Day Trips from Chattanooga
← All Chattanooga day tripsDay Trips from Chattanooga: Waterfalls & Swimming Holes
The best waterfalls and swimming holes within driving distance of Chattanooga, TN. Dramatic cascades, hidden gorges, and swimmable falls that reward the drive. Trail info, drive times, and ratings included.
12 waterfalls near Chattanooga
George Hole day use area
Pikeville, TN 37367
Just 1 hr 13 min from Chattanooga, rated 5.0 stars, 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.
Little River Canyon Falls Park
Fort Payne, AL 35967
Just 1 hr 2 min from Chattanooga, rated 4.9 stars by 2,031 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.
Fall Creek Falls
Pikeville, TN 37367
Just 1 hr 19 min from Chattanooga, rated 4.9 stars by 149 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.
Cummins Falls
USA
Just 1 hr 54 min from Chattanooga, rated 4.8 stars by 741 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Foster Falls Recreation Area
Sequatchie, TN 37374
Just 40 min from Chattanooga, rated 4.8 stars by 1,451 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.
Amicalola Falls State Park
Dawsonville, GA 30534
Just 1 hr 46 min from Chattanooga, rated 4.8 stars by 14,203 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.
Rock Island State Park
Rock Island, TN 38581
Just 1 hr 24 min from Chattanooga, rated 4.8 stars by 5,445 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.
Fall Creek Falls State Park
Spencer, TN 38585
Just 1 hr 6 min from Chattanooga, rated 4.8 stars by 8,623 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.
Tallulah Gorge State Park
Tallulah Falls, GA 30573
Just 2 hrs 57 min from Chattanooga, rated 4.8 stars by 6,560 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.
Burgess Falls State Park
Sparta, TN 38583
Just 1 hr 35 min from Chattanooga, rated 4.8 stars by 4,532 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.
Ozone Falls State Natural Area
Ozone, TN 37854
Just 1 hr 26 min from Chattanooga, rated 4.8 stars by 2,454 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.
Desoto Falls Picnic Area-DeSoto State Park
AL 35984, USA
Just 52 min from Chattanooga, rated 4.8 stars by 1,907 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 Chattanooga
What are the best waterfalls near Chattanooga, TN?
The best waterfalls near Chattanooga 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 Chattanooga?
Some waterfalls near Chattanooga 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 Chattanooga?
Difficulty varies widely. Some waterfalls near Chattanooga 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 Chattanooga?
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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