Waterfalls Near Cherohala Skyway: A Comprehensive Guide

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The Cherohala Skyway, a scenic 43-mile National Scenic Byway, is home to some of the most breathtaking waterfalls in the southeastern United States. This area boasts five notable waterfalls: Bald River Falls, Baby Falls, Conasauga Creek Falls, Fall Branch Falls, and Torino Falls. Each waterfall offers unique features and hiking experiences, ranging from easily accessible viewpoints to challenging trails. This guide provides detailed information on these waterfalls, their locations, accessibility, and hiking trails.

What Are the Top 5 Waterfalls Near Cherohala Skyway?

  1. Bald River Falls
  2. Height: 90-100 feet
  3. Location: Off Forest Service Road 210, 6.3 miles from the skyway

  4. Accessibility: Short hike from parking area (currently closed due to bridge replacement)

  5. Baby Falls

  6. Height: 10-15 feet
  7. Location: 0.33 miles up FS Road 210 from Bald River Falls parking area

  8. Accessibility: Easy 320-foot walk from parking area

  9. Conasauga Creek Falls

  10. Height: 30-40 feet
  11. Location: Off FS Road 341, accessed via CNF trail 170

  12. Accessibility: 1-mile round trip hike, moderate difficulty

  13. Fall Branch Falls

  14. Height: Not specified
  15. Location: 1.5 miles from Cherohala Skyway on CNF trail 87

  16. Accessibility: 2.6-mile round trip hike, moderate to difficult

  17. Torino Falls

  18. Height: Not specified
  19. Location: Off FS Road 210 and FS Trail 88
  20. Accessibility: 0.22-mile hike, easy to moderate

How Can You Access These Waterfalls?

waterfalls near cherohala skyway

Bald River Falls

  • Take Forest Service Road 210 (Tellico River Road) from Cherohala Skyway
  • Drive approximately 6.3 miles to the parking area
  • Short hike to the falls viewpoint

Note: As of 2023-2024, the road is closed due to bridge replacement.

Baby Falls

  • From Bald River Falls parking area, drive 0.33 miles up FS Road 210
  • Park in the left-side parking area
  • Walk 320 feet downstream to view the falls

Conasauga Creek Falls

  1. From Tellico Plains, drive south on TN-68 for 2.9 miles
  2. Turn right onto FS Road 341
  3. Follow signs to CNF trail 170
  4. Hike 1 mile round trip to the falls

Fall Branch Falls

  1. Take TN-165 E for 20.9 miles to the trailhead
  2. Hike CNF trail 87 for 1.5 miles (2.6 miles round trip)

Torino Falls

  1. From Tellico Plains, take Cherohala Skyway (Highway 165) for 8 miles
  2. Turn right onto FS Road 210
  3. Follow directions to FS Trail 88
  4. Hike 0.22 miles to the waterfall

What Are the Best Waterfall Hikes Near Cherohala Skyway?

Waterfall Trail Length Difficulty Estimated Time Seasonal Access
Bald River Falls Short Easy-Moderate Varies Year-round (currently closed)
Baby Falls 320 feet Easy <30 minutes Year-round
Conasauga Creek Falls 1 mile RT Moderate 1-2 hours Year-round
Fall Branch Falls 2.6 miles RT Moderate-Difficult 2-3 hours Year-round
Torino Falls 0.22 miles Easy-Moderate <30 minutes Year-round

Are There Any Guided Tours Available?

Currently, there are no specific guided tours mentioned for these waterfalls near Cherohala Skyway. However, the Ocoee Adventure Center offers various outdoor adventures, including waterfall hikes, though it doesn’t specify guided tours for these particular waterfalls.

For more detailed information and potential guided tours, it’s recommended to contact local tour operators or visitor centers in the area.

What Should Hikers Know Before Visiting These Waterfalls?

  1. Trail Conditions: Vary from easy walks to challenging hikes with steep sections.
  2. Seasonal Changes: While most falls are accessible year-round, weather conditions can affect trail safety.
  3. Closures: Check for any temporary closures, like the current Bald River Falls road closure.
  4. Preparation: Bring appropriate hiking gear, water, and snacks, especially for longer trails.
  5. Safety: Be cautious around wet rocks and steep areas, particularly at Fall Branch Falls.

How Can Visitors Maximize Their Waterfall Experience?

  1. Plan Ahead: Research each waterfall’s location and trail difficulty before visiting.
  2. Start Early: Begin hikes early to avoid crowds and have better lighting for photography.
  3. Respect Nature: Follow Leave No Trace principles to preserve the natural beauty.
  4. Capture Memories: Bring a camera to document your waterfall adventures.
  5. Explore Nearby: Consider visiting multiple falls in one trip, as some are close to each other.

By following this guide, visitors can fully appreciate the stunning waterfalls near Cherohala Skyway, each offering a unique glimpse into the natural beauty of the region. Whether you’re seeking an easy walk or a challenging hike, these waterfalls provide unforgettable experiences for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.

References:
1. 5 Hidden Gems to Explore on the Cherohala Skyway
2. Waterfalls – Tennessee Overhill
3. Cherohala Skyway and Bald River Falls Day Trip

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