Day Trips from Johnson City
← All Johnson City day tripsDay Trips from Johnson City: Waterfalls & Swimming Holes
The best waterfalls and swimming holes within driving distance of Johnson City, TN. Dramatic cascades, hidden gorges, and swimmable falls that reward the drive. Trail info, drive times, and ratings included.
12 waterfalls near Johnson City
Rainbow Falls and Turtleback Trailhead
NC 28747, USA
Just 2 hrs 10 min from Johnson City, rated 4.9 stars by 438 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.
Rainbow Falls
Grassy Ridge Rd, Lake Toxaway
Just 2 hrs 7 min from Johnson City, 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 7 min from Johnson City, 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.
Ozone Falls State Natural Area
Ozone, TN 37854
Just 2 hrs 27 min from Johnson City, 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.
Tallulah Gorge State Park
Tallulah Falls, GA 30573
Just 2 hrs 48 min from Johnson City, 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.
Linville Falls - Trail and Waterfall
NC 28657, USA
Just 1 hr 5 min from Johnson City, rated 4.8 stars by 1,830 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 1 hr 40 min from Johnson City, 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 34 min from Johnson City, 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 1 hr 44 min from Johnson City, 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 5 min from Johnson City, 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.
Gorges State Park
Sapphire, NC 28774
Just 2 hrs 8 min from Johnson City, 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.
New River Gorge National Park: Sandstone Falls Recreation Area
Shady Spring, WV 25918
Just 2 hrs 60 min from Johnson City, 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.
Frequently Asked Questions About Waterfalls Day Trips from Johnson City
What are the best waterfalls near Johnson City, TN?
The best waterfalls near Johnson City 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 Johnson City?
Some waterfalls near Johnson City 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 Johnson City?
Difficulty varies widely. Some waterfalls near Johnson City 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 Johnson City?
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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