Dry Creek Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
300 ft
About Dry Creek Falls
Dry Creek Falls is a scenic waterfall located in Tennessee, known for its serene surroundings and natural beauty. The waterfall is part of the Dry Creek area, which features lush vegetation and a peaceful atmosphere.
The Setting
Dry Creek Falls sits at 889 feet along the Roaring River, in the foothills of Tennessee.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 2.5-mile out-and-back trail gains 300 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The trail to Dry Creek Falls is an out-and-back route that winds through a forested area with moderate elevation gain. The path may include rocky or uneven sections, so sturdy footwear is recommended.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a peaceful hike through a wooded area leading to a picturesque waterfall. The falls may have varying water flow depending on recent rainfall, with spring and early summer typically offering the best views.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Dry Creek Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Dry Creek Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting Dry Creek Falls, as the water flow is usually stronger during these seasons.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Visitors should be cautious of slippery rocks near the waterfall and stay on marked trails to avoid getting lost. Check weather conditions before visiting, as heavy rain can make the trail more challenging.
Current Water Conditions
12 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 7 years of record
11.07 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year.
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 ROARING RIVER NEAR HILHAM, TN (14 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
12 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
8 cfs
4/10Thu
Barely Flowing
8 cfs
5/10Fri
Low
8 cfs
3/10Sat
Low
8 cfs
4/10Sun
Low
8 cfs
4/10Mon
Low
7 cfs
4/10Best window: Today — barely flowing flow, sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early February to early March, 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 Dodson Branch 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 measures about 229 feet of descent through Dry Creek Falls, a steep tiered drop rather than a single free fall. The brink sits at about 890 feet above sea level.
The whole reach is steep: about 63 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the falls and another 77 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
- 890 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 229 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
Dry Creek Falls is located near the town of Monterey, Tennessee. Visitors can access the area via local roads, but specific directions should be confirmed before traveling.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability may vary depending on the trailhead used. Visitors should check local resources or recent reports for updated information.
Elevation
889 feet above sea level
Coordinates
36.266448° N, -85.551365° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Start your hike early to avoid crowds and ensure you have enough daylight for your return. Bring plenty of water and wear sturdy shoes, as the trail can be uneven in places.
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With 2.5 miles and 300 ft of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.
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.
TrailBuddy Trekking Poles
Lightweight aluminum, cork grips, and flip-locks that actually hold — a best-seller for good reason.
Where to Stay
Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Cookeville, TN
Best Western Thunderbird Motel
Wildwood Resort and Marina
Hampton Inn Cookeville
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.
Nearby Campground
ROARING RIVER PARK
9 miles away · 1 sites
Overview Roaring River Park is located on Cordell Hull Lake on the Cumberland River System, near Gainesboro, TN. The lake itself was named after one of America's outstanding statesmen and one of Tennessee's finest volunteers. Hull was born in a log cabin in the foothills of the Cumberland Mountains. Many people enjoy boating, fishing, swimming, hunting and hiking in this wonderful natural area. Click here for a virtual tour of the Cordell Hull Lake facilities.Recreation The 12,000-acre lake stret
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
The town of Monterey offers additional outdoor activities and local dining options.
Wildlife
The area is home to various bird species, small mammals, and native plants. Visitors should be cautious of ticks and other insects.
Cities near Dry Creek Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Other waterfalls named Dry Creek Falls
1 other waterfall shares this name across the U.S.
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