Tennessee is packed with waterfalls, but let’s be real…most people only hit the big names.
But what if I told you some of the best waterfalls in the state are hiding in quiet forests, down secret trails, or even pouring out of caves?
Yep, these spots are just as jaw-dropping, and chances are, you’ve never even heard of them.
We’re talking hidden gems with no crowds, crazy-cool features, and just the right amount of adventure.
So get ready to explore 9 of the most underrated waterfalls in Tennessee, you’re gonna want to add every single one to your list.
1. Suter Falls
Suter Falls is a 50-foot waterfall tucked inside the Savage Gulf State Natural Area, about 80 minutes northwest of Chattanooga.
You’ll find it along the Collins Gulf Trail, which begins about 0.4 miles from the Collins West parking lot and takes you through lush forest, rocky bluffs, and a swinging bridge.
What makes Suter Falls extra cool is how the water free-falls off a rock ledge into a deep, shaded pool surrounded by rugged cliffs.
This spot is way less crowded than nearby Greeter Falls, so if you’re looking for a peaceful picnic break with a waterfall view, this one’s perfect.
2. Piney Creek Falls
Next up is Piney Creek Falls, a stunner hidden inside Fall Creek Falls State Park, about 2 hours east of Nashville.
This one’s a 95-foot cascade that roars through a narrow gorge, and while you can’t hike down to the base, the overlook trail (just 0.2 miles!) gives you a jaw-dropping view from above.
There’s also a super fun suspension bridge nearby that swings over Piney Creek, perfect for snapping photos or pretending you’re in an Indiana Jones movie.
3. Northrup Falls
Now let’s talk about Northrup Falls, a super scenic 60-foot waterfall tucked into Colditz Cove State Natural Area, just outside the tiny town of Jamestown.
The loop trail to get there is only 1.3 miles, and it leads you through hemlock groves, sandstone cliffs, and even behind the falls.
This place feels like a hidden pocket of wilderness, with way fewer crowds than the bigger state parks and tons of cool rock formations to explore.
Keep your eyes out for salamanders and wildflowers along the trail, especially in spring when the forest basically turns into a nature show.
4. Virgin Falls
If you’re up for a challenge, Virgin Falls is the kind of waterfall that totally earns bragging rights.
It’s a 9-mile round-trip hike in Virgin Falls State Natural Area near Sparta, and the payoff is wild—a 110-foot waterfall that pours straight out of a cave and vanishes into another cave below.
Along the way, you’ll pass other waterfalls like Big Branch Falls and Sheep Cave Falls, so the whole trail is packed with jaw-dropping moments.
Bring plenty of water, good shoes, and maybe even a tent as there are designated primitive campsites near the falls if you wanna wake up to that epic view.
5. Machine Falls
Ready for something totally magical?
Machine Falls is located inside Short Springs Natural Area near Tullahoma, and it seriously feels like you’ve stumbled into a secret forest waterfall.
The loop trail is roughly 1.6-miles, but you’ll be rock-hopping and creek-crossing your way to a wide waterfall that spills 60 feet down a mossy rock wall.
What makes this one extra special is how close you can get as you can walk right up near the base and cool off in the shallow splash zone.
6. Jones Falls
Jones Falls is one of those sneaky-awesome spots you’d totally miss if you didn’t know where to look.
It’s situated along the Appalachian Trail near the Tennessee-North Carolina border, about a 3 to 3.5-mile round-trip hike from the Elk River Falls trailhead.
This 100-foot waterfall tumbles down a rocky cliff in layers, and the last section drops into a small, rocky basin where you can get close enough to feel the cool mist after the hike.
Since it’s off the beaten path, there’s a good chance you’ll have it all to yourself!
7. Cul-car-mac Falls
Cul-car-mac Falls might have a weird name, but the waterfall is pure magic.
It’s located on private land near Smithville, within the scenic property of Evins Mill, and trust me—it’s worth the trek.
The falls drop around 90 feet in a broad cascade, splashing over moss-covered boulders that look like something out of a fantasy movie.
There’s little in the way of public signage, so finding it feels a bit like uncovering a secret and with the sound of rushing water guiding you, getting there is part of the adventure.
Please note that you can only visit the falls if you’re a resort guest at Evins Mill.
8. Hen Wallow Falls
Hen Wallow Falls is hiding out in the Great Smoky Mountains, just off the Gabes Mountain Trail in Cosby, and it’s got some serious vertical drama.
This waterfall drops 90 feet in a narrow, silvery stream that fans out as it hits the rocks, especially after a good rain.
The hike is about 4.3 miles round-trip and winds through shady forest packed with tall trees, chirping birds, and the occasional wild turkey strutting across the trail.
Black bears are known to roam this area, so keep your snacks packed tight and your camera ready—you never know who might show up for a surprise photo op.
9. Jackson Falls
Last but definitely not least, Jackson Falls is the kind of easy-access waterfall that still totally delivers on the wow factor.
It’s located just off the Natchez Trace Parkway near mile marker 404.7, with a paved path about 900 feet long that gently descends to the falls.
The waterfall itself is a series of smooth rock cascades that slide down into a clear pool, ideal for admiring or snapping photos from the rocks nearby.
It’s a go-to chill spot for road trippers, and since it’s super close to the parking area, you can squeeze it in even if you’re just passing through.
Related Posts
