Tennessee is packed with state parks that’ll make your jaw drop and we’re not just saying that.
We’re talking waterfalls taller than buildings, cliffs that look out for miles, mountain peaks you can hike to, and trails that lead to secret swimming holes.
Some of these spots are perfect for a quick adventure with big payoff views, while others take a little more work, but trust me, they’re all worth it.
Whether you’re into wildflower-covered mountaintops, swinging bridges, or lakeside sunsets, this list has something that’ll totally wow you.
Ready to find out where the most epic views in Tennessee are hiding? Let’s go.
1. Fall Creek Falls State Park
Fall Creek Falls State Park is in central Tennessee, just over an hour from Chattanooga.
It’s home to one of the tallest waterfalls in the eastern U.S.—the 256-foot Fall Creek Falls.
This park has over 56 miles of hiking trails, swinging suspension bridges, deep gorges, and six other waterfalls like Piney Falls and Cane Creek Falls that are totally worth the trek.
You can swim in the natural plunge pool at the base of the falls, spot wild turkeys along the trails, or rent a cabin right on the lake for some chill time with a front-row view.
2. Roan Mountain State Park
Roan Mountain State Park is about a 40‑minute drive from Johnson City near the North Carolina border.
It’s famous for its jaw-dropping rhododendron blooms every June where the whole mountain turns pink.
The park has 12 miles of hiking trails that wind through lush forests and along the Doe River.
Don’t miss the Appalachian Trail hike from Carver’s Gap to Round Bald for 360-degree views at 5,826 feet, it’s like standing on top of the world.
3. Radnor Lake State Park
Radnor Lake State Park is just under 20 minutes from downtown Nashville, but it feels like a whole different world filled with peaceful trails and nonstop wildlife sightings.
The park has 7.75 miles of trails, including the super-popular Lake Trail, which is flat, easy, and perfect for spotting deer, otters, and even bald eagles.
It’s a no-picnic, no-jogging zone on most trails to keep things quiet for the animals, so it’s all about slow strolls, nature sounds, and soaking up those lake views.
4. Cumberland Mountain State Park
Cumberland Mountain State Park is located right in the middle of the Cumberland Plateau in Crossville.
It’s got serious New Deal history, built by the CCC in the 1930s with a super cool stone bridge that still stands.
The 35-acre Byrd Lake is the star here, where you can rent paddle boats, go fishing, or just float around and take in the mountain views.
There are over 14 miles of trails, but the 1.8-mile Pioneer Short Loop is a fan favorite, especially if you’re into shady forests, swinging bridges, and old-school log cabins.
5. Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area
Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area stretches across the Tennessee-Kentucky border and is packed with massive sandstone cliffs, wild rivers, and hidden arches.
You’ve got 140+ miles of hiking trails, including the 4.6-mile Twin Arches Loop that takes you to two of the biggest natural rock arches in the Southeast, one spanning over 100 feet wide!
Whether you’re hiking, kayaking the Big South Fork River, or horseback riding through forested canyons, this place is all about big views and big adventures.
Just a heads-up, the Twin Arches Loop Trail is partially closed for stair and ladder repairs that started in May 2025, access is limited to one side at a time, so check trail conditions online before you go.
6. Burgess Falls State Park
Burgess Falls State Park is in Middle Tennessee near Cookeville, and it’s all about waterfall power—four of them, to be exact, dropping fast and furious along a 1.5-mile trail.
The grand finale is Burgess Falls itself, which crashes down 136 feet into a rocky gorge and makes a serious splash (literally and visually).
There’s no swimming here, but you can stand at the overlook and feel the mist on your face while soaking in some of the most epic waterfall views in the state.
7. South Cumberland State Park
South Cumberland State Park is actually a bunch of separate areas spread across the southern part of the Cumberland Plateau, and it’s a total dream for hikers who like their trails with a side of waterfalls and cliffs.
The Fiery Gizzard Trail is the big showstopper with nearly 12 miles of rocky terrain, waterfalls, swimming holes, and some seriously awesome overlooks like Raven Point.
You can also check out the 1-mile trail to Greeter Falls for a quicker adventure with a spiral staircase and a 50-foot waterfall that’s perfect for hot summer days.
8. Panther Creek State Park
Panther Creek State Park is just 15 minutes from Morristown and offers more than 30 miles of trails for all skill levels.
It’s also a playground for mountain bikers, with over 15 miles of twisty, hilly trails that wind through the woods and around Cherokee Lake.
The Point Lookout Trail is a must, it’s a 1.9-mile climb that ends with a jaw-dropping view over the lake from 1,460 feet up.
There’s kayaking, fishing, and even an 18-hole disc golf course, so you can go full-on adventure mode or just chill by the water with a snack.
9. Ozone Falls State Natural Area
Ozone Falls State Natural Area is a quick but unforgettable stop off Highway 70 near Crab Orchard, with a 110-foot waterfall that drops straight off a sandstone cliff into a rocky plunge pool.
The trail to the base is short, about 0.3 miles, but it’s steep and rocky, so wear good shoes and be ready to scramble a bit.
Fun fact: Ozone Falls was actually featured in the movie The Jungle Book (1994), and once you see it, you’ll totally get why.
10. House Mountain State Natural Area
House Mountain State Natural Area is Knoxville’s tallest point, and if you’re up for a leg workout, the views from the top are 100% worth it.
There are three main trails: West Overlook Trail (0.8 miles), Crest Trail (1.5 miles), and Mountain Trail (1 mile).
These can be combined into a scenic hike with panoramic views of the Smokies on one side and the Cumberland Plateau on the other.
It’s a steep climb with about 1,000 feet of elevation gain, with stone steps, shady switchbacks, and rocky sections if you need to catch your breath (you will).
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