Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Bluehole Falls
Bluehole Falls is a picturesque cascade tucked near Elizabethton, Tennessee, within the Blue Hole Recreation Area and the Old Stone Fort State Park (managed by OTHS). The falls tumble through a canopy of mature forest, creating a series of small drops and pools framed by mossy rock and hardwoods. Visitors come for the easy-to-enjoy scenery and the peaceful, wooded setting that makes for a refreshing half-day outing.
The Setting
Bluehole Falls sits at 971 feet within Old Stone Fort, fed by the Duck River, in the foothills of Tennessee.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The hike to Bluehole Falls is a 2.4-mile out-and-back with about 350 feet of elevation gain and is rated moderate. The tread is natural dirt with some rocky sections and short, moderately steep pitches—non-technical but uneven in places—so sturdy footwear is recommended. The trail passes through shaded forest and ends at the base of the falls, where hikers can pause to enjoy the view before returning the same way.
What to Expect
Swimming is permitted. Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is short and relatively flat, but the surface may be uneven. Contact the managing agency for accessibility details.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Bluehole Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Bluehole Falls?
✅ Swimming is allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting Bluehole Falls, as the water flow is typically stronger during these seasons. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while summer provides opportunities for wading or cooling off near the falls.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Exercise caution on the trail, as rocks can be slippery, especially after rain. Be mindful of water levels and currents if swimming. Always supervise children and pets near the water.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge DUCK RIVER BELOW MANCHESTER, TN (2 km away).
Today
Moderate
13 cfs
8/10Tomorrow
Moderate
13 cfs
9/10Fri
Moderate
16 cfs
6/10Sat
Strong
17 cfs
7/10Sun
Moderate
16 cfs
6/10Mon
Moderate
15 cfs
6/10Tue
Moderate
15 cfs
6/10Best window: Tomorrow — moderate flow, sunny (trip score 9/10).
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.
Through the falls the surface drops roughly 72 feet over a short, steep run of tiers. Elevation at the pin is about 970 feet.
The ground changes about 46 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 62 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face northwest and stay mostly shaded, with soft, even light all day.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 970 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 72 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Northwest
- Mostly shaded, so the light stays soft and even all day.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading northwest).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Bluehole Falls is located in the Cherokee National Forest, approximately 10 miles from Elizabethton, Tennessee. Visitors can access the falls via Panhandle Road (Forest Road 56). Follow signs for the Blue Hole Recreation Area.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a small parking area near the trailhead, but it can fill up quickly during peak seasons. Arrive early to secure a spot.
Elevation
971 feet above sea level
Coordinates
35.486272° N, -86.104148° W
Land Management
Managed by OTHS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially on weekends. Wear sturdy shoes as the trail can be rocky and slippery in places. Bring water and snacks, as there are no facilities nearby.
Where to Stay
Comfort Suites Manchester near Arnold AFB
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Manchester - Arnold AFB
Best Western Manchester
Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Manchester - Newly Renovated
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
Other attractions in the Cherokee National Forest include Laurel Falls, Watauga Lake, and the Appalachian Trail.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Be cautious of snakes, especially during warmer months.
Cities near Bluehole Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
LiDAR
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