How to Get to Burgess Falls Waterfalls on Center Hill Lake in Tennessee

Burgess Falls State Park on Center Hill Lake in Tennessee

State Park Address:

4000 Burgess Falls Dr

Sparta, Tennessee

Photographer: Rosemary Fields

Note: You can visit and see multiple waterfalls at the state park – or – paddle / boat to the bottom of the largest waterfall.

The park does not offer access to the bottom of the largest waterfall. You will have to get there by boat, jet ski, kayak, paddle board or canoe.

This is a very easy waterfall to navigate and get to. Drop your canoe or kayak in at the Cane Hollow Recreational Area. (See map) You can expect a roughly hour trip there and an hour back.

Hiking Trails

Burgess Falls State Park offers several hiking trails that showcase the park’s natural beauty and lead to different viewpoints of the waterfalls. The River Trail is an easy 1.5-mile trail that meanders along the Falling Water River, providing access to all four waterfalls. The Ridge Top Trail is a more challenging 1.5-mile trail that takes you to a scenic overlook of the river and surrounding landscape.

Picnicking and Wildlife

The park provides picnic areas where visitors can relax and enjoy a meal amidst the natural surroundings. There are also observation platforms that offer opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife viewing. The park is home to various bird species, including herons, hawks, and migratory birds.

Water levels do fluctuate, but typically, the spring and summer months offer higher levels. Worst case scenario, you have to bank and hike some of the way.

You may want to go during the week so there is less of a crowd. Holiday weekends are always packed.

In the area? Rock Island State Park is another place to see on Center Hill Lake. It’s on the south end and offers hiking, camping, fishing and even more glorious waterfalls! There’s also Fancher Falls if you’re up for another paddling trip.