Burgess Falls State Park
Burgess Falls State Park is a waterfall lover’s dream, featuring four spectacular waterfalls along the Falling Water River that collectively drop over 250 feet. The crown jewel is the main Burgess Falls—a thundering 136-foot plunge into a dramatic gorge that’s considered one of Tennessee’s most beautiful waterfalls. Best of all? This 217-acre day-use park near Cookeville is completely free to visit.
Four Waterfalls – 250+ Feet of Cascading Beauty
The Falling Water River earns its name as it tumbles through four distinct waterfalls on its way to Center Hill Lake. Each offers a unique experience, from gentle cascades to the dramatic main event.
| Waterfall | Height | Experience |
|---|---|---|
| 💧 Falling Water Cascades | 20 ft | First falls on the trail; gentle introduction |
| 💧 Little Falls | 30 ft | Scenic cascade; good photo opportunity |
| 💧 Middle Falls | 80 ft | Impressive drop with overlook platform |
| 🌊 Burgess Falls (Main) | 136 ft | The star attraction! Thundering plunge into gorge |
📍 Access to Falls Base
- There is no trail to the base of the main Burgess Falls from within the park
- To reach the base, you must approach by boat or kayak from Cane Hollow Recreation Area
- This makes for an incredible paddling destination!
Hiking Trails
Despite its small size, Burgess Falls packs a serious punch with trails that pass all four waterfalls. The terrain is moderately strenuous, with stairs and elevation changes—but the payoff is spectacular.
| Trail | Distance | Difficulty | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🥾 River Trail | 0.8 mi (one way) | Difficult | Passes all 4 waterfalls; stairs; rugged terrain |
| 🔄 Service Road Loop | 1.5 mi (round trip) | Moderate | Combine River Trail + gravel road; easier return |
| 🛤️ Gravel Service Road | 0.5 mi | Easy | Direct route to Burgess Falls Overlook; wheelchair-friendly |
| 🏔️ Ridge Top Trail | 1.0 mi | Moderate | Canyon overlooks; different perspective |
🥾 Trail Tips
- Most strenuous section: Stairs near Middle Falls—take your time!
- Smart strategy: Take the gravel road TO the falls, River Trail back
- Footwear: Sturdy shoes with good grip—trails can be wet and slippery
- Allow 1.5-2 hours to see all four waterfalls at a comfortable pace
Park Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| 💵 Admission | FREE! |
| 🕐 Hours | 8 AM to 30 min before sunset (closing varies by season) |
| 📐 Size | 217 acres |
| 🏕️ Camping | NOT available (day-use only); nearby campgrounds exist |
| 🐕 Pets | Allowed on leash |
| 🚴 Bikes/Horses | NOT allowed on trails |
| 🎣 Fishing | Allowed along the river (license required) |
| 🧺 Picnic Areas | Available near parking |
Seasonal Hours
| Season | Closing Time |
|---|---|
| ☀️ May 1 – Aug 15 | 7:00 PM |
| 🍂 Aug 16 – Oct 31 | 6:00 PM |
| ❄️ Nov 1 – Mid-March | 4:00 PM |
| 🌸 Mid-March – Apr 30 | 6:00 PM |
🚧 Current Construction Notice (2025-2026)
- A new visitor center is under construction
- Upper parking lot is closed; parking is limited
- No RV or trailer parking during construction
- If lot is full, consider visiting another state park nearby
- Check official website for current alerts
Frequently Asked Questions
How many waterfalls are at Burgess Falls State Park?
Burgess Falls features four waterfalls along the Falling Water River: Falling Water Cascades (20 ft), Little Falls (30 ft), Middle Falls (80 ft), and the main Burgess Falls (136 ft). Together they drop over 250 feet in elevation. All four can be seen on the 1.5-mile River Trail/Service Road loop.
Is Burgess Falls hike difficult?
The River Trail is rated difficult due to stairs, elevation changes, and rugged terrain—especially the stairs near Middle Falls. However, there’s an easier alternative: the half-mile gravel service road leads directly to the Burgess Falls overlook and is suitable for most visitors. Many families with children complete the full trail by taking their time. Sturdy footwear with good grip is essential.
Can you swim at Burgess Falls?
Swimming at Burgess Falls is extremely dangerous and prohibited near the waterfalls due to strong currents, slippery rocks, and underwater hazards. The park is a designated State Natural Area with a focus on preservation. If you want to experience the base of the main falls, you can approach by kayak or boat from Cane Hollow Recreation Area on Center Hill Lake.
Is there an entrance fee for Burgess Falls?
No! Burgess Falls State Park is completely free to visit. There’s no entrance fee, no parking fee, and no permit required. This makes it one of Tennessee’s best free outdoor attractions. The park is open daily from 8 AM until 30 minutes before sunset (closing time varies by season).
Can you camp at Burgess Falls State Park?
No, camping is not allowed at Burgess Falls—it’s a day-use only park. However, several nearby options exist: Edgar Evins State Park (15 miles away) offers camping and cabins on Center Hill Lake, and Rock Island State Park (about 30 miles) has both camping and waterfalls. Private campgrounds are also available in the Cookeville area.
How long does it take to hike Burgess Falls?
The complete River Trail + Service Road loop is 1.5 miles and takes most visitors 1.5 to 2 hours to complete at a comfortable pace with stops at each waterfall. If you just want to see the main Burgess Falls, the half-mile gravel service road takes about 20-30 minutes each way. Add time for photos—you’ll want them!
🌊 Experience Four Waterfalls for Free!
With four stunning waterfalls, free admission, and proximity to Cookeville, Burgess Falls makes an ideal day trip. Check the official park website for current trail conditions and construction updates before your visit.
