Machine Falls
Tennessee • 60 ft
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
1.6 miles
Trail Type
Loop
Elevation Gain
200 ft
About Machine Falls
Machine Falls tumbles about 60 feet over a broad rock face inside the Short Springs Designated State Natural Area, a scenic preserve near Tullahoma, Tennessee. Nestled in a lush, forested hollow, the falls form a photogenic cascade that draws hikers, photographers, and families seeking a relatively accessible woodland outing. The site is part of the Short Springs unit (designation: SCA), owned by SDC and managed by a nonprofit NGO, which helps protect the area's diverse plant life and limestone bluffs. The setting feels intimate and restorative: mossy ledges and spring-fed streams frame the cascade, and trails through mixed hardwoods offer seasonal color in spring and fall. With a modest hike to reach the overlook and base of the falls, Machine Falls is a rewarding destination for those looking for a short day trip into nature without a strenuous climb.
The Setting
Machine Falls sits at 886 feet within Short Springs Designated State Natural Area, in the foothills of Tennessee. The falls drop 60 feet.
Height: 60 feet
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 1.6-mile loop trail gains 200 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The loop trail to Machine Falls is approximately 1.6 miles round-trip with about 200 feet of elevation gain and is rated moderate. Expect natural tread with rocky and uneven sections; the route includes a relatively steep descent into the hollow as you approach the base of the falls. The path is a loop type and is generally well-marked, offering a mix of gradual grades and short steeper pitches—suitable for most hikers who are comfortable on uneven surfaces. Allow time for stops at the overlook and for photos at the water’s edge.
What to Expect
The falls drop 60 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 Machine Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Machine Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and fall are the best times to visit Machine Falls, as the weather is mild, and the water flow is typically stronger. Summer is also popular, but the trail can be more crowded.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
The trail can be slippery, especially near the falls. Use caution on rocky and uneven sections. Watch for ticks and other insects, and stay on marked trails to avoid getting lost.
Current Water Conditions
These readings come from the USGS gauge on Duck River, 5.2 miles away, not on Machine Falls's own stream. Use them as a sign of whether the area is running wet or dry.
21 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 78 years of record
-0.10 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 DUCK RIVER BELOW MANCHESTER, TN (8 km away).
Today
Moderate
21 cfs
8/10Tomorrow
Moderate
21 cfs
8/10Tue
Moderate
21 cfs
8/10Wed
Moderate
22 cfs
8/10Thu
Moderate
24 cfs
8/10Fri
Moderate
24 cfs
8/10Sat
Moderate
26 cfs
8/10Best window: Today — moderate flow, widespread frost then sunny (trip score 8/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early February to late March, 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 Tullahoma hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Is Machine Falls Frozen?
Updated about 17 hours agoNot frozen highs above freezing lately
Machine Falls is not frozen right now; highs have been above freezing. Yesterday ran 44°F to 35°F.
- Days below freezing
- 0 of the last 14
- Current cold streak
- 0 days
- Freezing days ahead
- 0 of the next 7
- Flow
- 21 ft³/s
Winter safety. Frozen falls are the one waterfall trip with a documented injury pattern: falling ice, and ice-glazed rock and trail. Wear microspikes, keep well back from the base and from overhangs, and never walk out on ice over moving water.
Estimate from Open-Meteo daily temperatures at the falls, the LiDAR-measured facing direction, and the nearest stream gauge. It is a likelihood, not a report from the trail.
Weather Forecast
The Terrain Around Machine Falls
High-resolution lidar hasn't been flown here yet, so this is the aerial view of the ground around the falls. Open the 3D view to tilt and spin the landscape.
The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Machine Falls is located in the Short Springs Natural Area, approximately 10 minutes from Tullahoma, Tennessee. The trailhead can be accessed from the parking lot at 2250 Short Springs Road.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
A small parking lot is available at the trailhead, but it can fill up quickly during peak times. Arrive early to secure a spot.
Elevation
886 feet above sea level
Coordinates
35.412856° N, -86.179156° W
Land Management
Managed by NGO
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy hiking shoes with good traction, as the trail can be rocky and slippery near the falls. Bring water and snacks, especially during warmer months. Arrive early to avoid crowds and secure parking. Be prepared for a steep descent and ascent near the falls.
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With 1.6 miles and 200 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
LivSmart Studios By Hilton Tullahoma
Holiday Inn Express - Tullahoma by IHG
Comfort Suites Manchester near Arnold AFB
TownePlace Suites by Marriott Tullahoma
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
Other attractions in the area include Rutledge Falls, Old Stone Fort State Archaeological Park, and Tims Ford State Park.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Visitors may also encounter insects such as ticks and mosquitoes.
Cities near Machine Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Aerial
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