Our hike covered 1.37 miles and took about 46 minutes, including time for photos, enjoying the views, and navigating some muddy spots due to recent heavy rains. While the trail is officially rated “easy” and is well-marked and maintained, visitors should still be prepared for wet, muddy sections if it’s rained recently. We visited Burgess Falls State Park on a Thursday afternoon in late May as a quick stop on our road trip from Nashville to Knoxville. It only took about 15 minutes off I-40 to reach the trailhead, and we were thrilled to discover such a beautiful, well-maintained park just off the highway.
As part of our family’s journey to explore Tennessee State Parks, we recently made a stop at Burgess Falls State Park — and it did not disappoint! Located just a short 15-minute detour off I-40, Burgess Falls State Park offers one of Tennessee’s most spectacular waterfalls. If you’re looking for a beautiful, easy hike with a major payoff, this park is an ideal road trip stop between Nashville and Knoxville.
In this guide, we’ll share everything you need to know about hiking Burgess Falls State Park: trail stats, what to expect, tips for families, and how to pair it with other nearby adventures like Window Cliffs.
Quick Facts: Burgess Falls State Park
- Trail Name: Burgess Falls Trail
- Total Length: 1.2 miles (out and back)
- Elevation Gain: 170 feet
- Difficulty: Easy
- Average Time: ~30 minutes (we took 46 minutes with stops)
- AllTrails Rating: 4.7 stars
The Burgess Falls Trail takes you past three waterfalls — First Falls, Middle Falls, and the crown jewel: Burgess Falls, which cascades 130 feet into a dramatic gorge. According to the park, this is the third-largest waterfall in Tennessee, making it a must-see for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Our Family’s Experience
We visited Burgess Falls State Park on a Thursday afternoon in late May as a quick stop on our road trip from Nashville to Knoxville. It only took about 15 minutes off I-40 to reach the trailhead, and we were thrilled to discover such a beautiful, well-maintained park just off the highway.
Our hike covered 1.37 miles and took about 46 minutes, including time for photos, enjoying the views, and navigating some muddy spots due to recent heavy rains. While the trail is officially rated “easy” and is well-marked and maintained, visitors should still be prepared for wet, muddy sections if it’s rained recently.
We were blown away by the power of the waterfalls, especially Burgess Falls itself. The trail offers several overlooks where you can admire the waterfalls from above. Unfortunately, you can’t reach the base of the falls by foot, but you can kayak to it from Cane Hollow if you’re feeling adventurous. Swimming at the falls is prohibited for safety reasons, but the views alone make it worth the visit.
Highlights of Burgess Falls State Park
✅ Quick Access: Only a 15-minute detour off I-40, making it a perfect road trip break.
✅ Impressive Waterfalls: Three named waterfalls, including the massive 130-foot Burgess Falls.
✅ Family-Friendly Trail: Easy hike, short distance, and manageable elevation gain.
✅ Amenities: Bathrooms with running water, a playground, and a well-maintained parking lot.
✅ Dog-Friendly: Leashed dogs are welcome, and we saw several happy pups on the trail.
What You Should Know Before You Go
- Trail Condition: After rain, the trail can be muddy and slippery, so wear appropriate shoes.
- Limited Access to Falls Base: You can’t hike down to the bottom of Burgess Falls, but kayaking from Cane Hollow is an option.
- No Swimming: Swimming at the falls is not allowed due to safety hazards.
- Nearby Attractions: Window Cliffs State Natural Area is only about 10 miles away, but the two parks are not connected by trail — you’ll need to drive between them.
- Hours and Fees: Check the Burgess Falls State Park website for up-to-date information on operating hours and any entry fees.
Combining Burgess Falls with Other Adventures
When we first visited Window Cliffs earlier this spring, our plan was to combine it with Burgess Falls in one trip. However, Window Cliffs proved to be such a challenging and water-intensive hike that we saved Burgess Falls for a separate day. If you have the energy, pairing these two parks makes for an excellent day of hiking and sightseeing in Tennessee. Just remember you’ll need to drive about 10 miles between the two trailheads.
Why We Recommend Burgess Falls State Park
We highly recommend Burgess Falls State Park if you’re passing through Middle Tennessee. It’s not necessarily a destination hike we would plan an entire trip around, but as a road trip pit stop or an add-on to other hikes like Window Cliffs or Fall Creek Falls, it’s fantastic.
The short distance, ease of access, and stunning waterfall views make it family-friendly and beginner-friendly. Plus, the fact that it only takes about 30 minutes to complete means you can fit it into a busy travel day.
Tips for Visiting Burgess Falls State Park
- Bring water and wear sturdy shoes, especially after rain. You may want to bring an extra pair of shoes and socks
- Keep dogs on a leash and bring bags to clean up after them.
- Allow extra time if you want to take lots of photos or enjoy the views.
- Check the weather beforehand; water levels and trail conditions change with the rain.
- If you want to kayak to the base of Burgess Falls, research launch points and conditions at Cane Hollow.
Final Thoughts
Burgess Falls State Park is a shining example of the hidden gems tucked all across Tennessee. With a massive 130-foot waterfall, easy hiking trail, and convenient location, it’s just such an easy break in your day. Whether you’re a local looking for a quick outdoor escape or a traveler making your way across the state, this park deserves a spot on your list.
Be sure to check out our other Tennessee State Park adventures as we continue our family journey to explore the natural beauty of the Volunteer State.
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