Turtletown Creek Falls Loop

Explore two waterfalls along a scenic creek on the Turtletown Creek Falls trail. Located in the Cherokee National Forest in Tennessee, this is a must hike for any skill level. Bring the dog and the camera, because this is one of the best waterfall hikes in the southeast. For a shorter hike you can make this and in-and-out to the upper falls only.

Park at the end of the dirt/gravel road off of Farner Road. Parking is around a deep mud pit, so don't get stuck. You also have to make a small creek crossing just before the end. If you're not comfortable with this in a low ground clearance vehicle, just park along the road before it. The trail is right around the corner.

On the left side of the trailhead is a short side trail to the creek with a nice view of some cascades. The main trail begins on the right behind the metal gate. This is a hike I recommend for late fall to early spring as without the leaves on the trees, you'll be within ear and eye shot of the creek the entire way to the falls and get views of the falls from far above before descending to their base.

At 3/4 of a mile in, the trail splits to form the lollipop of this loop trail. For this description, stay to the left along the creek but you can head up to the right to save the upper falls for near the end of the hike. Staying along the creek, soon you'll hear the falls below you. Hike down some steep switchbacks to another intersection. Turn left for the falls. Right continues the loop.

Arrive at Turtletown Creek Falls at just under 1.1 miles in. This powerful double waterfall may not be one of the tallest, but is one of the most beautiful you'll find in the southeast.

Head back to the previous intersection and continue along the creek, hiking up a short but steep section. From here you'll descend until 1.8 miles where the trail splits again. To the left is a tenth of a mile side trail to the lower TurtleTown Creek Falls. From a rocky vantage point you'll have a perfect view of this equally powerful falls.

From here, retract your steps back to the loop and continue along the most difficult section, climbing a couple good hills before leveling out at about 2.7 miles. Returning to the first intersection, finish out this hike by trekking back along this scenic creek to the trailhead.