The best waterfall hikes and walks in Scott County

Scott County, particularly in Tennessee, offers a selection of waterfall hiking trails. Our guide features 3 routes, ranging from easy strolls to more moderate adventures, all leading to impressive cascades or scenic river features.

Yes, Scott County has easy options perfect for families or those seeking a less strenuous walk. The Angel Falls Trail is an easy 6.2 km route that leads to the impressive Angel Falls Rapids along the Big South Fork River. Another accessible choice is the Emory Gap Trail, a 3.9 km easy hike.

The waterfalls in Scott County, especially those in the Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area, are generally at their most impressive during the spring months (March to May) due to increased rainfall and snowmelt. Fall also offers beautiful scenery with vibrant foliage, though water levels might be lower. Winter can provide unique frozen waterfall views, but trails may be more challenging.

Beyond the waterfalls, Scott County boasts several remarkable natural features. You can visit the massive South Arch (Twin Arches) and North Arch (Twin Arches), which are among the largest natural land bridges in the eastern U.S. The Big South Fork of the Cumberland River itself offers stunning gorge views, particularly from the Angel Falls overlook.

For those looking for a longer adventure, the Big Spring Falls from Blue Heron route is a moderate 12.3 km hike with over 400 meters of elevation gain, offering a more immersive experience within the Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area.

While our listed routes focus on specific waterfalls or features, many trails in the Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area are interconnected. For example, the Angel Falls area allows for exploration of both the rapids and the scenic overlook. You can often extend your hike to include nearby points of interest like the Twin Arches or sections of the Big South Fork River, creating a longer, more varied adventure.

The terrain around Scott County's waterfalls varies. In Tennessee's Big South Fork, you'll encounter a mix of riverine paths, forest trails, and sometimes more rugged sections with elevation changes, especially when accessing gorge-top viewpoints. Trails often wind through dense woodlands, alongside impressive rock formations, and near the river itself. In Virginia, trails like the one to Devil's Bathtub involve stream crossings and rocky sections, while Little Stony National Recreation Trail features footbridges and forest paths.

Many trails within the Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area in Tennessee are dog-friendly, provided your pet is on a leash. It's always best to check specific park regulations before heading out, but generally, the natural trails leading to waterfalls are welcoming to well-behaved dogs. Remember to bring water for your pet and clean up after them.

The komoot community rates the trails in Scott County highly, with an average score of 4.75 stars. Hikers frequently praise the stunning natural beauty of the Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area, the impressive power of the waterfalls and rapids, and the sense of remote wilderness found on many of the routes. The varied terrain and opportunities for exploration are also often highlighted.

Yes, particularly in the Tennessee portion of Scott County within the Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area. Bandy Creek Campground is a notable facility in the area, offering amenities for visitors looking to extend their stay and explore multiple trails. Other areas may have picnic spots or restrooms, but it's always wise to check specific trailheads for available facilities.

Yes, Scott County, Virginia, features notable waterfalls. The Little Stony National Recreation Trail leads to a beautiful 24-foot waterfall and is considered an easy-to-moderate 2.8-mile trail with footbridges. Another option is Cascade Falls, which is part of the more challenging, seven-plus-mile hike to Devil's Bathtub, involving stream beds and a more rugged experience.