Fall Creek Falls

Weekends like this allow even the most novice hiker to enjoy a easy walk in the woods. I began my hike around 7:30am, with temperatures in the upper 60's, a layer of high thin clouds, and little wind. The route I took from the Inn to the falls was mostly paved and had little elevation gain or loss for most of the 2.5 mls, oneway. Now the descent to the base of the falls was steep and rocky requiring close attention to this approximately 1/2ml unpaved section. And made for some good "cardio work" coming out.
This Tennessee state park is located in Bledsoe and Van Buren counties, 11 miles east of Spencer and 18 miles west of Pikeville. It may be entered from Highway 111 or Highway 30, which can be accessed from I-24, or I-40, (click the link for the address)

Fall Creek Falls consist of more than 20,000 acres sitting across the eastern top of the rugged Cumberland Plateau, and is considered one of the most scenic SP's in America. The falls which the park is named after is the highest waterfall, at 256', in the eastern united states. Oak and Hickory forest atop the plateau fade into Tulip and Hemlock forest in the gorges. These protected areas within the park support abundant species diversity in both plant and animal life including Mountain Laurel and Rodo's.
May the forest be with you.