On a recent trip to Tennessee, we took a drive to Short Springs Natural Area near Tullahoma, Tennessee. This area is about an hour and a half from Nashville. The parking lot is located under the large water tower on Short Springs Road. There is over 6 miles of trails here. One of the most notable features in this natural area is Machine Falls.

The trails are well signed so we followed the signs to Machine Falls. When you reach the creek, there is a bridge, but in order to see the falls, don’t cross the bridge just yet.

Hike along the creek for just a little bit and when you round the corner, Machine Falls will come into view. The falls are tucked back into the canyon, but the multi-tiered falls tower above you.

I loved the creek and the falls! It was so beautiful!

^ Amy & David! ^

After checking out the falls, we headed back to cross over the bridge. From here, the trail leads uphill to an overlook of Machine Falls.

The trail follows a creek for a while before returning to the trailhead. There are two other trails here, Busby Falls and Laurel Bluff, and I can’t wait to come back and hike these trails!

I found a really good trail map located HERE. Be sure to check out their post on Short Springs Natural Area as well! Also while you are in the area, be sure to check out Rutledge Falls and Old Stone Fort Archealogy Site!

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