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Is there anything more magical than a frozen waterfall? Is there anything more beautiful than a water feature, normally gushing and wild in the summertime, that goes frosty? Fall Creek Falls State Park in Spencer is the most popular state park in Tennessee, and its namesake – Fall Creek Falls – really ups the ante come wintertime. Take a peek below, and maybe plan a chilly winter hike for yourself. There’s truly nothing more beautiful and I’ll bet that you'll capture some incredible photos, too! Have you hiked to a frozen waterfall in Tennessee before?
Fall Creek Falls State Park is a rural, protected natural area that's known for its beautiful views and opportunities for outdoor activities. The park is one of the largest in the state and encompasses a massive 29,800 acres. We can tell you from experience that this park is filled with adventure for just about any outdoor activity you enjoy and it is where you'll find some of the best hiking trails in Tennessee.
The most popular spot to visit in the park is the famed Fall Creek Falls, a 256-foot-high waterfall that is one of the highest waterfalls in the eastern United States. The park itself is studded with multiple waterfalls, streams, cascades, and expansive gorges. You can see the waterfall after a short walk from the parking lot and this viewpoint will give you an overall look at the falls. However, if you wish to truly experience it, you have to hike down to the base of the falls.
Other popular spots to visit include Piney Falls, Cane Creek Cascades, and Cane Creek Falls. You can witness some of the best waterfalls in Tennessee right here in this incredible state park. Fall Creek Falls State Park straddles Bledsoe and Van Buren Counties but is considered to be located in Spencer, Tennessee.
Isn't this shot incredible? Fall Creek Falls doesn't freeze completely, but the area becomes frosted with snow and ice, making for an incredible view. The best way to see the falls is the Fall Creek and Coon Creek Falls via Base of the Falls Trail, which is just under a mile in length. This hike also provides plenty of amazing points of interest along the way like a towering rockwall and cave.
The moderate hike will take you down to the base of the falls and back and features the waterfall and a heap of lush plant life along the way. When you hike down to the base you will experience the sheer power of the flowing water. As the water plunges into the pool below, you will feel the wind and get misted allowing you to fully experience this mighty fall.
The views are almost unreal. The hike is appropriate for folks of (almost) all ages, but make sure your little ones are able to walk for an extended period of time. The terrain does tend to be a bit rocky, and you'll want to watch out for muddy spots! If the trail is snowy and icy, a good pair of Microspikes will give you plenty of grip.
The beauty of Tennessee is truly unmatched, don't you think? There's just something about the ice and snow that makes the Volunteer State look like a winter wonderland. If you're looking to learn more about this frozen waterfall in Tennessee, visit the Fall Creek Falls State Park website.
