Baker Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainPhoto Credits (1)
Difficulty
Hard
Trail Length
8.2 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Baker Falls
Baker Falls is a scenic waterfall located in Tennessee, known for its natural beauty and tranquil surroundings. It is part of the Virgin Falls State Natural Area, which features a variety of hiking trails and other waterfalls.
The Setting
Baker Falls sits at 1,010 feet along the Duck River, in the foothills of Tennessee.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Rainbow Falls (80 ft) lies 1.4 miles to the northeast. Also nearby: Machine Falls (60 ft, 4.0 mi).
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The trail to Baker Falls is part of the Virgin Falls Trail, which is a challenging hike featuring rugged terrain, steep inclines, and rocky paths. Baker Falls is located along the trail before reaching Virgin Falls, making it a scenic stop for hikers.
What to Expect
Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail involves steep, uneven terrain with significant elevation change and is not accessible to mobility devices.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Baker Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Baker Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and fall are the best times to visit due to cooler temperatures and vibrant foliage. Summer is also popular, but the trail can be hot and humid.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
The trail is rugged and can be slippery after rain. Be cautious near the waterfall and avoid getting too close to the edge. Always let someone know your hiking plans and carry a map or GPS device.
Current Water Conditions
12 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 79 years of record
-0.12 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is well below normal for this time of year, so the waterfall may be a trickle.
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge DUCK RIVER BELOW MANCHESTER, TN (4 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
12 cfs
4/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
13 cfs
5/10Thu
Barely Flowing
13 cfs
5/10Fri
Low
14 cfs
4/10Sat
Low
15 cfs
4/10Sun
Low
15 cfs
4/10Mon
Low
14 cfs
4/10Best window: Tomorrow — barely flowing flow, sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early February to late March, peaking in March.
How we calculate this
This is a transparent outlook, not a precise forecast. We take the waterfall's current flow strength (how it ranks against its historical normal for today, from the nearest USGS stream gauge), carry that ranking forward along the gauge's seasonal curve, and nudge it for forecast rain. Confidence is highest for the next day or two and falls further out. Always check official conditions and your own judgment before visiting — high flows can be dangerous.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Manchester hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
The Terrain, Seen by LiDAR
Aircraft-mounted lasers measured this ground to within inches. Trees and buildings are digitally stripped away, leaving the bare shape of the land the water has carved.
Here the descent is spread out: 1-meter lidar measures about 106 feet of drop through Baker Falls, stretched along the creek rather than stacked in one wall. The brink sits at about 1,012 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 48 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 79 feet in the 500 feet below. Facing south, the falls sit in full sun for most of the day, best photographed early or late.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 1,012 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 106 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- South
- Sunlit most of the day. Go early or late for softer light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading south).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Baker Falls is located within the Virgin Falls State Natural Area in Tennessee. The trailhead can be accessed from the Virgin Falls parking area, which is off Scott Gulf Road near Sparta, TN.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at the Virgin Falls trailhead. The lot may fill up during peak seasons, so arriving early is recommended.
Elevation
1,010 feet above sea level
Coordinates
35.470632° N, -86.167490° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy hiking boots and bring plenty of water. The trail can be muddy or slippery after rain, so exercise caution. Cell service may be limited in the area.
Where to Stay
Holiday Inn Express - Tullahoma by IHG
Comfort Suites Manchester near Arnold AFB
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Manchester - Arnold AFB
LivSmart Studios By Hilton Tullahoma
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Virgin Falls, Big Laurel Falls, and the Caney Fork River are nearby attractions within the Virgin Falls State Natural Area.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, birds, and small mammals. Be cautious of snakes, especially in warmer months.
Cities near Baker Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
LiDAR
Writing about Baker Falls? Embed this waterfall on your site for free.