Niagara Falls A natural Wonder of our World

Niagara Falls is one of the reasons why we came back to Buffalo. Truly a beautiful place that will leave you breathless. And there are lots to do. If you are visiting as family group, there's definitely something for you and the kiddos to do beyond Niagara Falls nearby. All of the power of the water flowing and imagining people have gone over the US side in a barrel and survived. Spectacular that you deserve to walk around and take so many selfies. There's also the boat ride and zip line too. Such a must see in your bucket list of this grand majestic freak of nature to marvel upon.

 

The Falls are truly a sight to behold for an hour or even just a few minutes.

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14 comments AdBenture, New York, New York State Park, Niagara Falls, Niagara Falls State Park, Shades of Autumn, United States, Waterfalls

Visit the Niagara Falls in the Winter

We have been gone to Buffalo, NY for nearly seven years.  Finally we get to see Niagara Falls again  on the US side. We had a bit of time before we headed back to East TN, so we decided to stop here. We used to live nearby but I am still captivated every time I visit the falls and always enjoy the experience!

Niagara Falls is a beautiful natural wonder that everyone should come see in their lifetime to appreciate the awesomeness of mother nature.  We came here on Christmas time 2018  it was snowy that day there were no crowds and  it is freezing but Niagara Falls is well worth stopping by.

I used to dread the winter, but at this moment I fully embrace the change of season.  I love taking this time to have fun, find peace and inspiration in the rebirth after the darkest and longest night of the year. When nature has completely shed everything and when animals go into hibernation.

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64 comments New York, Niagara Falls, United States, Waterfalls, Winter Getaways

Cataract Falls Hike in the Smoky Mountain

We enjoyed our short hike to Cataract Falls,  one of the most popular falls in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.  Located just a half mile behind the Sugarlands Visitor Center, Cataract Falls is an easy hike with a small set of stairs near the falls.  The first part of the trail was flat and featured a small foot bridge that crossed the creek next to a tree that had some very interesting features.

At the end of the hike you will find a beautiful waterfall. The waterfall is comprised of two low-flow streams totaling a 25-foot drop into a small pool below.  After periods of rain, the waterfall is quite impressive!

📌  Hike the Smokies Challenge

Our very first hike at Smokies.

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19 comments Great Smoky Mountain National Park, Hiking Trails, Tennessee, United States, US National Park, Waterfalls

Visit the Twin Falls at Rock Island State Park

This scenic and tranquil setting nestled along the Caney Fork River is a wonder of nature.  Rock Island State Park is one of my favorite places to visit in Middle Tennessee.  This state park offers a campground, picnic areas, hiking trails and waterfalls.  There's  few trails in Rock Island:  the area by the Great Falls, the Downstream Trail  and  the Upstream Trail with view of the Twin Falls which is what we did.  Although the upstream trail is an easy walk from the observation area the stream is rocky so you have to be careful getting in.

Planet Earth has countless jaw-dropping landscapes, but of all its stunning scenery, waterfalls are the most impressive.

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32 comments Rock Island, Tennessee, Tennessee State National Park, United States, Waterfalls

Visit the Whispering Winds Covered Bridge and Lost Mine Falls

Everyone is familiar with theme parks or amusement parks, but have you ever heard of an adventure park? Adventure park is a place where family can come to explore and discover the outdoors. The  Foxfire Mountain Adventure Park is famous for that, located 12 miles outside the city limits of Gatlinburg , Sevierville or Pigeon Forge.

It is a family oriented adventure park that has beautiful easy to moderate trails. This trails will lead you across multiple unique bridges from log to covered and cable  bridges, including America’s Longest Swinging Bridge with gorgeous vistas and awesome waterfalls.

"Whispering Winds Covered Bridge",  is home to thousands of wishes where you can hang a wish to blow in the winds of prosperity. 

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30 comments Bridges and Sights, Family Attractions, FoxFire Mountain, Outdoor Activities and Adventures, Sevierville, Tennessee, Theme Parks, United States, Waterfalls

The 10 Must-See Waterfall Hikes in Tennessee

Welcome to East Tennessee, the home to the nation's most visited national park— the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Tennessee is famous for beautiful outdoor scenes. With its beautiful blend of rustic scenery, smoky mountaintops, rolling hills and countryside, it’s pretty clear Mother Nature lay her place in Tennessee. 

As one of the Appalachian Trail’s highlighted states, Tennessee is a paradise for backpackers and hikers,  and the state has plenty of hot spots for black bear sightings. Challenge your self  and your family! Join numerous hikers that have logged over 100+ miles and the park will reward you with mileage pins.

Here are 10 must-see hiking trails and waterfalls in Tennessee, in no particular order. (Click each waterfalls name to view more photos.)

1. Hike to Ozone Falls

Located just off U.S. Highway 70, Crab Orchard, Tennessee. This stunningly grand Ozone Falls is a 110-foot waterfall with a pool below it has been a popular tourist attraction for more than a century. The waterfall was named Ozone, because the mist from the falls was believed to have healthy qualities. Today, the waterfall is protected as part of Ozone Falls State Natural Area and it's just a short hike — less than a mile — and easy, but the trail that takes you to the pool below is strenuous, especially on the way back up.

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34 comments Crossville, Gatlinburg, Great Smoky Mountain National Park, Tennessee, Tennessee State National Park, Travel Tips, Waterfalls

The Downstream Trails at Rock Island State Park

If you like waterfalls this is a nice place to stop off we were on our way  home from Nashville. We decided to stop over in Rock Island State Park and do some short hike.  We took the steps down to the falls area and have to say they are moderate, treacherous in both directions - wear proper hiking shoes, its rocky and some part is muddy.  Unfortunately we were on the wrong side of the Twin Giant Falls our GPS is not being helpful either. Instead we are leading to one of the few small waterfalls in the area.  This is our first time in Rock Island and we will go back soon to see the famous Twin Falls. 

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8 comments Hiking Trails, Rock Island, Tennessee, Tennessee State National Park, United States, Waterfalls

The Hen Wallow Falls

We hiked up to Hen Wallow Falls on June 18. This was a great two hour hike at least 4.5 miles round trip . Maybe, little over two hours if you take your time.  The entry of the trail is beautiful. It feels like you are walking into a tunnel of beautiful greenery. The trip to the falls is almost all up hill and very uneven (lots of roots) in parts. The elevation gain is just over 550 feet but the total round trip elevation gain is just over 1,100 feet. There are several places along the trail on the way up to stop, take pictures, and catch your breath if needed. 

This isn't an easy hike, and it's not as popular as some of the other waterfall trails in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The amount of water flows at the fall is depending on the time of year the amount of recent rainfall, still can be a very enjoyable experience.  We brought snacks with so we were able to hang out at the base of the falls for awhile. If you are looking for a short day hike to a waterfall away from the crowds this trail is a good choice.

Here's one of the tree bridges on the trail.

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Leave a Comment Great Smoky Mountain National Park, Summer Getaway, Tennessee, Tennessee State National Park, Waterfalls

Falls Creek Falls State Park - Part 2

This is our second trip to Falls Creek Falls this time we  hiked the trail  down to the bottom of the big falls. It is a strenuous hike over some rocky areas, but it is well worth it. Going up is physically challenging. The fall doesn't have much water flow to it but it is one of the tallest I have seen. It's like being in another world. You can get in the swimming hole  at the bottom of the falls and it was amazing. There is only one trail that goes in and out , expect that it could be crowded at times. The rocks at the bottom are a tad scary, because some of them are loose so be careful. We were sitting on the rocks at the bottom of the falls for about 30 minutes. 

If you are a person who likes to spend time outdoors or hike, you will truly enjoy a day here. Be sure to plan on making it a day trip, it's in the middle of nowhere. Happy hiking!

Falls Creek Falls State Park

10821 Park Rd

Spencer, TN 37367

One of Tennessee's gem

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11 comments Crossville, Fall Creek Falls, State Parks, Summer Getaway, Tennessee, Waterfalls

Cinematic Ozone Falls

Spring is fast approaching and we're both itching to get outside and breathe in the fresh air. We wanted to do a short hike with lots of cliffs and waterfalls. So we decided to check out the Ozone Falls which I have read that this is the area where a battle scene in the "Rudyard Kipling's The Jungle Book"  movie took place in 1994. (pretty cool , huh?) 

Stunning Grand Ozone Falls

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21 comments Crossville, State Parks, Summer Getaway, Tennessee, Tennessee State National Park, United States, Waterfalls

A Day Hike at Cummins Falls State Park

My husband and I had wanted to visit Cummins Falls since we moved to Tennessee three years ago and I finally convinced him to go. This place is beautiful! I can see why it was ranked one of the ten best swimming holes in America. We left  at home around 11 A.M. and there were only maybe less than 20  people when we arrived. The weather is nice for a hike but the water is still freezing.  I would absolutely recommend this if you go on a hot day in summer but expect it could be pretty crowded. 

This is definitely not the adventure for you if you're not pretty active and in decent shape, it can be really dangerous. But once you get to the falls, I promise you it will all be worth it!! We will definitely be going back again but next time we will be more prepared.

Cummins Falls simply beautiful and serene.

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23 comments Crossville, Outdoor Activities and Adventures, State Parks, Tennessee, United States, Waterfalls

Abrams Falls and Hiking Trail

Abram Falls has the highest volume of water flow of any waterfall in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park, which easily makes it one of my favorites. The drive to get here and all the things to see once you arrive in Cades Cove makes it my BEST recommendation for outdoor activities when visiting the Smokies. You' will want to come back here again and again.

There are rocky areas and tree roots along the way but if you hang in there it is well worth it. Once you arrive, you will know it. The falls are glorious, but because of the curve of the trail, they remain hidden from your view until you are only 50 yards away... but what a sight! I could honestly spent the entire day watching and admiring this falls,

Hiking Distance (Roundtrip Length): 6 Miles

Trail Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult

One of the beautiful Falls of Smoky Mountain, bigger than photo suggest.

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24 comments Great Smoky Mountain National Park, Summer Getaway, Tennessee, Tennessee State National Park, Waterfalls

Fall Creek Falls State Park Part 1

Over the weekend on mid summer of 2015, my husband and I planned a short get-away to see Fall Creek Falls after hearing so many people talk about how amazing it is. I was intrigued by the designation that Fall Creek Falls is the highest free-falling waterfall east of the Mississippi River, and we were not disappointed. Another one of Tennessee's hidden treasures. My first time experience to Fall Creek Falls  I was amazed and breathless. The park is like oasis. The trail to Fall Creek Falls from the Nature Center includes a couple overlooks, and the Cane Creek Cascades was the most impressive. Fall Creek Fall is also pretty impressive, but the volume of water was a little low that day. But it was still gorgeous!

Maybe you remember "The Jungle Book" filmed in 1994.  If so the waterfall scenes were filmed at Fall Creek Falls State Park.

Fall Creek Falls is located between Spencer and Pikeville, TN on the edge of the Cumberland Plateau, this park is famed for its many waterfalls, including its namesake cascade with the single tallest free-fall East of the Mississippi. Some are easy to view such as the Cane Creek Falls and Cane Creek Cascades. Others are more difficult to reach, such as the base of Fall Creek Falls down a steep and curvy path. 

To view more photos of  Falls located on this State park go to Cane Creek Cascades.

The waterfalls and nestled mountains are a dose of nature for the soul.

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16 comments Fall Creek Falls, State Parks, Summer Getaway, Tennessee, Waterfalls

Burgess Falls State Park

I seriously cannot get over what a beautiful place this is. Burgess Falls is one of the most gorgeous parks in the Cumberland Plateau, with great trails and impressive waterfalls.  The trails heading down to Burgess Falls are no more than moderate and you can see the first fall within a few minutes of hiking.  Little Falls is just that - quite little - but in another half mile are the Middle Falls, which span the width of the river and are about 35' tall.  The trail is straight out & back. You can walk along the river or you can walk along a gravel road that leads to the Burgess Falls (136 feet).

Burgess Falls 136 feet high

Unfortunately, you can only view Burgess Falls from an overlook and can't get down to it.  They had the trail going down blocked off due to flood damage. Would love to go back sometime in October, so we can see the falls at the bottom. Just disappointed we drove almost 2 hrs. and didn't get to see much.

Address: 4000 Burgess Falls Drive, Sparta, TN 38583-8456; Phone Number: 931-432-5312

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4 comments Crossville, State Parks, Summer Getaway, Tennessee, Waterfalls

Ramsey Cascades Trail

We decided to do this hike the last minute because we can't decide where to go. We hike quite a bit but this hike was tougher than we imagined. You have to cross a rushing stream/river several times, climb slick and unstable rocks. It took us almost 6 hrs for the entire hike and we were paying for it the next day a total of 8 miles there and back. The heat and the rain was unbearable. Either way it was quite an adventure for us, and that we will never forget.

Tips pack as light as you can and take snacks and water along with a good hiking shoes/boots.  If waterfalls and soreness are your thing then go! People say it's worth it, but it really just depends on what kind of hike you are looking for, if you're an experienced hiker and want an extra challenge this is it.If you're wanting to enjoy nice views, easy strides and non threatening terrains then this is not for you.

Direction: Follow the Greenbrier Road for 3.1 miles and turn left at the bridge following the sign to the Ramsey Cascades Trail. The trailhead is another 1.5 miles at the end of the road.

Hiking Distance (Roundtrip Length): 8 Miles
Trail Difficulty Rating: 5.30 (moderate to difficult)

From the Greenbriar entrance

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7 comments Great Smoky Mountain National Park, Summer Getaway, Tennessee, Waterfalls

Grotto Falls Trail

Grotto Falls is a stunningly beautiful waterfall and popular attraction for hikers that are visiting the area of Gatlinburg, TN. It is an easy hike if you're moderately in shape. There are few little streams you will have to cross and you will get a little muddy. This trail requires about a 3 mile round trip hike into the surreal beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park on the side on Mount LeConte. But it only took us less than 2.5 total even though we spent a LOT of time hanging out by the fall, taking pictures and enjoying the view.

On the way out we did see a bear cross the road in front of us, which kinda freaked me out at first, but also made my day! So they aren't joking about bears being in the area. And if you're lucky enough, you would see the group of Llama passing Grotto Falls trail heading out to Mt. Leconte with supplies usually they hike on Mon-Wed-Fri traveling on Trillium Gap or could change if severe weather.

DIRECTIONS: Turn at Traffic light #8 in Gatlinburg and follow it to Roaring Forks Road. Keep right and stay on Roaring Fork past the Rainbow Falls parking area. Follow the signs towards Grotto Falls. Another great reason to go early is because parking spaces are limited. Once parked, go right along the concrete walkway which points straight toward the trail head.

Pretty waterfall that you can actually walk behind.

Hiking Distance (Roundtrip Length): 2.6 Miles
Trail Difficulty Rating: 3.77 (moderate)

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6 comments Great Smoky Mountain National Park, Summer Getaway, Tennessee, Waterfalls

Cane Creek Cascade Falls

We have only been to Fall Creek Falls State Park to hike and haven't had the chance to camp yet, although I would love to go back for a full camping experience.  We started out viewing the massive 254 foot Fall Creek from an overlook and headed down to the base of the falls on a trail that was fairly strenuous and rocky at times.  On another trail going towards the nature center, we viewed the Cane Creek Falls, which are only 85 feet, but still rather impressive.  Only few people were there, so we sat on some rocks and dipped our feet. The water continues to flow around a small bend which we followed, and came across the top of another waterfall. By the time we reached the nature center, we were at the Cane Creek Cascades Falls, which are 45 feet and flow into a swimming hole area that was quite crowded but its pretty fun to splash around. 

Location Address: 2009 Village Camp Rd Pikeville, Tennessee 37367

No need to describe this beauty

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10 comments Crossville, State Parks, Summer Getaway, Tennessee, Waterfalls

Hike to Spruce Flats Falls

We hiked to Spruce Flat Falls in mid May. This trail is narrow with lots of rocks and roots but it is a fun hike on a beautiful day.  If you are short on time or want to do a couple of short trails in a day. It is challenging enough to keep things interesting but won't wear you down and the waterfall is a nice reward. It starts from the Tremont Institute which has a bathroom and little visitor shop. The man working the shop was wonderful and gave a full description of the trail. This trail is not  listed on most maps or websites so it is pretty quite. Sunny afternoon sitting by the waterfall was refreshing I hated to leave. We met a few people on the trail but it is not crowded like other trails in the Smokey Mountains. Overall a wonderful hike, one I would love to do again it is a gem in the Spring.

Directions: From the Sugarlands Visitor Center, drive west on Little River Rd for 17.6 miles to the intersection of Laurel Creek Rd and TN 73, also known as the Townsend Wye. Bear left on Laurel Creek Road towards Tremont and Cades Cove. In .2 miles, turn left on the road towards the Great Smoky Mountain Institute. Drive 2 miles up this road and turn left across Middle Prong. Park at the Institute parking area for the trail on the right.

Hiking Round-trip Length: 2 Miles
Trail Difficulty Rating: 2.33 (easy)

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10 comments Great Smoky Mountain National Park, Summer Getaway, Tennessee, Waterfalls

Rainbow Falls Trailhead

Gatlinburg Tennessee is absolutely one of our favorite places in the world for so many reasons. It's a quaint little mountain town that was settled in the early 1800s. There are so many things to do for singles, families, groups or loners that any and every one could have a great time without compromising. Lots of food, entertainment, relaxation, scenery and most important for us… nature.

We are a very active couple our favorite thing to do when in the mountains is hike, especially if it leads to a beautiful waterfall. Gatlinburg is at the mouth of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, land of a thousand waterfalls & overlooks. Nature is truly at its best right here and I would encourage anyone who enjoys outdoor activities to visit this small section of the world. 

Rainbow Falls itself can be a pretty boring waterfall when rain is minimal, but it's gorgeous in the spring when snow from the top of the mountain begins to melt or after significant rainfall. Nature will also be showing off its colors with a variety of flowering mountain plants. The height of the waterfall is 80 feet, so it's a good size, but it can be underwhelming with just a trickle of water in the hot dry summer.

Hiking Distance (Roundtrip Length): 5.4 Miles
Trail Difficulty Rating: 8.77 (moderate to difficult)

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6 comments Great Smoky Mountain National Park, Shades of Autumn, Tennessee, Waterfalls

Laurel Falls Trailhead

The Laurel Falls Trail is an American hiking trail, in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park of Tennessee. We went to this falls mid-afternoon on August 23rd weekend.  The drive into Smoky National Park was very scenic and peaceful. We stopped at Gatlinburg Visitor's Center on the way in to pick up a couple maps. It was a wonderful walk up to the falls, I loved that the trail was paved. There are a few places to go down off the beaten path and explore. It was nice to get outdoors and get some exercise. The falls is beautiful but its a little crowded, but worth it.  Had to wait for other visitors to move to get my pics. But overall loved this natural wonder. Definitely recommend Laurel falls for the nature lover.

Trail Location:  Little River Road   
Roundtrip Length: 2.3 Miles   
Highest Elevation: 2677 Feet   
Trail Difficulty Rating: 2.93 (easy)

Short hike that ends in beautiful reward

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34 comments Great Smoky Mountain National Park, Summer Getaway, Tennessee, Waterfalls