Water still warm enough for swimming in early fall. Mid-October offers peak fall colors.
Winter (December-February): Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere. Potential for ice formations at the waterfalls (spectacular photography). Lost Creek can partially freeze, creating unique ice sculptures. Swimming not recommended.
Location Information:
Rock Island State Park:
- Address: 82 Beach Rd, Rock Island, TN 38581
- Hours: 8am-sunset; Gorge area closes at 6pm
- Entry Fee: Free admission
- Facilities: Restrooms, picnic areas, camping
- Cell Service: Generally good
Lost Creek Falls:
- Address/Directions: From Sparta, take Hwy 111 South, turn on Cane Creek Rd, follow to Lost Creek Rd
- Hours: Dawn to dusk (no gate)
- Entry Fee: Free
- Facilities: Small gravel parking area, NO restrooms or services
- Cell Service: Limited to none
- Road Conditions: Remote, winding, desolate road – fill gas tank first
Drive Between Locations: Approximately 30 minutes. The route to Lost Creek takes you through beautiful countryside but is quite remote. You won’t pass gas stations or stores for long stretches.
Pro Tips:
- Fill your gas tank before heading to Lost Creek – seriously, it’s remote
- Visit Rock Island on weekdays to avoid summer crowds
- The rocks around all waterfalls can be slippery – watch your footing
- Lost Creek parking is limited (fits about 10 cars) – arrive early on nice weekends
- Bring bug spray for Lost Creek – the cave area attracts mosquitoes
- Don’t attempt to enter Lost Creek cave – it’s extremely dangerous
- Check recent rain – Lost Creek is most impressive with good water flow
- The Rock Island gorge closes at 6pm sharp – rangers will clear the area
Safety Reminders:
- Stay on designated trails and viewing areas
- Never enter the Lost Creek cave opening
- Supervise children closely near cliff edges
- Be aware of swift currents when swimming at Rock Island
- No alcohol allowed in Tennessee State Parks
- Pack out all trash – keep these natural areas beautiful
Photography Tips:
- Best light at Great Falls: morning (east-facing)
- Lost Creek cave opening photographs well with a flash or extra lighting
- Bring a polarizing filter to cut glare off the water
- Tripod helpful for waterfall long-exposures
- The Blue Hole at Rock Island makes stunning aerial shots (if you have a drone)
Nearby Extensions:
If you finish early or want to add more to your adventure:
- Burgess Falls State Park (45 minutes from Rock Island) – Spectacular 136-foot waterfall
- Virgin Falls (20 minutes from Lost Creek) – Challenging 8-mile hike for serious adventurers
- Cumberland Caverns (near McMinnville) – Underground cave tours
- Short Mountain Distillery (Woodbury) – Tennessee whiskey tastings
Manchester & Tullahoma Waterfalls Day Trip: Cascades & Ancient History
Explore five beautiful waterfalls in one incredible day while walking through 2,000 years of Native American history. This perfect day trip combines easy strolls and moderate hikes through some of Middle Tennessee’s most scenic areas, with waterfalls ranging from gentle cascades to powerful 60-foot plunges.
Why This Trip?
The Manchester/Tullahoma area packs an amazing variety into a small geographic area. All locations are within 20 minutes of each other, making this an efficient and rewarding day trip. You’ll see intimate swimming hole waterfalls, dramatic gorge cascades, and explore an ancient ceremonial site while collecting five waterfalls in your adventure log.
The Waterfalls You’ll See:
Rutledge Falls – The Swimming Hole
This charming 15-foot waterfall creates one of the most inviting swimming holes in Middle Tennessee. The wide cascade flows over layered limestone into a crystal-clear pool perfect for cooling off on hot days. During lower water levels, you can walk right up to the falls and feel the spray.
The setting feels like a hidden paradise, with rock ledges for sunbathing and shallow areas safe for kids. Despite being on private property, the landowners graciously allow public access – please respect this privilege by leaving no trace.
Access: Super easy! Just 0.2 miles (5-10 minutes) from the small parking area. Mostly flat with a few rocky sections near the falls. Perfect for families and all skill levels.
Machine Falls – The Show-Stopper
At 60 feet tall, Machine Falls is the crown jewel of the Short Springs Natural Area. This powerful waterfall plunges into a stunning gorge surrounded by lush hemlock forest. The falls create a constant cool breeze and misty atmosphere that feels refreshing even on the hottest summer days.
The hike takes you through beautiful hardwood forest and along rocky bluffs with gorge views. You’ll hear the falls long before you see them – the roar echoes through the canyon. When you finally round the bend and see Machine Falls in full view, it takes your breath away.
Access: Moderate hike, approximately 1.6 miles round trip. The trail includes some elevation changes and rocky sections. Good fitness level recommended. Allow 1-2 hours for the hike and waterfall viewing.
Old Stone Fort State Park – Triple Waterfall Bonus
This 876-acre park sits at the confluence of the Duck River and Little Duck River, creating multiple waterfalls within easy walking distance. But the waterfalls are just part of the story – you’re walking through an ancient Native American ceremonial site built between 80 and 550 AD.
Big Falls (30 feet) – The largest waterfall in the park, this impressive cascade on the Little Duck River creates a wide curtain of water. The viewing area gives you excellent photo opportunities and the sound is wonderfully peaceful.
Blue Hole Falls – A smaller but beautiful waterfall that flows into a deep, blue-green pool. The name says it all – the water color is stunning on sunny days. Popular photography spot.
Step Falls – A series of cascading ledges where water tumbles down multiple rock steps. Not as tall as Big Falls but equally photogenic, especially with fall colors or spring wildflowers.
The 1.5-mile interpretive trail loops around the ancient walls and earthworks while taking you to all three waterfalls. Educational signs explain the archaeological significance and theories about how this ceremonial site was used.
Access: Easy walking on mostly level, well-maintained trails. The full loop is 1.5 miles and suitable for most fitness levels. Some sections have stairs.
Your Day Trip Itinerary:
Morning – Start Easy (9am-10am): Begin at Rutledge Falls while you’re fresh. The short walk makes this a perfect warm-up. Take photos, wade in the pool if it’s warm, and enjoy the peaceful setting. If visiting in summer, make a mental note to return for swimming later.
Mid-Morning – The Challenge (10am-12pm): Drive 5 minutes to Machine Falls at Short Springs Natural Area. Tackle the moderate hike while you have energy. Take your time on the trail, enjoy the forest, and spend quality time at the impressive 60-foot falls. This is your main hiking activity for the day.
Lunch (12pm-1pm): Head into Manchester or Tullahoma (both 10-15 minutes away) for lunch. Lots of local restaurant options.
Afternoon – History & Waterfalls (1:30pm-4pm): Visit Old Stone Fort State Park. Walk the interpretive loop to see all three waterfalls while learning about the ancient ceremonial site. The easy trail and fascinating history make this a relaxing way to end your waterfall hunting. Visit the museum if you’re interested in more archaeological information.
Late Afternoon – Summer Option (4pm-5:30pm): Return to Rutledge Falls for swimming and relaxing after your active day.
Time Needed:
- Rutledge Falls: 30-45 minutes (longer if swimming)
- Machine Falls: 2-2.5 hours including hike
- Old Stone Fort: 2-3 hours including museum
- Drive times between locations: 5-20 minutes each
- Total trip: 6-8 hours including lunch
Difficulty Levels:
- Rutledge Falls: Easy – 0.2 mile, mostly flat
- Machine Falls: Moderate – 1.6 miles with elevation changes and rocky terrain
- Old Stone Fort: Easy – 1.5 miles on maintained trails with some stairs
What to Bring:
- Sturdy hiking shoes with good tread (Machine Falls trail can be slippery)
- Water bottles – at least 1 liter per person
- Trail snacks and energy bars
- Camera with extra battery
- Swimsuit and towel (summer visits)
- Water shoes for Rutledge Falls swimming
- Bug spray (especially spring/summer)
- Sunscreen
- Small backpack for carrying supplies
- Walking stick (optional, helpful for Machine Falls trail)
Swimming at Rutledge Falls:
Rutledge Falls offers one of the best waterfall swimming experiences in Middle Tennessee. The pool is deep enough for swimming but has shallow edges perfect for wading and kids.
Best Swimming Months: May through September when water is warmest
What to Know:
- Water stays cool even in summer (feels amazing on hot days!)
- Rocky bottom – water shoes highly recommended
- During high water, current can be strong – use caution
- Popular spot on summer weekends – arrive early for parking
- No lifeguards – swim at your own risk
- This is private property generously shared – respect it
Other Activities:
At Old Stone Fort State Park:
- Museum – Excellent exhibits about the site’s archaeology and Native American history
- Fishing – Duck River and Little Duck River (license required)
- Picnicking – Multiple pavilions and scenic spots
- Bird Watching – Over 200 species recorded in the park
- Golf Course – 9-hole course adjacent to park
- Camping – Modern campground with hookups
At Short Springs Natural Area:
- Additional Hiking – Several other trails to explore beyond Machine Falls
- Wildlife Watching – Diverse forest ecosystem
- Photography – Stunning gorge views and forest scenes
Where to Eat:
Manchester (closest to Old Stone Fort):
- Local Southern cooking and diners
- Chain restaurants along I-24
- Barbecue joints
- Coffee shops downtown
- Fast food options
Tullahoma (closest to Machine Falls and Rutledge):
- Home-style restaurants
- Mexican and Italian options
- Sandwich shops and delis
- Chain restaurants
- Local cafes
Both towns offer grocery stores if you prefer to pack a picnic for Old Stone Fort’s scenic picnic areas.
Where to Stay:
Manchester:
- Chain hotels near I-24
- Budget-friendly motels
- Camping at Old Stone Fort State Park
Tullahoma:
- Several hotel options
- Bed & breakfasts
- Vacation rentals
Nearby:
- Lynchburg (20 minutes) – Home of Jack Daniel’s Distillery, charming B&Bs
Best Time to Visit:
Spring (March-May): Waterfalls are at maximum flow from winter and spring rains. Machine Falls is absolutely thunderous. Wildflowers bloom along trails at Old Stone Fort. Water still too cold for comfortable swimming at Rutledge Falls. This is peak waterfall season!
Summer (June-August): Perfect for swimming at Rutledge Falls. Machine Falls and Old Stone Fort provide shaded, cool environments. Waterfalls may have reduced flow during dry spells but still beautiful. Most crowded season at Rutledge Falls on weekends.
Fall (September-November): Gorgeous leaf colors at all locations. Comfortable hiking temperatures. Water warm enough for swimming in early fall. Mid-October offers peak fall foliage – the Machine Falls gorge is especially stunning with autumn colors.
Winter (December-February): Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere. Machine Falls can have impressive ice formations. Old Stone Fort trails may be muddy. Swimming not recommended. Good for photography if you don’t mind cold.
Location Information:
Rutledge Falls:
- Address/Directions: From Tullahoma, take Rutledge Falls Rd off Old Manchester Hwy
- Hours: Dawn to dusk
- Entry Fee: Free (private property, public access allowed)
- Facilities: Small gravel parking area (limited spaces), NO restrooms
- Cell Service: Generally good
Machine Falls (Short Springs Natural Area):
- Address: Short Springs Rd, Tullahoma, TN 37388
- Trailhead: Machine Falls trailhead parking area
- Hours: Dawn to dusk
- Entry Fee: Free
- Facilities: Parking area, NO restrooms at trailhead
- Cell Service: Good at parking, spotty on trail
Old Stone Fort State Park:
- Address: 732 Stone Fort Dr, Manchester, TN 37355
- Hours: Park open 8am-sunset; Museum hours vary seasonally
- Entry Fee: Free admission
- Facilities: Restrooms, museum, picnic areas, camping, playground
- Cell Service: Good throughout park
Driving Distances:
- Rutledge Falls to Machine Falls: 5 minutes
- Machine Falls to Old Stone Fort: 15-20 minutes
- All locations form a compact triangle – very efficient trip!
Pro Tips:
- Start with Rutledge Falls as your warm-up – it’s easy and builds excitement
- Wear proper hiking boots for Machine Falls – the trail has steep, rocky sections
- The Machine Falls trail can be slippery after rain – use caution
- Rutledge Falls parking is VERY limited (5-6 cars max) – arrive early on nice weekends
- Respect the private property at Rutledge Falls – pack out ALL trash, no glass containers
- Download the Old Stone Fort interpretive guide before visiting for better experience
- Machine Falls is most impressive after recent rain
- Bring insect repellent – mosquitoes can be thick near the waterfalls in summer
- Old Stone Fort Museum has clean restrooms – use them before starting the loop trail
Safety Reminders:
- Machine Falls trail has steep drop-offs – watch your footing and supervise children closely
- Rocks near all waterfalls are extremely slippery – never stand directly under falls
- Flash flooding can occur during heavy rain – check weather before visiting
- No diving at Rutledge Falls – underwater hazards exist
- Stay on marked trails at Old Stone Fort to protect archaeological features
- During high water at Rutledge Falls, stay out of the current
- Bring plenty of water for Machine Falls hike – no services on trail
Photography Tips:
- Machine Falls: Best light in late morning when sun penetrates the gorge
- Rutledge Falls: Morning or late afternoon for best lighting on the falls
- Old Stone Fort: Blue Hole Falls photographs beautifully in midday sun
- Bring a polarizing filter to reduce water glare
- Tripod useful for long-exposure waterfall shots
- The ancient walls at Old Stone Fort make unique foreground elements
Respecting Rutledge Falls (IMPORTANT): This waterfall is on private property. The landowners generously allow public access, which is rare and special. Please help preserve this privilege:
- Pack out every bit of trash – leave no trace
- No littering, graffiti, or vandalism
- No glass containers (broken glass is dangerous)
- Respect posted signs and boundaries
- Be courteous to other visitors
- No loud music or parties
- If the property ever closes to public, respect that decision
Cultural Respect at Old Stone Fort: You’re walking through a sacred ceremonial site built by Native peoples 2,000 years ago. Please:
- Stay on designated trails to protect archaeological features
- Don’t climb on or disturb the ancient walls
- Read interpretive signs to understand the significance
- Visit the museum to learn about the Woodland Period peoples who built this site
- Appreciate that this was a place of ceremony and significance
Nearby Extensions:
If you finish early or want to extend your waterfall adventure:
- Tims Ford State Park (20 minutes) – Beautiful lake, no major waterfalls but scenic
- Jack Daniel’s Distillery (20 minutes to Lynchburg) – Famous whiskey distillery tours
- Fiery Gizzard Trail (45 minutes) – Challenging hiking with multiple waterfalls
- Foster Falls (45 minutes) – Stunning 60-foot waterfall, popular climbing area
Why This Trip is Special:
Most waterfall day trips focus purely on the falls, but this Manchester/Tullahoma trip gives you something extra – a connection to Middle Tennessee’s ancient past. Standing inside the Old Stone Fort’s earthwork walls, knowing that Native peoples gathered here for ceremonies nearly 2,000 years ago, adds profound meaning to your day. You’re not just waterfall hunting – you’re walking through history while experiencing some of the region’s most beautiful natural features.
The variety also makes this trip special. You get an easy roadside waterfall, a challenging gorge hike, and a relaxed historical walk – all showcasing different types of waterfalls and landscapes. Whether you’re a serious hiker, casual nature lover, or history enthusiast, this trip offers something memorable.