Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
4.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
500 ft
About Gentry Creek Falls
Gentry Creek Falls is a beautiful double-tiered waterfall located in the Cherokee National Forest in eastern Tennessee. It is a popular destination for hikers due to its scenic trail and serene surroundings.
The Setting
Gentry Creek Falls sits at 3,504 feet within Cherokee National Forest, in the mountains of Tennessee.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate hike follows Gentry Creek Falls (#51), a 4.5-mile out-and-back trail over n/a. Expect 500 feet of elevation gain with grades of N/A.
USFS Trail
GENTRY CREEK FALLS #51
Trail Class
Class 0
Surface
Avg Grade
USFS Segment
2.27 miTrail Description
The trail to Gentry Creek Falls follows Gentry Creek and crosses the creek multiple times, requiring hikers to navigate through shallow water. The path is surrounded by lush forest and offers a peaceful hiking experience. The waterfall itself features two tiers and is a rewarding sight at the end of the trail.
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 Gentry Creek Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Gentry Creek Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting Gentry Creek Falls, as the water flow is typically stronger, and the surrounding forest is lush and green.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited. Check with Cherokee National Forest for seasonal road closures.
Safety Information
Be cautious during creek crossings, as rocks can be slippery. Avoid visiting after heavy rain, as water levels may rise quickly. Always let someone know your hiking plans and carry a map or GPS device.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Damascus 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.
The ground through the falls loses about 221 feet in steep steps rather than one leap. The ground at the falls is roughly 3,508 feet above sea level.
Steep ground runs through the entire stretch: about 63 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the pin and 196 feet in the 500 feet below it. Facing northwest, the falls glow in afternoon and evening light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 3,508 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 221 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Northwest
- Glows in afternoon and evening light.
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
Gentry Creek Falls is located near Laurel Bloomery, Tennessee. The trailhead can be accessed via Gentry Creek Road, which may require driving on a gravel road. Visitors should check local conditions before traveling.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a small parking area near the trailhead, but space may be limited. Arrive early to secure a spot.
Elevation
3,504 feet above sea level
Coordinates
36.567619° N, -81.704837° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear waterproof or sturdy hiking shoes due to the creek crossings. Bring a towel or extra socks in case your feet get wet. Check weather conditions before your visit, as heavy rain can make the trail more challenging. Arrive early to avoid crowds and secure parking.
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With 4.5 miles and 500 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, Abingdon, VA
Rushing Stone Cottage
Comfort Suites Abingdon I-81
Charming 4 bedroom farmhouse with large backyard for entertaining
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
BACKBONE ROCK CAMPGROUND
6.4 miles away · 11 sites
Overview Backbone Rock Campground will open for the 2026 season on 4/27/26. The pavilion and vault toilets in the day-use area will open on 3/16/26. Backbone Rock is a small campground situated along the beautiful Beaverdam Creek at an elevation of 2,100 feet in northern Johnson County. This developed campground is popular with those visiting the nearby Backbone Rock, a tunnel originally blasted through the rock ridge for the railway. The creek side location with popular swim area and lush forest
Book on Recreation.govNearby Hot Springs
Hot springs near Bristol, Tennessee
Looking for a soak after your hike? Explore more hot springs near Bristol, Tennessee on SoakingSprings.
Explore Tennessee springsAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Other attractions in the Cherokee National Forest include Backbone Rock Recreation Area and Watauga Lake.
Wildlife
The area is home to various wildlife, including deer, birds, and small mammals. Be cautious of snakes near the creek.
Cities near Gentry Creek Falls
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