Burgess Falls State Park

Burgess Falls State Park is a state park with four waterfalls along Falling Water River in Putnam County, Tennessee. The terrain covers 88 hectares and the tallest drop plunges 130 feet (40 meters) down layered limestone ledges into a deep basin.

Tom Burgess operated a grain and lumber mill nearby during the 19th century and used the water power to run his machinery. The government converted the area into a protected park in the mid-20th century, preserving the falls for future generations.

The river carried its name long before settlers arrived and served as a landmark for trade routes through forested hills. Today visitors walk along the same waterway that drew people for thousands of years and shaped their paths through the upland terrain.

The 1.5-mile (2.4-kilometer) round-trip path leads downhill over some steep sections to reach each waterfall and requires sturdy footwear. Plan about two hours for the hike, as the return climb uphill can be tiring and may become slippery after rain.

The tallest cascade splits midway down and forms two parallel streams of water flowing over protruding rock ledges. This division formed through erosion of softer rock layers and changes its pattern depending on water levels throughout the year.