Day Trips from Kingsport
← All Kingsport day tripsDay Trips from Kingsport: Waterfalls & Swimming Holes
The best waterfalls and swimming holes within driving distance of Kingsport, TN. Dramatic cascades, hidden gorges, and swimmable falls that reward the drive. Trail info, drive times, and ratings included.
12 waterfalls near Kingsport
Rainbow Falls
Grassy Ridge Rd, Lake Toxaway
Just 2 hrs 30 min from Kingsport, 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 30 min from Kingsport, 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 24 min from Kingsport, 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.
Brush Creek Falls
Athens, WV 24712
Just 2 hrs 18 min from Kingsport, rated 4.8 stars by 528 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.
Moore Cove Falls
NC 28768, USA
Just 2 hrs 5 min from Kingsport, rated 4.8 stars by 292 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.
Blue Hole
TN 37643, USA
Just 58 min from Kingsport, 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.
Upper Creek Falls
Newland, NC 28657
Just 1 hr 30 min from Kingsport, 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.
New River Gorge National Park: Sandstone Falls Recreation Area
Shady Spring, WV 25918
Just 2 hrs 57 min from Kingsport, 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.
Looking Glass Falls
Brevard, NC 28712
Just 2 hrs 4 min from Kingsport, 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.
Hanging Rock State Park
Danbury, NC 27016
Just 2 hrs 55 min from Kingsport, 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 31 min from Kingsport, 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.
Quarry Falls
Highlands, NC 28741
Just 2 hrs 45 min from Kingsport, rated 4.7 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.
Frequently Asked Questions About Waterfalls Day Trips from Kingsport
What are the best waterfalls near Kingsport, TN?
The best waterfalls near Kingsport 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 Kingsport?
Some waterfalls near Kingsport 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 Kingsport?
Difficulty varies widely. Some waterfalls near Kingsport 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 Kingsport?
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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