In my previous post on Burgess Falls from October 2022, I ended the post by saying “Burgess Falls – I will be back!” You can see that post HERE where we kayaked to the bottom of the falls.

Well, sure enough, I made my way back to Burgess Falls! My twin and I recently celebrated a milestone birthday, and we celebrated with a family trip to Tennessee. The first park I took my family to was Burgess Falls! Here, the Falling Water River creates a series of four dramatic waterfalls. 

A .75-mile one-way trail leads along the river and provides overlooks of the river and waterfalls.

The first falls, Falling Water Cascades, are essentially visible from the parking lot.

Pipeline Falls is next, with an old bridge that once provided access to a cave across the river dangles above. 

The trail is rated as difficult, with I think the hardest part being a large staircase right before you reach Hemlock Falls. Shout out to my parents for completing this hike!!! 

There is a great overlook of Hemlock Falls. Take a moment to listen to the rushing water below. 

The trail ends at Burgess Falls, affectionately called “The Queen”. She plunges 136 feet into a circular gorge below. She is majestic!! 

From here, I recommend hiking the .55-mile gravel service road back to the parking lot.  If the main trail is too difficult, you can walk the service road, which provides easier views of the falls. 

Along the service road, the Ridgetop Trail spurs off. This trail is only a quarter mile and provides a few good views into the gorge far below. Since this park is on the smaller side, this is a good trail to add on! 

A couple of things to keep in mind while visiting this state park: 

Be sure to check out this park! It is simply amazing!