I Discovered a 3-Mile Waterfall Hike an Hour From Nashville That You Need To Do ASAP
Just an hour from Nashville, this moderate three-mile loop features three stunning waterfalls, abundant wildflowers in spring, and a fascinating 2,000-year-old Native American archaeological site. Image: Liza Graves
Just an hour east of Nashville, in Manchester, TN, is the loveliest three-mile waterfall hike found at Old Stone Fort State Archaeological Park. Not only will you encounter three different waterfalls, but you’ll also hike next to the Little Duck River, see an amazing display of wildflowers (especially in the spring), likely see wildlife, and be immersed in history.
The hike is moderate, but there are a few places where the path is steep. That said, the most impressive waterfalls are less than a 10-minute walk from the Visitor’s Center and relatively easy to get to.
PinTwo of the waterfalls are large, near the trail, and close to the trailhead. Image: Liza Graves
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PinWhile the wildflowers are abundant, with the leaves not fully out, you have a better view of the falls. Image: Liza Graves
I would arrive early, as that assures less crowds and an easier time finding a place to park. While there may be many people near the trailhead, there are far fewer people on the three-mile loop.
Before heading out on your hike, step into the Visitor’s Center and spend 10 to 15 minutes getting acquainted with the area’s history. Old Stone Fort is one of only two state archaeology parks in Tennessee. It’s widely thought that the area’s large stone wall was part of a Native American ceremonial site built almost 2,000 years ago.
You’ll also discover other ways the area has been used over the years as well, which will give you a nice sense of perspective — far beyond the beauty of the waterfalls — as you set out on your hiking journey.
I have been to this park three times: once in the fall, once in the summer, and once in the spring. The fall was gorgeous, as the trees were full of color. But the wildflowers present in April are absolutely breathtaking. I kept stopping to take photos of them all, as well as the blooming trees (dogwood and redbuds) and the blooming wild azaleas. This is a hike with a full tree canopy, so even when I hiked it in the heat of the summer, the temperature was reduced with all of the shade.
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PinThe trail has many rock formations along the way. Image: Liza GravesPinThe wildflowers are abundant! The red ones are called Fire Pinks, and the yellow ones are Ragworts. Image: Liza GravesPinSpiderworts are just some of the purple wildflowers you’ll come across on your hike. Image: Liza Graves
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PinWild azaleas, dogwood, and redbuds should all be in bloom in April. Image: Liza Graves
PinThis section of the Duck River is so tranquil and beautiful. We even saw river otters! Image: Liza Graves
But comparing seasons, spring is the absolute best time to go. Not only are the wildflowers so beautiful, but you can see two of the waterfalls through the trees that are otherwise obscured by leaves in the summer and fall.
During our hike, we also saw two river otters, a bald eagle, and evidence of beavers. Several people were fly fishing, which made us wish we had brought our rods.
PinThe ruins of the Stone Fort Paper Mill are fun to explore on the hike as well. Image: Liza GravesPinAgain, without summer’s full leaves, the views of the waterfalls are less obstructed. Image: Liza GravesPinYou must get a photo right here! We were “rucking,” so we were wearing weighted backpacks. Don’t let the hiking gear dissuade you into thinking this is a bigger hike than it actually is. Image: Liza Graves
This is an hour’s drive from Nashville, and it’s worth every minute in the car. Grab a friend or go solo. But go!
Check out Old Stone Fort State Archaeological Park’s website for more information and hours of operation.
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