Lower Piney Falls
Tennessee • 40 ft
By Armen Suny · Last verified Mar 2026
Photo Credits (1)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
300 ft
About Lower Piney Falls
Lower Piney Falls tumbles roughly 40 feet in a peaceful two-tiered cascade tucked into the woods of Piney Falls Designated State Natural Area. The falls sit downstream of Upper Piney Falls, and the combination of mossy rock, mature forest and the steady roar of the water makes for a refreshing, photogenic outing. Visitors often describe the spot as serene and secluded — an easy reward for those willing to hike in. The natural area carries the designation SCA and is managed by SDC, so while the setting feels wild, it is a protected parcel with marked access for day visitors. The trail out to the falls is a moderate 2.5-mile out-and-back that’s popular with local hikers; it’s a great half-day loop to experience both Lower and Upper Piney Falls and the surrounding forest without needing technical gear.
The Setting
Lower Piney Falls sits at 1,217 feet within Piney Falls Designated State Natural Area, fed by the Sewee Creek, in the foothills of Tennessee. The falls drop 40 feet.
Height: 40 feet
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Upper Piney Falls (80 ft) lies 0.2 miles to the northeast. Also nearby: Laurel Falls (80 ft, 6.6 mi) and Stinging Fork Falls (30 ft, 3.5 mi).
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 Lower Piney Falls is a 2.5-mile out-and-back route with about 300 feet of elevation gain and is rated moderate. The path is well marked and travels through dense, mixed forest with stretches of flat walking punctuated by moderate inclines. Expect natural surface conditions — dirt, roots and rocky sections — and some uneven footing near the falls where stone and roots can be slick; hikers should wear sturdy shoes and use caution around wet areas. The route provides intermittent views of Upper Piney Falls upstream and culminates at the picturesque 40-foot Lower Piney Falls; no USFS trail number is associated with this state natural area trail.
What to Expect
The falls drop 40 feet. 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 Lower Piney Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Lower Piney Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal times to visit, as the waterfall flow is typically strongest after seasonal rains. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while winter provides a quieter experience with potential ice formations around the falls.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter.
Safety Information
The trail can be slippery, especially near the waterfall and after rain. Exercise caution on rocky sections and stay on marked paths. Watch for ticks and other insects during warmer months.
Current Water Conditions
35 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 75 years of record
0.26 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 SEWEE CREEK NEAR DECATUR, TN (20 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
35 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Low
43 cfs
3/10Fri
Low
44 cfs
3/10Sat
Low
46 cfs
3/10Sun
Low
42 cfs
3/10Mon
Low
40 cfs
3/10Tue
Low
40 cfs
3/10Best window: Today — 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 Spring City hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Lower Piney Falls is located in the Piney Falls State Natural Area near Grandview, Tennessee. The trailhead can be accessed via Firetower Road, and signage is available to guide visitors to the parking area.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a small parking area near the trailhead, but it may fill up quickly during peak seasons. Parking is free.
Elevation
1,217 feet above sea level
Coordinates
35.728771° N, -84.865482° W
Land Management
Managed by SDC
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy hiking shoes with good traction, as the trail can be rocky and slippery near the waterfall. Bring water and snacks, especially during warmer months. Arrive early to secure parking and avoid crowds.
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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. Icy conditions are common in winter — traction cleats are a smart addition.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
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
Grand Hotel
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Crossville by IHG
Comfort Inn Harriman
Comfort Suites Crossville
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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Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Upper Piney Falls, Ozone Falls, Cumberland Mountain State Park
Wildlife
The area is home to various bird species, small mammals, and native plants. Visitors may also encounter insects such as ticks and mosquitoes.
Cities near Lower Piney Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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