Stillhouse Hollow Falls State Natural Area
Tennessee

Stillhouse Hollow Falls State Natural Area

Available Activities
  • Hiking
  • Photography

๐Ÿ†๐Ÿ†๐Ÿ† 75-Foot Waterfall Cathedral โ€” Stunning waterfall plunging into a sandstone amphitheater

Stillhouse Hollow Falls State Natural Area features a 75-foot waterfall cascading into a natural sandstone amphitheater โ€” one of the most photographed waterfalls in Tennessee. The falls plunge over a sandstone ledge into a grotto carved from the rock over millennia, creating a cathedral-like space behind the water curtain. A 1-mile trail descends to the base of the falls through lush hemlock and hardwood forest.

Visitor Information

DetailInformation
LocationMaury County, TN
Entry FeeFree
Falls75 feet into sandstone amphitheater
Trail~1 mile to falls base

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I walk behind the waterfall?

Yes! The eroded grotto behind the falls allows you to walk behind the water curtain for dramatic photography. Use caution on the slippery rock surfaces.

About Stillhouse Hollow Falls

Stillhouse Hollow Falls State Natural Area in Maury County features a 75-foot waterfall cascading over a limestone amphitheater into a grotto โ€” one of middle Tennessee’s most spectacular natural features. The name references the moonshine stills that once operated in these hidden hollows during Prohibition. The waterfall’s overhang creates a natural room behind the falling water.

Things to Do

Hiking to the waterfall (1-mile trail), walking behind the falls through the limestone grotto, swimming in the pool below, photography of the amphitheater falls, and exploring the forested hollow. One of middle Tennessee’s hidden gems.

Insider Tips

Behind the waterfall: Stillhouse Hollow Falls drops 75 feet over a sandstone ledge โ€” and you can walk behind the falls on a natural rock shelf. Pro tip: The name “Stillhouse” likely refers to moonshine stills that operated in these hidden hollows during Prohibition. Short hike: The trail to the falls is only about 1 mile โ€” one of the most rewarding short hikes in Tennessee.

Best Time to Visit

Spring: Peak water flow โ€” the falls are at their best. Summer: Cool mist behind the falls. Fall: Foliage framing the waterfall. Winter: Ice formations โ€” spectacular but slippery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I really walk behind the waterfall?

Yes โ€” a natural rock ledge extends behind the 75-foot falls. The overhang is deep enough to stay relatively dry. Walking behind a waterfall is one of the most memorable experiences in Tennessee hiking. Be careful โ€” the rocks are slippery. The experience of standing behind a curtain of falling water is unforgettable.

๐ŸŒŠ Visit Stillhouse Hollow Falls SNA

75-foot waterfall into a sandstone cathedral โ€” walk behind the curtain.

๐Ÿ“ TN Natural Areas

Sarah Mitchell

About the Author

Outdoor Editor & Trail Expert

Sarah Mitchell is an outdoor writer and trail researcher with over 8 years of experience exploring state parks across America. As the lead editor at AmericasStateParks.org, she has personally visited more than 200 parks in 42 states, logging thousands of trail miles and hundreds of campground nights. Sarah specializes in detailed park guides, accessibility information, and family-friendly outdoor planning. Her work focuses on helping first-time visitors feel confident and well-prepared for their state park adventures.

200+ state parks visited across 42 states | 8+ years of outdoor writing

Last updated: May 10, 2026

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