About Burgess Falls

Burgess Falls State Park in Putnam County is a middle Tennessee gem that delivers four distinct waterfalls in a single trail. The Falling Water River drops in stages through a dramatic limestone gorge — a small upper cascade, two mid-sized falls, and finally the main Burgess Falls, which plunges 136 feet into a canyon deep enough to feel genuinely remote despite being just 10 miles from Cookeville.

The trail along the gorge rim offers dramatic overlooks into the canyon, while a spur trail descends to the base of the main falls for a perspective that makes you feel very small. The sheer canyon walls are streaked with mineral deposits and draped in fern, and the Falling Water River runs an unusual greenish-blue clarity that makes the falls even more striking.

Trail Highlights

• Four distinct waterfalls on a single 3.8-mile trail
• 136-foot main Burgess Falls visible from both rim overlook and gorge-level trail
• Dramatically clear greenish-blue water in the Falling Water River
• Limestone canyon walls streaked with mineral deposits and draped in fern
• Only 10 miles from Cookeville — excellent for a half-day outing

Trail Description

From the Burgess Falls trailhead, follow the trail along the east rim of the Falling Water River gorge. The first cascade appears within the first 0.5 miles — a small but pretty 20-foot drop. Continue downstream as the gorge deepens.

The main Burgess Falls overlook appears at the 1.5-mile mark, delivering a stunning view into the 136-foot canyon. Take the spur trail down to the base for the full experience. The canyon walls tower above, and the mist from the falls is substantial. Return via the same rim trail.

Tips & What to Bring

• The spur trail to the base is steep and has limited railing — use caution
• The greenish-blue water color is natural — caused by dissolved limestone minerals
• Arrive early on summer weekends before the parking lot fills
• Bring a wide-angle lens — the canyon is wider than most cameras capture in one shot
• The park has picnic facilities and restrooms at the trailhead

Getting There

From Cookeville, TN, take TN-135 South approximately 8 miles. Turn right on Burgess Falls Road and follow signs for Burgess Falls State Park. GPS: 36.1000, -85.5800.