Written by Gabriella Bellot
Recently, a reader asked us about hikes to area caves + waterfalls.
We caved and made a guide for those wanting misty mornings by the water and serene explorations of cave formations. Let’s take the plunge.
🥾Waterfalls
Lula Falls at Lula Lake, 5000 Lula Lake Rd. | On Open Gate Days, there are several hiking trails you can take to reach the 120-ft waterfall — Lula Lake recommends the 4.2-mile Out + Back route.
Glen Falls Trail, Glen Falls Trailhead, TN-58 | Try this quick, beginner-level hike that features stone steps + of course, a waterfall.
Rainbow Falls, 304 Ohio Ave. | Located on Signal Mountain, this moderate hike leads to a waterfall that often showcases rainbows in its mist on sunny afternoons.
Foster Falls Climbers Loop Trail, 498 Foster Falls Rd. | This 2.5-mile trail in Sequatchie features the Foster Falls waterfall, scenic views along the Fiery Gizzard Trail, and moderately rocky terrain.
Stinging Fork Falls, Spring City Area | A little over an hour away, this rocky trail features a 30-ft waterfall amid green moss + a creek.
Benton Falls Trail, 3171 US-64, Benton | This Chilhowee Recreation hike is an easier, 3-mile trek that leads to a 65-ft waterfall.
🥾Caves
Raccoon Mountain Caverns, 319 W Hills Dr. | If you’re looking for something more structured, the Crystal Palace tour offers a guided walk into the first 1/4 mile of the Raccoon Mountain cave.
Ruby Falls, on Lookout Mountain | While not a formal hike per se, this classic attraction offers a 2-in-1 with both a 145-ft waterfall + cave tours.
Pettyjohn’s Cave, 3440 Chamberlain Rd. Lafayette, GA | If you’re wanting to get down + dirty, this 6.5-mile underground trail is perfect for adventurous cavers. Disclaimer — while this cave is open to the public, it is recommended to bring proper equipment and travel with someone more experienced, as the cave has been home to several injuries in the past.
Lost Cove’s Buggytop Cave, Buggy Top Cave Trailhead | It’s recommended for beginners to tag along on a ranger-led trip to help get familiarized with this wild cave. Disclaimer — A permit is required to enter this cave.
Bonus: The Caverns, 55 Charlie Roberts Rd., Pelham | Last summer, this underground music venue opened a new cave show room with guided tours.
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