Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
1.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
300 ft
About Middle Creek Falls
Middle Creek Falls is a peaceful, lesser-known cascade tucked into a shaded forest setting in Tennessee, offering a quiet escape from busier parks. The falls are an inviting destination for hikers who prefer a short, scenic outing through mature woods and mossy rock outcrops. Expect a tranquil atmosphere and plenty of photo opportunities without the crowds found at larger regional attractions. The water feature is most easily reached via a brief hike that rewards you with close-up views of the falls and surrounding riparian habitat. The approach is suitable for hikers comfortable with a moderate route—bring sturdy shoes for uneven footing and take your time to enjoy the forest canopy and the sound of flowing water.
The Setting
Middle Creek Falls sits at 741 feet along the Mountain Creek, in the foothills of Tennessee.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Falling Water Falls (110 ft) lies 7.0 miles to the northeast. Also nearby: Laurel Falls (80 ft, 5.3 mi).
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 1.5-mile out-and-back trail gains 300 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
Out-and-back, 1.5 miles total with approximately 300 feet of elevation gain. Difficulty: Moderate. Trail surface is natural dirt singletrack with some rocky and uneven sections and a few short, moderately steep pitches; the route is well-shaded by forest canopy. Hikers should wear sturdy footwear and be prepared for roots and rocks underfoot; return the same way.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a peaceful hike through a wooded area leading to a cascading waterfall. The falls are surrounded by lush greenery, making it a great spot for photography and relaxation. The area may be slippery near the falls, so caution is advised.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Middle Creek Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Middle Creek Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal times to visit, as the waterfall flow is typically strongest due to seasonal rainfall.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
The trail may be slippery, especially after rain. Visitors should wear appropriate footwear and exercise caution near the waterfall. Always stay on marked trails and be prepared for limited cell service.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge MOUNTAIN CREEK NEAR GLENDALE, TN (5 km away).
Today
Roaring
1 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Roaring
1 cfs
9/10Tue
Strong
1 cfs
10/10Wed
Strong
1 cfs
10/10Thu
Strong
1 cfs
10/10Fri
Strong
1 cfs
10/10Sat
Roaring
1 cfs
6/10Best window: Tue — strong flow, sunny (trip score 10/10).
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 Signal Mountain 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.
1-meter lidar measures about 140 feet of descent through Middle Creek Falls, a steep tiered drop rather than a single free fall. The brink sits at about 750 feet above sea level.
The whole reach is steep: about 139 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the falls and another 75 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face southwest and sit in full sun for most of the day, best photographed early or late.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 750 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 140 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Southwest
- Sunlit most of the day. Go early or late for softer light.
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
Middle Creek Falls is located near the town of Gatlinburg, Tennessee. Access typically involves driving through forested areas, and the trailhead may be reached via local roads. Specific directions should be confirmed before visiting.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is limited and may be located near the trailhead. Visitors should plan to arrive early, especially during peak seasons.
Elevation
741 feet above sea level
Coordinates
35.120106° N, -85.373537° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Arrive early to secure parking and avoid crowds. Bring plenty of water, wear sturdy hiking shoes, and check weather conditions before heading out. Cell service may be limited in the area.
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With 1.5 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.
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, Chattanooga-Lookout Mountain
The Hotel Chalet at The Choo Choo
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Chattanooga Downtown/South
Comfort Inn Chattanooga Downtown Southside
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
Chickamauga Battlefield Group Campground
14.6 miles away · 9 sites
Overview THIS IS NOT A PUBLIC CAMPGROUND. SCOUTS AND CIVIC ORGANIZATIONS ONLY. These sites are for overnight camping by organized non-profit (501c) youth groups (scouts, church youth groups) under adult supervision for the purpose of education of the historic resources of the battlefield. Due to limited space and facilities, camping for solely recreational purposes is not allowed. Groups must choose sites according to the size of their group. Recreation Hiking, biking, and horseback riding are p
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Gatlinburg, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and other nearby waterfalls and hiking trails.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Visitors should be aware of potential encounters with snakes or bears and follow safety guidelines.
Cities near Middle Creek Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
LiDAR
LiDAR
Other waterfalls named Middle Creek Falls
1 other waterfall shares this name across the U.S.
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