Bald River Falls
A breathtaking 90-foot waterfall in Cherokee National Forest, easily accessible from the road with recent bridge improvements.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the weekend crowds
Bald River Falls
Best Time
Beat the weekend crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking 90-foot waterfall in Cherokee National Forest, easily accessible from the road with recent bridge improvements.
"Incredible accessibility and stunning beauty make Bald River Falls a must-see roadside wonder."
🚗 Drive Right Up!
No strenuous hiking needed to see the main falls! You can drive right to the viewing area. :car:
🅿️ Parking Patience
Parking is limited, especially on weekends. Arrive early or be prepared to wait. :parking:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Majestic Falls
Base of the falls
A stunning 90-foot cascade offering breathtaking views and powerful natural beauty. Perfect for photos!
New Viewing Bridge
Directly in front of the falls
A recently renovated bridge provides safe, elevated views and excellent photo opportunities.
Trail to the Top
Trailhead near the falls
A short, scenic hike leads to the top of the falls for a different perspective.
Rocky Path to the Base
Path from the viewing area
Venture down a steep, rocky path to get close to the water's edge and feel the spray.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Bridge Reopening & Access
Parking & Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Drive Right Up!
No strenuous hiking needed to see the main falls! You can drive right to the viewing area. :car:
🅿️ Parking Patience
Parking is limited, especially on weekends. Arrive early or be prepared to wait. :parking:
👟 Sturdy Shoes Recommended
For the rocky path to the base, wear shoes with good grip. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
No facilities on-site, so pack essentials for your visit. :water_wave:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive Right Up!
No strenuous hiking needed to see the main falls! You can drive right to the viewing area. :car:
🅿️ Parking Patience
Parking is limited, especially on weekends. Arrive early or be prepared to wait. :parking:
👟 Sturdy Shoes Recommended
For the rocky path to the base, wear shoes with good grip. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
No facilities on-site, so pack essentials for your visit. :water_wave:
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
Leashed dogs are welcome, making it a great spot for furry friends! :dog:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning beauty and incredible accessibility of Bald River Falls, with many highlighting the recent bridge renovations. The powerful cascade and scenic surroundings are consistently praised, though limited parking and the lack of nearby restrooms are noted drawbacks. Despite these minor inconveniences, it's considered a must-see natural wonder.
"Beautiful waterfall. Beautiful scenery. Enjoyed the drive up, especially simcebthe leaves were changing and absolutely gorgeous. Taken 11.02.2025. No hiking required to see it from the bridge area. There is a path with stairs so you can go to to top of the falls and rocky path that leads down below."
Kim Wasnorowicz
"You can drive right to the big waterfall, and it's very busy on the weekend. Limited parking at the falls.
There is a hike to the top of the falls that continues along the river (see attached map). It's a lengthy trail. Just to the initial switch backs is 0.75 miles, but it's a nice hike! Lots of elevation gain.
No bathrooms at the falls, but there is an outhouse about a mile up the road at another pull off/day use area."
Emily Berlin
"A wonderful place to spend the afternoon with family. The new bridge and viewing area is fantastic. Plenty of room with excellent views and safe from traffic. Great family photo spot with the falls in the background. You can venture down a steep rocky path and go in the water. It's cold and the spray is enjoyable on a hot day. It's really a sight to see from any angle. It can be crowded at times but it's still enjoyable. The one drawback is the popularity far outpaces the amount of parking available. At times inconsiderate people will just leave their car in the road and take pictures. It creates a big traffic mess. You can't escape rude people but it is what it is. The other drawback is no porta pottys and no bathrooms close by at all. None of this is a big issue if you prepare ahead of a visit. It's so worth a stop. Really a beutiful peaceful spot in Cherokee National Forest. All your stress will wash away walking in the water at the foot of the falls. It's especially enjoyable after a big rain. Just bring some patience and come experience a natural beauty."
John Green
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bald River Falls is located in the Cherokee National Forest, accessible via Tellico River Road. The road is scenic but can be narrow. Visitors can drive directly to the falls area.
Yes, the Bald River Falls Bridge and Tellico River Road have undergone restoration and are now open to visitors. 
The drive is scenic, especially during fall foliage. Be aware that Tellico River Road is a narrow, winding road suitable for two-way traffic.
While GPS can guide you to the general area, it's helpful to have a map or be familiar with the route as cell service can be spotty.
The road is narrow and winding, which may be challenging for larger RVs or trailers. It's best suited for standard vehicles.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Bald River Falls is free to visit. There are no admission fees required.
Bald River Falls is accessible year-round during daylight hours. The new bridge and viewing area are always open.
Parking at Bald River Falls is free of charge.
Yes, Bald River Falls can be visited in winter, though road conditions may vary depending on weather. The falls are beautiful year-round.
The main restriction is to be mindful of parking limitations and to keep dogs on a leash.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
No strenuous hiking is required to see the main falls from the viewing bridge. There are optional trails to the top and to the base.
You can see the main falls from the bridge in about 15-30 minutes. Allow extra time if you plan to explore the trails to the top or base.
There are no restrooms directly at the falls. An outhouse is located about a mile up the road at another pull-off area.
While you can venture down a steep path to get close to the water at the base, swimming directly in the powerful falls is not recommended due to strong currents.
Absolutely! Bald River Falls is a prime spot for photography, with the falls, bridge, and surrounding forest offering stunning shots.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Early morning or late afternoon light can be ideal. After rain, the falls are more powerful and dramatic for photos.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the entire falls and surrounding landscape. A tripod can help with long exposures, especially in lower light.
The new viewing bridge offers excellent perspectives. The trail to the top and the rocky path to the base also provide unique photo opportunities.
Yes, the rocky path to the base allows you to get very close, but be cautious of slippery rocks and the powerful spray.
The surrounding forest explodes with color in the fall, making it a spectacular backdrop for photos of the falls.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The short trail to the top offers a bit of an adventure, and the rocky path to the base, while steep, can be managed with close supervision for older children who want to get closer to the water. Remember to pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as there are no facilities on-site. Leashed dogs are also welcome, making it a fun outing for the whole family, including furry members.
Arriving early on weekdays is recommended to avoid crowds and ensure easier parking for your family vehicle.🚗 Day-Trippers & Roadside Attractions
+1It's a fantastic spot for a quick photo opportunity or a brief moment of natural immersion. The newly renovated bridge offers comfortable viewing, and the optional short trails provide options for those who want a little more exploration without committing to a long hike. Plan your visit during weekdays to enjoy a more serene experience.
🐶 Pet Owners
This makes it easy to include your furry companions in your outdoor adventures without worry.While dogs can enjoy the main viewing areas, ensure they are comfortable with the steep, rocky path if you plan to descend to the base. Always keep your pet on a leash and be mindful of other visitors. It's a great opportunity for some scenic photos with your well-behaved canine friend.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Bald River Falls: Accessibility and Trails
+1For those seeking a bit more adventure, there are distinct trails. A short, 1/8-mile hike leads to the top of the falls, offering a different vantage point. Additionally, a steep, rocky path descends to the base of the falls, allowing visitors to get up close to the powerful water and feel the refreshing spray. These trails provide opportunities for varied experiences, from a quick scenic stop to a more immersive nature exploration.
It's important to note that while the main viewing area is easily accessible, the path to the base is steep and can be slippery, requiring sturdy footwear. The trail to the top is also a hike with elevation gain. Planning your visit based on your desired level of activity is key to enjoying all that Bald River Falls has to offer.
The Best Times to Visit Bald River Falls
Autumn is a particularly magical time to visit, as the surrounding Cherokee National Forest bursts into vibrant fall colors, creating a stunning contrast with the cascading water.
While the falls are accessible in winter, visitors should be prepared for potential weather-related road conditions. Regardless of the season, arriving early in the day is a consistent tip from visitors to maximize enjoyment and secure parking.
Photography Opportunities at Bald River Falls
+1For more dynamic shots, the trail to the top of the falls offers an elevated perspective, allowing photographers to capture the water's descent and the expansive forest views. The steep, rocky path to the base provides an opportunity for dramatic close-ups, where the power of the water is palpable and the spray can add an ethereal quality to images.
Consider visiting during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset for the best natural light. If you're visiting after a rain, the increased water flow will make for incredibly powerful and photogenic scenes. Don't forget a wide-angle lens to capture the full scope of the falls and its environment, and a tripod can be useful for longer exposures, especially in lower light conditions.
+1
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit