Burgess Falls State Park is a beautiful place to visit. It is perfect for those who are looking for a relaxing stroll or a more challenging hike. You can also find a nice picnic area to enjoy with friends or family members.This day-use park sits on the Falling Water River and features four waterfalls. It has an easy-to-moderate trail named the River Trail/Service Road Loop that is not considered to be strenuous or difficult. Read this first!
Parking
Burgess Falls State Park is open year-round with the exception of days of high precipitation. The most popular activity at the park is hiking the 1.1 mile roundtrip Burgess Falls Trail which leads to a series of waterfalls cascading down over 250 feet into a deep gorge.The park’s natural trails also provide scenic picnic locations. The large gorge carved out by Falling Water River is home to 4 exquisite waterfalls including the magnificent Burgess Falls.In addition to hiking the park’s scenic trails visitors can enjoy fishing from a pier located below the dam or on the bank of Center Hill Lake. Fishing is allowed year-round and common catches include bream, Largemouth Bass, and Smallmouth Bass. A Tennessee fishing license is required to fish in the park.Cookeville and Sparta are both located near the state park and offer a variety of restaurants, modern attractions, museums, and more. For a more urban experience, Nashville is just about a 60-mile drive away.
Restrooms
Located on the Falling Water River, which also creates the famous Fall Creek Falls in Cookeville, Burgess Falls State Park is a nature lover’s paradise. With four waterfalls along the trail (Falling Water Cascades is only a few feet from the parking lot) and more in the gorge below, this is one of Tennessee’s best natural attractions. Besides the waterfalls, there are picnic areas with grills and tables, restrooms, and a playground. A large covered pavilion can be reserved for group events and is conveniently located near the fishing pier and main waterfall. The park is open year-round. Dogs are not allowed on the trail. Here is another spot to visit.
Picnicking
Burgess Falls State Park is popular for its waterfalls, but the park also has many other activities that make it a great family destination. The park has a large covered pavilion with scenic views of the river and several picnic areas that are suited for larger groups.The River Trail at the park is a short and easy hike that leads to four waterfalls, including the 136-foot Burgess Falls. The park also features a scenic overlook across the river and the dam.The park is also known for its wildlife and native plant species. The area is a natural wildflower haven during the springtime, while visitors can enjoy native birding throughout the year. The park is home to a variety of forest species such as Tufted Titmouse, Ovenbird, and Scarlet Tanager.
Hiking
Burgess Falls State Park is a day-use park with several hiking trails. The most popular trail is the River Trail which runs along the Falling Water River showcasing four waterfalls and natural beauty. This is also a great trail for beginners and those who want to add a little challenge to their hikes.Hikers can also enjoy a scenic view from the top of the last waterfall by walking up a large set of stairs. The last waterfall plunges over 130 feet into the gorge and has left many visitors in awe of its beauty.Other popular activities at the state park include fishing, picnicking with family and friends, canoeing, and kayaking. The park also offers a Native Butterfly Garden, creek studies, wildlife viewing, and organized nature hikes. The park also manages the nearby Window Cliff State Natural Area which is a geological wonder with narrow ridges and sheer bluffs. These two parks together make the perfect day trip for anyone who loves nature and hiking. Next blog post.
Driving directions from Big Daddys Signs to Burgess Falls State Park
Driving directions from Burgess Falls State Park to Cummins Falls State Park
