Burgess Falls Trail Sparta Tn.

Burgess Falls State Park: Four Stunning Waterfalls Near Sparta, Tennessee

Discover one of Tennessee’s most spectacular waterfall destinations at Burgess Falls State Park. The park features four breathtaking waterfalls—20-foot cascades, 30-foot upper falls, 80-foot middle falls, and a stunning 136-foot lower falls—all accessible via family-friendly hiking trails. Located on the Falling Water River, waterfalls cascade down from over 250 feet in elevation creating a dramatic natural showcase. Feel free to submit a trail and pictures.

Trail Details:

• River Trail/Service Road Loop: 1.5-mile moderately strenuous loop taking visitors past all four waterfalls.
• Ridge Top Trail: Half-mile scenic trail with views down the main canyon of Falling Water River.
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate; suitable for families and casual hikers
• Trail Type: Choice of paved accessible path or natural unpaved trail

Park Hours: Open 8 AM – 6 PM CT daily

What to Expect: The trails are very well maintained and offer a good option for families or casual hikers, with each waterfall having a nice viewpoint Scott’s Gulf Wilderness State Park — Tennessee State Parks. The main attraction, Burgess Falls, features an overlook platform and stairs leading down to the top of the falls. There is no access to the base of the falls from within the park—the base can be accessed by boat or kayak from the Cane Hollow Recreation Area Virgin Falls. Only 30 Minute drive from Rock Island.

Facilities & Amenities:

• Restrooms: Located near the main trails for convenience.
• Picnic Areas: Multiple picnic areas with grills conveniently located near restrooms.
• Pavilion: Large covered pavilion equipped with grills and tables can be reserved for large groups with scenic river views.
• Playground: Available near parking area
• Swimming: No designated swim area; swimming is not permitted. However, there is a swimming area near the main parking lot, perfect for cooling off in the rapids Scott’s Gulf Wilderness State Park — Tennessee State Parks
• Fishing: Popular below the dam and main waterfall along the bank and at the fishing pier (Tennessee fishing license required)

Important Visitor Information:

• Parking: Limited parking available during construction of new Visitor Center; arrive early during peak times.
• Dogs: Dog friendly; pets allowed on leash.
• Best Time to Visit: Spring through autumn; weekdays are less crowded
• Admission: Free
• Type: Day-use park (no camping)

Additional Activities:

• Native Butterfly Garden near upper parking area
• Wildlife and wildflower viewing
• Kayak tours available (third-party operators)

Contact: Phone: (931) 432-5312 Virgin Falls State Natural Area Loop, Sparta, Tennessee

Perfect for families seeking an accessible waterfall adventure with spectacular views and well-maintained trails!