Secret Tennessee Hike Leads to a Stunning Two-Tiered Waterfall—But Few Know About It!
Hidden deep in Tennessee, there’s a stunning two-tiered waterfall, a thrilling hike, and a secluded swimming hole—if you know where to look! 🌐 #News #BeershebaSpringsTN #Tennessee #Travel
BEERSHEBA SPRINGS, TN – Tennessee is packed with breathtaking landscapes, from the misty peaks of the Great Smoky Mountains to rugged state parks brimming with wildflowers. The state is home to countless hiking trails, waterfalls, and hidden swimming holes, but some of its most spectacular spots remain lesser known. One such place is Greeter Falls, a secluded paradise where cascading waters plunge into crystal-clear pools inside Savage Gulf State Park.
This awe-inspiring natural retreat is just over an hour from Chattanooga and less than two hours from Nashville. The park spans 19,000 acres and was once part of South Cumberland State Park before becoming its own protected area in 2022.
The Greeter Falls Loop, a 1.1-mile trail, winds through towering pines, oaks, and hickory trees before dropping into a dramatic sandstone gorge carved by Firescald Creek. The descent is steep, making for a challenging but rewarding trek.
A Stairway to Nature’s Wonder
Hikers first reach Upper Greeter Falls, where water crashes over a jagged rock ledge before continuing downstream. The true highlight, however, lies below. A spiraling metal staircase leads to Lower Greeter Falls, a breathtaking 50-foot cascade that tumbles into a pristine swimming hole.
Unlike the upper falls, where strong currents make swimming dangerous, the lower pool is often calm and inviting. Conditions can change, though, so checking with park rangers before diving in is always a smart move.
Tips for Visiting Greeter Falls
For those looking to take a dip, the best time to visit is between June and August when the summer heat makes the chilly water feel refreshing. Hikers, on the other hand, will enjoy the trail between February and October, when conditions are more favorable, and ice isn’t a concern.
Navigating to the trailhead is simple—just enter “Savage Gulf State Park (West Trailhead – Greeter Falls)” into a GPS system and follow the directions. However, visitors should note that multiple trails branch off from this starting point.
To reach the falls directly, follow signs labeled “Greeter Falls” and avoid paths leading to the longer Greeter Homeplace Trail.
Since the metal staircase and wooden bridge near the falls can be slippery, wearing sturdy hiking boots with excellent traction is recommended. While the terrain is steep, most hikers find the trail manageable.
Those accustomed to hilly hikes will likely find the journey moderate in difficulty, but anyone uncomfortable with heights should take their time on the descent.
More to Explore in Savage Gulf State Park
The adventure doesn’t have to stop at Greeter Falls. A short detour on the same loop trail leads to Broadtree Falls, a peaceful cascade flowing over moss-covered rocks. Unlike Greeter Falls, which attracts more visitors, Broadtree Falls remains a quiet retreat where nature’s sounds take center stage.
Another must-see destination is the Blue Hole Trail, a half-mile path leading to a secluded swimming hole tucked inside a breathtaking gorge. The crystal-clear waters and surrounding rock formations make it a perfect spot for cooling off after a hike.
Savage Gulf State Park offers far more than waterfalls, with nearly 60 miles of trails for those who want to explore deeper.
The Great Stone Door Trail, just under two miles long, rewards hikers with panoramic views of the mountains. The path cuts through a narrow rock crevice before opening up to an expansive overlook, making it a favorite among photographers.
For a longer trek, the Laurel Trail spans 5.6 miles through remote, wooded areas, offering a quieter escape for those looking to avoid the crowds. With backcountry camping, rock climbing, and picnic areas scattered throughout the park, there’s no shortage of outdoor adventure waiting in this Tennessee treasure. Happy travels!
Address: Savage Gulf State Park, 1183 Stone Door Rd, Beersheba Springs, TN 37305
RELATED TOPICS: Tennessee | Travel
Sign Up for Our Newsletter
We value your feedback! Did you find this article informative, inspiring, or thought-provoking? Leave a comment below and join the discussion. We appreciate your opinion and look forward to hearing from you!
