Are there fees or permits required for Hilliard Falls?

No, there are no fees required to visit Hilliard Falls.

Is swimming allowed at Hilliard Falls?

No, swimming is not allowed at Hilliard Falls.

LiDAR bare-earth terrain around Hilliard Falls near Pikeville, Tennessee, showing about 84 feet of drop, a long cascade, facing southwest

LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP

Live Conditions · 1 ft³/s · About average

Hilliard Falls

Q: Are dogs allowed at Hilliard Falls?

No, dogs are not allowed at Hilliard Falls.

Tennessee

By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026

LiDAR & 3D terrain

Difficulty

Moderate

Trail Length

2.0 miles

Trail Type

Out And Back

Elevation Gain

300 ft

About Hilliard Falls

Hilliard Falls is a picturesque waterfall located in Tennessee, known for its serene surroundings and natural beauty. It is a lesser-known destination, making it a peaceful spot for nature enthusiasts.

The Setting

Hilliard Falls sits at 1,939 feet along the Basses Creek, in the hills of Tennessee.

Nearby Falls Worth Visiting

Laurel Falls (80 ft) lies 7.4 miles to the south. Also nearby: Stinging Fork Falls (30 ft, 9.0 mi).

Laurel Falls Stinging Fork Falls

Trail & Hike Details

2.0 mi distance 300 ft climbed

The Approach

The moderate 2.0-mile out-and-back trail gains 300 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.

Trail Description

The trail to Hilliard Falls is a moderately challenging hike through forested terrain. It features some uneven paths and potential stream crossings, making sturdy footwear essential. The trail is not heavily trafficked, offering a quiet and immersive experience in nature.

What to Expect

Visitors can expect a peaceful hike through wooded areas leading to a scenic waterfall. The falls may vary in flow depending on recent rainfall, with spring and early summer typically offering the most impressive views.

Accessibility

The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.

Frequently Asked Questions

🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Hilliard Falls?

❌ Dogs are not allowed

Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?

🆖 No fees required

🏊 Is There Swimming at Hilliard Falls?

❌ Swimming is not allowed

When to Visit

spring summer fall

Spring and early summer are the best times to visit, as the waterfall is likely to have a stronger flow due to seasonal rainfall.

Seasonal Access

The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.

Safety Information

Be cautious of slippery rocks near the waterfall and stream crossings. Check weather conditions before your visit, as rain can make the trail more challenging. Cell service may be limited in the area.

Current Water Conditions

Updated about 3 hours ago Barely Flowing

1 ft³/s

Current discharge — how much water is flowing

About average for this time of year

Very Low Low Normal High Very High

1 1 6 78

Based on 14 years of record

2.36 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.

BASSES CREEK AT LAKE TANSI NR CROSSVILLE,TN

USGS 03538970

13.8 miles from waterfall

Drainage: 8 sq mi

Altitude: 1,789 ft

7-Day Flow Outlook

Based on the USGS gauge BASSES CREEK AT LAKE TANSI NR CROSSVILLE,TN (22 km away).

Moderate confidence

Barely Flowing right now

1 cfs

↓ Falling

Today

Barely Flowing

1 cfs

5/10

Tomorrow

Barely Flowing

1 cfs

5/10

Tue

Barely Flowing

1 cfs

5/10

Wed

Barely Flowing

1 cfs

5/10

Thu

Barely Flowing

2 cfs

3/10

Fri

Low

2 cfs

4/10

Sat

Low

1 cfs

4/10

Best window: Today — barely flowing flow, sunny (trip score 5/10).

Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid February to late March, peaking in December.

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 Pikeville 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.

Here the descent is spread out: 1-meter lidar measures about 84 feet of drop through Hilliard Falls, stretched along the creek rather than stacked in one wall. The brink sits at about 1,940 feet above sea level.

The ground changes about 25 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 65 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face southwest and glow in afternoon and evening light.

Aerial photo of the same ground around Hilliard Falls near Pikeville, Tennessee, for comparison with the lidar view

Aerial LiDAR bare earth

Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.

Ground elevation: 1,940 feet; Measured by 1-meter lidar
Drop at the falls: About 84 feet; Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
Faces: Southwest; Glows in afternoon and evening light.

Ground profile through the falls

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

Hilliard Falls is located in Tennessee, but specific directions to the trailhead or parking area are not widely documented. Visitors are advised to consult local maps or hiking resources for accurate directions.

Get Directions on Google Maps

Parking

Parking availability is unclear. Visitors should prepare for limited or informal parking options near the trailhead.

Elevation

1,939 feet above sea level

Coordinates

35.650624° N, -85.061067° W

Visitor Tips & Gear

Start your hike early to avoid potential crowds and ensure ample daylight for your return. Bring plenty of water and wear sturdy hiking shoes. Be prepared for muddy or slippery sections, especially after rain.

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With 2.0 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.