Day Trips from Nashville
← All Nashville day tripsDay Trips from Nashville: Waterfalls & Swimming Holes
The best waterfalls and swimming holes within driving distance of Nashville, TN. Dramatic cascades, hidden gorges, and swimmable falls that reward the drive. Trail info, drive times, and ratings included.
9 waterfalls near Nashville
Fall Creek Falls
Pikeville, TN 37367
Just 2 hrs 13 min from Nashville, 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.
Ozone Falls State Natural Area
Ozone, TN 37854
Just 1 hr 56 min from Nashville, 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.
Cummins Falls
USA
Just 1 hr 21 min from Nashville, 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 1 hr 44 min from Nashville, 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.
Rock Island State Park
Rock Island, TN 38581
Just 1 hr 39 min from Nashville, 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 2 hrs from Nashville, 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.
Burgess Falls State Park
Sparta, TN 38583
Just 1 hr 20 min from Nashville, 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.
Cummins Falls State Park
Cookeville, TN 38501
Just 1 hr 23 min from Nashville, rated 4.7 stars by 4,719 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
Tennessee 38501, USA
Just 1 hr 21 min from Nashville, rated 4.6 stars by 556 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 Nashville
What are the best waterfalls near Nashville, TN?
The best waterfalls near Nashville 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 Nashville?
Some waterfalls near Nashville 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 Nashville?
Difficulty varies widely. Some waterfalls near Nashville 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 Nashville?
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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