Waterfall Hero Hikes: Bald River Waterfall (Cherokee)

There is a 15-foot waterfall on Bald River in Monroe County, Tennessee. The waterfall is located in Bald River Gorge Wilderness.

Hike Length: 0.4 miles
Estimated Time: < 1 hour
Difficulty: Easy
Location: Bald River Gorge Wilderness (Tellico Ranger District of Cherokee National Forest)
Trail Users: Hiking only
Dogs: Yes
Features: Waterfalls (1)
Crowds: Low
Warnings: The rocks around waterfalls are slippery.
Trailhead GPS: 35.28814,-84.18569
Waterfall GPS: 35.29071,-84.18441

Directions:

From Tellico Plains, head east on Cherohala Skyway for 8.2 miles and turn right on Turkey Creek Road. Bear left and follow Turkey Creek Road for 0.8 miles to the end at Tellico River Road (FR-210). Make a sharp left on follow FR-210 for 9.8 miles, then turn right on Green Cove Road. In 1 mile, turn left on Bald River Road/FR-126. Go 5 miles on FR-126 to a small pull-off on the left just before the bridge over Bald River.

Map:

Hike Description:

Pick up Bald River Trail (#88) on the other side of the road and head into the wilderness, following the river downstream. In 0.2 miles, the waterfall is just off the trail to the left. There is a nice rocky area to rest and enjoy the waterfall.