Right in the heart of Chattanooga, our cozy getaways at Wauhatchie Woodlands and Mountain’s Ledge provide the perfect starting point for exploring this amazing city and its nearby waterfalls. The nearest waterfall is a quick 8-minute drive from downtown Chattanooga, giving you the flexibility to enjoy the falls and still have plenty of time for an early dinner in the city. Even the waterfall that’s furthest away won’t keep you on the road for too long; it’s just an hour’s drive. So, whether you’re looking for a quick escape or a mini road trip, these waterfalls are all well within reach.
Glen Falls
1.2 miles | out and back | moderate
Looking for a waterfall that is just a short drive from downtown Chattanooga? Then let me introduce you to Glen Falls; not only is it accessible, but it’s worth the visit. Glen Falls is on a manageable 1.2-mile out-and-back trail near Lookout Mountain. The best part is that it’s only a 41-minute hike, and every minute is packed with beauty and adventure.
As you navigate the trail, you will be greeted by little surprises: several smaller falls that build the anticipation of the grand reveal. As you start your ascent to the falls, you will navigate through stone stair paths and climb through a stone door carved right into the rock, leading you to a beautiful overlook.
Even though this trail is short, it is nothing short of being full of surprises. Just beyond the stone door, you’ll discover a bridge that leads to a small pool, the perfect spot to take a break and cool off.
When you arrive, you’ll be met by the sight of a gentle stream of water cascading over rocky terrain. The flow of the falls changes depending on the weather, so it’s likely you will have a unique experience every time. Whether it is a full cascade or a gentle trickle, you will have a memorable experience.
Lula Falls
3.2 miles | loop | moderate
Prepare to be blown away by the beauty of Lula Falls. This stunning 120-foot freefall is tucked away within the Lula Lake Land Trust.
To experience the magic of this place, it is crucial to note that the Lula Lake Land Trust is only open to the public on select days of the week. So it is important to reserve your visit in advance.
The access point leading to the falls might involve a bit of a workout—think steep terrain and more than a fair share of stairs. But the waterfall truly comes to life when you reach the bottom of the gorge.
Rainbow Falls
2.6 miles | loop | challenging
Prepare for an enjoyable adventure to this 80-foot waterfall located minutes from downtown, which offers easy access to Signal Point and beautiful views of the Tennessee River Gorge.
You begin the hike at the Rainbow Lake Trailhead, where you make your way to Rainbow Lake. This section is a breeze and the perfect trail for all levels of hikers.
The real adventure continues past the lake when you continue your trek toward Rainbow Falls. Follow the trail to the swinging bridge—but don’t cross it if you’re heading to the falls. Stay on the path marked by white blazes toward Signal Point.
The final descent down to the falls is rugged and not as well-maintained, but the views from the bottom are well worth the effort.
Blowing Wind Falls
3.6 miles | loop | moderate
Come ready to be blown away by Blowing Wind Falls, a 30-foot waterfall in Prentice Cooper State Forest. It’s reached via a 3.6-mile loop on the Ritchie Hollow Trail.
The trailhead starts just above the gravel parking lot across from the Pot Point Cabin. Much of the hike is rocky with a steady incline through mature hardwood forest.
At the end, the falls reveal themselves over multiple cascades with rocky overlooks draped in greenery.
If you’re feeling adventurous, continue another mile to the Davis Pond campground.
Falling Water Falls
0.3 miles | out and back | easy
Nestled within a 136-acre natural area in Hamilton County, Falling Water Falls is a true gem—an 110-foot plunge over the Cumberland Plateau into a scenic gorge.
The trail is a quick 0.3 miles out and back to the top of the falls, making it an easy win with big views.
The top of the falls sits near Walden, while much of the natural area extends beneath the falls toward Soddy-Daisy—an awesome contrast of wild beauty near the city.
Hemlock and Cherokee Falls
1 mile | out and back | easy
Located in Cloudland Canyon State Park atop Lookout Mountain, the Waterfall Trail gives you two falls in one hike.
You’ll start on an easy paved path, then tackle a 600-step staircase down to the creek and waterfalls—worth it for the views and the soundtrack of Daniel Creek.
Cherokee Falls is 0.3 miles from the trailhead and drops 60 feet through the trees.
Continue another 0.5 miles to Hemlock Falls, a 90-foot stunner with an observation deck at the end.
Denny Cove Falls
2.8 miles | out and back | moderate
Tucked away in Denny Cove in South Cumberland State Park, this 70-foot waterfall sits near a popular rock-climbing area—but it’s just as rewarding for hikers.
The hike starts with a mellow 0.5-mile walk along the plateau, then descends about a mile down the side to reach the falls.
Near the end, the incline picks up and the anticipation builds—until the falls appear in a small opening with a clear, dramatic view.
Foster Falls
0.6 miles | out and back | moderately challenging
Foster Falls sits along the Fiery Gizzard Trail and is a quick, rewarding hike for just about any skill level.
The short route makes a steep descent to the base, where you’ll find a creekside area and a refreshing pool for swimming. From there, the trail follows the rock wall and eventually returns to the rim for an overhead view of the falls.
If you want more mileage, the rim trail extends much farther—perfect for turning a short adventure into a big one.
Laurel Falls
3 miles | out and back | moderate
Get excited for a journey to Laurel Falls in the Laurel Snow State Natural Area, an 80-foot beauty just outside Dayton, Tennessee.
The hike begins along Richland Creek on a level stretch that used to be an old paved road. About a mile in, the trail narrows and climbs more steeply before crossing a bridge over Laurel Creek.
The final push includes switchbacks leading to the base of the falls, where you’ll be rewarded with an 80-foot plunge and a series of cascades.
And there you have it—a lineup of waterfall adventures in and around Chattanooga. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just craving fresh air, each of these trails delivers a new perspective and a memorable payoff. Grab your waterfall-chasing essentials and go have a good time!
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