Burgess Falls

Burgess Falls is a waterfall system along the Falling Water River with multiple drops totaling about 136 feet. The river has carved a deep limestone valley with walls rising about 200 feet on either side.

The area came under state protection in the 1970s to preserve the natural landscape and its waterfall system. This designation ensured the site would be maintained as a public space for future generations.

The site teaches visitors about how water shapes rock and creates the landscape over time through natural processes. Signage along the trails explains the local geology and what makes this water system important to the region.

Visitors walk a trail about 1.6 miles round-trip that passes several observation areas along the falls. The paths are marked and maintained, allowing people to view each waterfall level from different angles.

The waterfall system has four separate drops, each forming its own pool before the water flows into Center Hill Lake. This sequence of cascades allows visitors to experience the power of flowing water at different stages along the same river.

Location: Putnam County

Part of: Falling Water River

GPS coordinates: 36.04417,-85.59418

Latest update: December 11, 2025 11:06