Bald River Falls

Duration

30 minutes to 1 hour (longer if hiking to additional falls upstream)

Price

Free admission

Best For

Waterfall photographers • Families with older kids • Kayakers looking for put-in spots

Pro Tip

Drive up an extra quarter-mile to Baby Falls first - they have the only restrooms in the area, plus you can scope out how crowded Bald River Falls is before committing to the narrow parking area.

About Bald River Falls

Among the dozens of waterfalls scattered throughout the Smokies, Bald River Falls stands out as a true gem. This spectacular 90-foot cascade in Cherokee National Forest plunges dramatically over rocky ledges, creating a thunderous roar that visitors hear long before the falls come into view.

The journey to reach this natural wonder proves equally rewarding - Forest Road 210 meanders through some of the region's most stunning river scenery. Visitors can park directly adjacent to the falls and admire them from a convenient bridge, or take a short quarter-mile hike to the summit for breathtaking panoramic vistas.

What sets this waterfall apart is its ever-changing character. During dry periods, it transforms into a gentle cascade, while storm season unleashes a powerful torrent that rushes dramatically over the ancient rocks.

Visitors should note that parking fills quickly on weekends, and the access road remains quite narrow for two-way traffic. Weekday visits typically offer a more peaceful experience with easier parking.

The attraction remains completely free and accessible 24/7. Families often enjoy exploring the rocks at the base, though swimming near the falls themselves can be challenging due to strong currents.

Amenities & Features

No hiking necessary—waterfall is visible right from the road and viewing bridgeNewly expanded viewing area and bridge improve the experienceExcellent accessibility for visitors with limited mobilityOptional hiking trail to the top of the falls for those wanting more adventure

Don't Miss

90-Foot Main Cascade

The main waterfall drops dramatically over rocky ledges, creating different tiers that look completely different depending on recent rainfall. We love how the mist creates rainbows on sunny afternoons.

Bridge Viewing Platform

You can drive right up and view the falls from a sturdy bridge - no hiking required. It's one of the few waterfalls where you get this kind of easy access with such spectacular views.

Top of Falls Hike

The quarter-mile hike to the top gives you incredible panoramic views of the entire cascade. It's a bit of a scramble over rocks, but totally worth it for the photos.

Swimming Holes

The pools below the falls are deep enough for swimming, though the current can be strong. Our teenagers love jumping off the rocks into the calmer areas away from the main cascade.

FS Trail 88 to Six More Falls

If you're feeling ambitious, this 5.6-mile trail leads to six additional waterfalls upstream. It's a moderate hike that takes most of the day, but you'll have these falls mostly to yourself.

Kayak Put-In

The area under the bridge serves as a great launch point for kayaking the Bald River. It's an easy to medium difficulty run with beautiful scenery the entire way.

Know Before You Go

Parking is extremely limited - arrive early or visit weekdays to avoid crowds
Wear sturdy hiking shoes with good grip - the rocks get very slippery
Bring water and snacks - no facilities at the falls themselves
The road is narrow and winding - drive carefully and be patient with oncoming traffic
No wheelchair access due to rocky terrain and narrow trails

Book Tickets Online

Visitor Sentiment

Based on reviews

Bald River Falls receives consistently positive feedback from visitors. Located in Tellico Plains, it's a solid choice for the area.

Best Times to Visit Bald River Falls

Arrive early or late in the day to avoid peak crowds.

🔥Buzzing

Saturdays 10AM - 3PM

☀️Relaxed

Weekday mornings 9AM - 11AM

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the hours for Bald River Falls?

Bald River Falls is open 24/7 since it's in Cherokee National Forest. We recommend visiting during daylight hours for safety, and weekdays tend to be much less crowded than weekends.

How much does Bald River Falls cost?

Admission is completely free! It's part of the Cherokee National Forest, so there are no entrance fees or parking costs.

Do I need reservations for Bald River Falls?

No reservations needed - it's a public waterfall that you can visit anytime. Just be aware that parking is very limited, especially on weekends.

How long should I spend at Bald River Falls?

Most people spend 30 minutes to an hour here for photos and the short hikes. If you're planning to hike the FS Trail 88 to see the six additional falls upstream, plan for several hours.

Is Bald River Falls good for kids?

Yes, but we recommend kids be at least 8-10 years old since the rocks can be slippery and the trails require some scrambling. Teens absolutely love the swimming holes below the falls.

Is there parking at Bald River Falls?

There's very limited parking right at the falls - maybe 6-8 cars max. If it's full, you can park at Baby Falls about a quarter-mile upstream and walk down.

Can you swim at Bald River Falls?

Yes, people do swim in the pools below the falls, but it can get pretty rough close to where the water hits. The calmer swimming areas are around the edges of the pools.

When is the best time to see Bald River Falls at full flow?

The falls are most spectacular right after heavy rains when the water volume is at its peak. Spring is generally the best season, but honestly, we've seen it look amazing after any good storm.