Day Trips from Bristol
← All Bristol day tripsDay Trips from Bristol: Waterfalls & Swimming Holes
The best waterfalls and swimming holes within driving distance of Bristol, TN. Dramatic cascades, hidden gorges, and swimmable falls that reward the drive. Trail info, drive times, and ratings included.
12 waterfalls near Bristol
Lower Cascade Falls
NC 27052, USA
Just 2 hrs 30 min from Bristol, rated 4.9 stars by 154 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Rainbow Falls
Grassy Ridge Rd, Lake Toxaway
Just 2 hrs 40 min from Bristol, rated 4.9 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Turtleback Falls
Lake Toxaway, NC 28747
Just 2 hrs 40 min from Bristol, rated 4.9 stars by 397 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
New River Gorge National Park: Sandstone Falls Recreation Area
Shady Spring, WV 25918
Just 2 hrs 30 min from Bristol, rated 4.8 stars by 657 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Fall Creek Waterfall
Stoneville, NC 27048
Just 2 hrs 44 min from Bristol, rated 4.8 stars by 130 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Cathedral Falls
Gauley Bridge, WV 25085
Just 2 hrs 54 min from Bristol, rated 4.8 stars by 2,457 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Looking Glass Falls
Brevard, NC 28712
Just 2 hrs 13 min from Bristol, rated 4.8 stars by 4,090 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Blue Hole
TN 37643, USA
Just 45 min from Bristol, rated 4.8 stars by 495 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Hooker Falls
Cedar Mountain, NC 28718
Just 2 hrs 17 min from Bristol, rated 4.8 stars by 188 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Upper Creek Falls
Newland, NC 28657
Just 1 hr 24 min from Bristol, rated 4.8 stars by 380 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Hanging Rock State Park
Danbury, NC 27016
Just 2 hrs 28 min from Bristol, rated 4.8 stars by 7,481 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Gorges State Park
Sapphire, NC 28774
Just 2 hrs 41 min from Bristol, rated 4.8 stars by 1,455 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Frequently Asked Questions About Waterfalls Day Trips from Bristol
What are the best waterfalls near Bristol, TN?
The best waterfalls near Bristol range from roadside cascades to backcountry falls requiring a hike. Check the cards above for top-rated options with drive times and real visitor ratings.
Are there swimmable waterfalls near Bristol?
Some waterfalls near Bristol have designated swimming areas at their base. Always check current conditions and posted rules before swimming. State park waterfalls with established trails are generally the safest options.
How hard are the hikes to waterfalls near Bristol?
Difficulty varies widely. Some waterfalls near Bristol are visible from parking areas or short boardwalks. Others require moderate to strenuous hikes of 2-6 miles round trip. Check individual trail descriptions before heading out.
When is the best time to see waterfalls near Bristol?
Spring (March-May) typically offers the highest water flow after snowmelt and rain. Waterfalls are beautiful year-round though. Winter ice formations are dramatic, and fall foliage framing a waterfall is hard to beat.
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