Double Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Hard
Trail Length
8.6 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
1,200 ft
About Double Falls
Double Falls is a picturesque twin cascade tucked into the forested gorge of the Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area. Managed by the National Park Service (NPS) and located within a unit with a WSR designation, the falls split into two graceful streams before dropping into a shaded pool—an inviting subject for photographers and hikers who appreciate a more remote, scenic stop on the trail. The most common approach is along the Virgin Falls Trail, an 8.6-mile out-and-back route with about 1,200 feet of elevation gain that’s rated hard. Hikers should expect rocky tread, steep climbs and creek crossings; Double Falls comes up at roughly 1.6 miles into the route and makes a satisfying turnaround for day visitors. For overnight stays, Bandy Creek Campground lies nearby (about 9.43 km away).
The Setting
Double Falls sits at 997 feet within Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area, fed by the Clear Fork, in the foothills of Tennessee.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The hard 8.6-mile out-and-back trail gains 1,200 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The route to Double Falls follows the Virgin Falls Trail through Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area (managed by the NPS). This is an 8.6-mile out-and-back with approximately 1,200 feet of cumulative elevation gain and a "hard" difficulty rating. Trail tread is natural and often rocky, with steep grades and several creek crossings—expect uneven footing, exposed roots and occasional ledges. Double Falls is encountered at about 1.6 miles into the trail and serves as a common stopping point for hikers who do not continue on to Virgin Falls.
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 Double Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Double Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and fall are the best times to visit due to cooler temperatures and vibrant foliage. The waterfall flow is typically strongest in spring after rainfall.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited. Check the National Park Service website for current conditions.
Safety Information
The trail can be slippery and muddy after rain. Watch for loose rocks and roots. Cell phone service may be limited, so inform someone of your plans before heading out.
Current Water Conditions
35 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 86 years of record
1.55 ft
Water depth at gauge
68°F
CoolRefreshing for swimming
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year. Water temperature is a refreshing 68 degrees F, good for a quick swim. Expect adequate dissolved oxygen levels. PH is normal at 7.3 and mineral content is typical.
Water Quality
Dissolved Oxygen
GoodAdequate oxygen levels
pH
NormalWithin healthy range (6.5-8.5)
Conductance
Dissolved minerals in the water
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge CLEAR FORK NEAR ROBBINS, TN (4 km away).
Today
Moderate
35 cfs
9/10Tomorrow
Moderate
39 cfs
9/10Tue
Moderate
37 cfs
9/10Wed
Moderate
34 cfs
9/10Thu
Moderate
35 cfs
6/10Fri
Moderate
38 cfs
6/10Sat
Moderate
34 cfs
6/10Best window: Today — moderate flow, sunny (trip score 9/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late January to early April, peaking in February.
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 Helenwood 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 116 feet over a short, steep run of tiers. Elevation at the pin is about 986 feet.
The whole reach is steep: about 289 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the falls and another 218 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face southwest and 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
- 986 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 116 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Southwest
- 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 southwest).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Double 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
997 feet above sea level
Coordinates
36.427021° N, -84.625496° W
Land Management
Managed by NPS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Start early to avoid crowds and ensure you have enough daylight for the hike. Bring plenty of water, snacks, and sturdy hiking boots. Be prepared for uneven terrain and potential muddy sections, especially after rain.
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This challenging 8.6 miles trail gains 1,200 ft in elevation — come prepared with proper hiking boots and trekking poles. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.
America the Beautiful Annual Pass
Covers entrance fees at 2,000+ federal recreation sites — required at most National Parks.
Sawyer Squeeze Water Filter
The backcountry standard — filters 99.9% of bacteria and weighs just 3 oz.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.
Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)
Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.
Timberland Euro Sprint Mid Waterproof
Trusted waterproof boot with premium leather and grippy rubber sole — reliable on rocky, wet trails.
Where to Stay
Big South Fork Lodge
The Scarlet A-Frame
Hampton Inn Caryville-I-75/Cove Lake-State Park
Royal Inn
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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Nearby Campground
BANDY CREEK
5.9 miles away · 145 sites
Overview Bandy Creek is a spacious and modern campground, situated in The Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area--a vast and scenic expanse of land that offers visitors countless recreational activities.Recreation Numerous trails snake through the Recreation Area, offering mountain biking, hiking and horseback riding for visitors. A swimming pool, along with on-site volleyball court, playgrounds and ball fields, make Bandy Creek an ideal spot for families. The main river of the Big Sou
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Virgin Falls, Big Laurel Falls, and the Caney Fork River are nearby attractions worth exploring.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, birds, and small mammals. Be cautious of snakes, especially during warmer months.
Cities near Double Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Other waterfalls named Double Falls
3 other waterfalls share this name across the U.S.
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