Cascade Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Cascade Falls
Cascade Falls is a picturesque waterfall located near Normandy, Tennessee. It is known for its serene setting and relatively easy access, making it a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. The waterfall flows over a rocky ledge into a shallow pool, surrounded by lush greenery.
The Setting
Cascade Falls sits at 991 feet along the Duck River, in the foothills of Tennessee.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The trail to Cascade Falls is a short and relatively flat path, making it suitable for most visitors. It winds through a wooded area with occasional views of the surrounding landscape. The trail is well-marked and easy to follow, leading directly to the waterfall.
What to Expect
Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Cascade Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Cascade Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are the best times to visit Cascade Falls, as the water flow is typically strongest during these seasons. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while winter may provide a quieter experience.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Visitors should exercise caution near the waterfall, as rocks can be slippery. Be mindful of weather conditions, as rain can make the trail muddy and more challenging to navigate.
Current Water Conditions
16 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 79 years of record
-0.07 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
This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge DUCK RIVER BELOW MANCHESTER, TN (12 km away).
Today
Roaring
16 cfs
8/10Tomorrow
Roaring
16 cfs
9/10Thu
Roaring
16 cfs
9/10Fri
Roaring
18 cfs
6/10Sat
Roaring
20 cfs
6/10Sun
Roaring
19 cfs
6/10Mon
Roaring
19 cfs
6/10Best window: Tomorrow — roaring 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 Normandy 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.
1-meter lidar shows the creek losing roughly 119 feet through Cascade Falls over a long run of ledges. Elevation at the pin is about 986 feet.
The ground changes about 66 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 55 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
- 986 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 119 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
Cascade Falls is located near Normandy, Tennessee, approximately 2.3 miles from Normandy, 3.4 miles from Tullahoma, and 8.9 miles from Manchester. The coordinates for the falls are 35.4212, -86.2397. Visitors can access the falls via a short drive from nearby towns.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available near the trailhead, but spaces may be limited during peak seasons. Visitors are advised to arrive early to secure a spot.
Elevation
991 feet above sea level
Coordinates
35.421188° N, -86.239714° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy shoes as the trail may have uneven sections. Bring water and snacks, especially during warmer months. Arrive early to avoid crowds and secure parking.
Where to Stay
LivSmart Studios By Hilton Tullahoma
Holiday Inn Express - Tullahoma by IHG
Comfort Suites Manchester near Arnold AFB
TownePlace Suites by Marriott 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
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Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include Normandy Lake, Tims Ford State Park, and the town of Tullahoma, which offers dining and shopping options.
Wildlife
The area is home to various bird species, deer, and small mammals. Visitors may also encounter insects such as mosquitoes, especially in warmer months.
Cities near Cascade Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Aerial
Other waterfalls named Cascade Falls
24 other waterfalls share this name across the U.S.
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