Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.3 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Rutledge Falls
Rutledge Falls is a picturesque waterfall located near Tullahoma, Tennessee. It is known for its cascading flow over a wide rock ledge and is a popular spot for photography and relaxation. The falls are situated on private property but are open to the public with the landowner's permission.
The Setting
Rutledge Falls sits at 942 feet along the Duck River, in the foothills of Tennessee.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Rainbow Falls (80 ft) lies 4.3 miles to the north. Also nearby: Machine Falls (60 ft, 2.4 mi).
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The trail to Rutledge Falls is short and easy, with a well-worn path leading through a wooded area to the waterfall. The trail may have some uneven terrain, but it is generally accessible for most visitors.
What to Expect
Swimming is permitted. Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is short and relatively flat, but the surface may be uneven. Contact the managing agency for accessibility details.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Rutledge Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Rutledge Falls?
✅ Swimming is allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal times to visit when the water flow is typically strongest. Fall offers beautiful foliage, and the area is accessible year-round.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
The rocks around the falls can be slippery, so visitors should exercise caution when exploring near the water. Swimming is at your own risk, and there are no lifeguards on duty.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge DUCK RIVER BELOW MANCHESTER, TN (6 km away).
Today
Moderate
13 cfs
8/10Tomorrow
Moderate
13 cfs
9/10Fri
Moderate
16 cfs
6/10Sat
Strong
17 cfs
7/10Sun
Moderate
16 cfs
6/10Mon
Moderate
15 cfs
6/10Tue
Moderate
15 cfs
6/10Best window: Tomorrow — moderate flow, sunny (trip score 9/10).
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 Manchester 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 91 feet of drop through Rutledge Falls, stretched along the creek rather than stacked in one wall. The brink sits at about 940 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 77 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 35 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face south 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
- 940 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 91 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- South
- 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 south).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Rutledge Falls is located off Rutledge Falls Road, near Tullahoma, Tennessee. Visitors can park near the entrance to the property and follow a short trail to the falls.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Limited parking is available near the entrance to the property. Visitors should be respectful of private property and avoid blocking driveways or access roads.
Elevation
942 feet above sea level
Coordinates
35.422022° N, -86.137766° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy shoes as the trail may be uneven in places. Be respectful of the private property and follow any posted rules. Visit early in the day to avoid crowds, especially during weekends and summer months.
Where to Stay
Comfort Suites Manchester near Arnold AFB
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Manchester - Arnold AFB
Best Western Manchester
Holiday Inn Express - Tullahoma by IHG
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
Nearby attractions include Short Springs Natural Area and Machine Falls, both offering additional hiking and waterfall experiences.
Wildlife
The area is home to various bird species, small mammals, and aquatic life in the stream.
Cities near Rutledge Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
LiDAR
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