Fall Creek Falls (Piney Creek Falls) Spencer Tn

Located in Fall Creek Falls State Park: Experience one of Tennessee’s most dramatic waterfalls at Piney Creek Falls, a 95-foot waterfall made up of several cascades both at the top and bottom, with one large plunge in the center . This stunning cascade offers breathtaking gorge views and is perfect for hikers seeking a quick, rewarding waterfall experience with minimal effort. The quickest way to see Piney Creek Falls is to hike the short 0.2-mile Piney Creek Falls Trail on the far right of the parking lot to the canyon overlook. From here, you get a distant view of the falls, but it’s a great way to take in the enormity of the gorge carved by the flow of Piney Creek. The suspension bridge is on the trail to the left of the parking lot, about .3 miles. Beyond the bridge there is the most beautify scenic trail that goes under the bridge leads you through the woods to the top of the Piney creek waterfall. .6 miles round trip.

Waterfall Details:

• Height: 95 feet total height
• Type: Multi-tiered cascade with plunge waterfall
• Best Viewing: From overlook platform above the falls
• Water Flow: Most impressive after rainfall; can be reduced during dry periods

Trail Options:

Piney Creek Falls Overlook (Easiest & Most Popular):

• Distance: 0.2-mile out-and-back from parking lot
• Difficulty: Easy; short walk suitable for all ages
• Hiking Time: 15-30 minutes roundtrip
• Features: Overlook platform with distant view of falls and gorge

Piney Creek Falls via Suspension Bridge:

• Distance: 0.6-mile roundtrip Tennessee State Parks
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Hiking Time: 30-60 minutes
• Elevation Gain: 147 feet Tennessee State Parks
• Features: Scenic suspension bridge crossing; closer waterfall views

From Fall Creek Falls Overlook (Extended Hike):

• Distance: 0.9 miles one-way from Fall Creek Falls Overlook; 1.85 miles from Fall Creek Falls parking lot
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate
• Surface: Paved bike trail/walking path
• Features: Connects two major waterfalls

Natural Features: The waterfall flows through a dramatic gorge carved into the Cumberland Plateau, surrounded by oak and hickory forests. Mountain bike trails pass through stands of holly, rhododendron, and developing pine trees near the falls area Tn. The overlook provides panoramic views of Piney Creek’s deep gorge and the surrounding wilderness.

Facilities & Amenities:

• Restrooms: Available at Visitor Center
• Parking: Designated parking lot at trailhead; limited spaces
• Picnic Areas: Available throughout Fall Creek Falls State Park
• Camping: Piney Backcountry Campsites available with reservation (backcountry permits required)
• Dogs: Allowed on leash

Important Visitor Information:

• Best Time to Visit: Spring after rainfall for peak water flow; fall for autumn foliage
• What to Bring: Sturdy walking shoes, water, camera, binoculars for wildlife viewing
• Safety: Keep an eye on young children at overlooks; the gorge drops dramatically
• Swimming: Not accessible for swimming due to gorge location
• Photography: Excellent waterfall and gorge photography from overlook platform
• Accessibility: Short overlook trail is relatively accessible but check with park for ADA details

Nearby Waterfalls in Fall Creek Falls State Park:

• Fall Creek Falls (256 feet – highest free-fall waterfall east of Mississippi)
• Cane Creek Falls (85 feet)
• Cane Creek Cascades (45 feet)
• Rockhouse Falls (125 feet)
• Coon Creek Falls

Park Contact: Phone: 423-881-5298 Nature Center/Trails: 423-881-5708

Nearby Attractions: Fall Creek Falls State Park features over 56 miles of hiking trails, a championship golf course, zip line canopy tour, boat rentals on Fall Creek Falls Lake, Betty Dunn Nature Center, and full-service lodge with restaurant. Millikan’s Overlook offers dramatic 360-degree views of Cane Creek Gorge and is located nearby.

Perfect for families, casual hikers, and waterfall enthusiasts seeking an easy, accessible waterfall experience with dramatic gorge views in Tennessee’s largest and most visited state park!