Piney Creek Falls
Tennessee • 95 ft
By Armen Suny · Last verified Mar 2026
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.4 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
350 ft
About Piney Creek Falls
Piney Creek Falls drops a dramatic 95-foot (29 m) plunge along Piney Creek in Fall Creek Falls State Park, a short drive from Spencer, Tennessee. The falls sit about a mile above Piney Creek’s confluence with Cane Creek and are framed by the park’s dense hardwood forest, making the overlook a peaceful spot for photos and picnics. The park manages access and visitor facilities, so the site is an easy stop while exploring the larger park. A well-marked trail leads to a high overlook that provides sweeping views of the falls and the gorge below. There is no developed trail to the base of Piney Creek Falls; reaching the foot of the waterfall requires a technical rappel or a rugged route up Piney Creek Gorge, so most visitors stick to the overlook and nearby viewpoints. The setting is especially atmospheric after rain when the creek runs full and the forest is lush.
The Setting
Piney Creek Falls sits at 1,493 feet along the Calfkiller River, in the foothills of Tennessee. The falls drop 95 feet.
Height: 95 feet
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Fall Creek Falls (256 ft) lies 1.7 miles to the east. Also nearby: Cane Creek Falls (85 ft, 2.0 mi).
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 2.4-mile out-and-back trail gains 350 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
Trail length: 2.4 miles round-trip, elevation gain: about 350 feet. Difficulty: moderate. Trail type: out-and-back. The route is a well-maintained park trail that climbs steadily to an overlook above Piney Creek Falls; sections can be slick after rain, so good footwear is recommended. The trail ends at the overlook—there is no maintained trail to the base of the falls, which can only be reached by rappel or a rugged hike up the Piney Creek Gorge.
What to Expect
The falls cascade 95 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 Piney Creek Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Piney Creek Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and fall are the best times to visit, as the waterfall flow is typically stronger, and the surrounding foliage is vibrant.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter.
Safety Information
Stay on the marked trail and avoid getting too close to the edge of the overlook, as the gorge is steep and can be dangerous. The trail may be slippery after rain, so exercise caution.
Current Water Conditions
Based on a USGS gauge 18.1 miles away
41 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 9 years of record
4.18 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 regional waterway. Conditions at the falls may differ, especially after local rain.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge CALFKILLER RIVER AT HWY 70 AT SPARTA, TN (29 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
41 cfs
4/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
41 cfs
5/10Wed
Low
45 cfs
3/10Thu
Moderate
70 cfs
4/10Fri
Moderate
62 cfs
4/10Sat
Moderate
46 cfs
4/10Sun
Moderate
44 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 early April, peaking in February.
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 Spencer hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Piney Creek Falls is located within Fall Creek Falls State Park in Tennessee. The trailhead can be accessed from the Piney Falls parking area, which is well-marked within the park.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a designated parking area near the trailhead for Piney Creek Falls. Parking is free but may fill up during peak seasons.
Elevation
1,493 feet above sea level
Coordinates
35.673123° N, -85.384137° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit early in the morning or on weekdays to avoid crowds. Wear sturdy shoes, as the trail can be slippery. Bring a camera to capture the stunning views.
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With 2.4 miles and 350 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
The Way Inn by OYO Spencer
Gas fireplace, firepit, and cedar Adirondack chair
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Crossville by IHG
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
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Fall Creek Falls, Cane Creek Falls, and the Fall Creek Falls State Park Nature Center are all nearby and worth visiting.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, birds, and small mammals. Keep an eye out for native flora and fauna along the trail.
Cities near Piney Creek Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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