About Bald River Falls

Bald River Falls is arguably the most photographed waterfall in Tennessee — and with good reason. The falls drop 90 feet directly into a pool at road level in the Cherokee National Forest near Tellico Plains in Polk County, making them visible from your car before you even open the door. A short walk delivers you to the base of the falls for one of the most dramatic close-up waterfall experiences in the eastern US.

The falls sit at the junction of the Bald River and the Tellico River, where the tributary plunges from a sandstone ledge into the main river. The Cherohala Skyway is just upstream — combine a visit to Bald River Falls with a drive along this spectacular national scenic byway for an unforgettable Polk County day.

Trail Highlights

• 90-foot plunge directly into a road-level pool — visible from the parking area
• Immediate close-up access to the base within a 2-minute walk
• Located at the scenic junction of the Bald and Tellico Rivers
• Perfect jumping-off point for a Cherohala Skyway scenic drive
• Excellent wildflower roadside meadows nearby in spring

Trail Description

Park in the designated pull-off on Forest Road 210 at the Bald River bridge. Walk 100 feet to the base of the falls, which are immediately visible from the parking area.

The pool at the base is accessible via a short scramble over river rocks. The full 90-foot face of the falls is visible from the pool edge — a stunning perspective. This is one of the easiest major waterfall visits in the state.

Tips & What to Bring

• The rocks at the base are extremely slippery — wear shoes with excellent grip
• Visit after rain for maximum flow — the falls can diminish in dry summer months
• Combine with the Cherohala Skyway drive starting at nearby Tellico Plains
• The surrounding national forest is excellent for fall foliage in October
• There is no trail fee; park in the designated pull-off and walk to the falls

Getting There

From Tellico Plains, TN, take TN-165 (Cherohala Skyway) East approximately 5 miles, then turn left on Forest Road 210. Follow FR-210 approximately 4 miles to the Bald River Falls pull-off at the bridge. GPS: 35.2900, -84.2600.