Great Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Great Falls
Great Falls is a stunning waterfall located within Rock Island State Park in Tennessee. It is formed by the Caney Fork River and is known for its unique cascading flow over a rocky gorge. The waterfall is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers.
The Setting
Great Falls sits at 689 feet within Rock Island, fed by the Collins River, in the foothills of Tennessee.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The trail to the Great Falls overlook is short and easy, making it accessible for most visitors. It features a well-maintained path with minimal elevation gain, leading to a scenic viewpoint of the waterfall.
What to Expect
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 Great Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $0.00
🏊 Is There Swimming at Great Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are the best times to visit, as the waterfall is typically more active due to seasonal rainfall.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Exercise caution near the water, as the rocks can be slippery and the currents are strong. Stay on designated trails and viewing areas.
Current Water Conditions
80 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
1.42 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 COLLINS RIVER NEAR MCMINNVILLE, TN (14 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
80 cfs
4/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
73 cfs
5/10Fri
Low
81 cfs
3/10Sat
Low
88 cfs
3/10Sun
Low
84 cfs
4/10Mon
Low
78 cfs
4/10Tue
Low
76 cfs
4/10Best window: Tomorrow — barely flowing flow, sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early February to mid April, 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 Doyle 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 112 feet in steep steps rather than one leap. The ground at the falls is roughly 691 feet above sea level.
Most of the action is upstream: the ground drops about 151 feet in the 500 feet above the pin and flattens beneath the falls. Facing north, the falls 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
- 691 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 112 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- North
- 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 north).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Great Falls is located within Rock Island State Park, which is approximately 80 miles southeast of Nashville, Tennessee. Visitors can access the falls by driving to the park and following signs to the designated viewing areas.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at Rock Island State Park near the Great Falls overlook and trailheads.
Elevation
689 feet above sea level
Coordinates
35.804790° N, -85.630257° W
Land Management
Managed by OTHS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit early in the morning or on weekdays to avoid crowds. Wear sturdy shoes if you plan to explore beyond the overlook, as the rocks near the water can be slippery.
Where to Stay
Hampton Inn Mcminnville, Tn
Gas fireplace, firepit, and cedar Adirondack chair
The Way Inn by OYO Spencer
Light And Bright Cabin Close To Pates Ford Marina
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
RAGLAND BOTTOM
13 miles away · 57 sites
Overview Ragland Bottom Campground is located on the shores of the scenic Center Hill Lake on central Tennessee's Highland Rim. The lake stretches 64 miles up the Caney Fork River, where visitors come to enjoy boating, fishing and water sports. The 415 miles of forested shoreline provide excellent hiking, hunting and camping opportunities. 2025 Events: The annual Halloween event will be held Saturday, October 25, 2025. Recreation Boating, waterskiing, canoeing and fishing are popular activities
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Twin Falls, Rock Island State Park hiking trails, and the Blue Hole swimming area.
Wildlife
The area is home to various bird species, fish, and small mammals. Visitors may also spot turtles and other aquatic life near the river.
Cities near Great Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
LiDAR
Other waterfalls named Great Falls
12 other waterfalls share this name across the U.S.
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