fall {creek falls}

As mentioned back here, my mom and I took a weekend excursion to Fall Creek Falls State Park.  When mom asked what I'd like to do for my birthday this past summer, I mentioned my desire to take a trip with just her.  She immediately shared that she'd love to go see a waterfall.  Living in Nashville the past couple of years, I'd heard several friends rave about the breathtaking falls out in East TN.  The great thing about this particular state park is that it is big.  I mean, really big.  Covering more than 20,000 acres, you can experience those beautiful moments of feeling like you're out in the middle of nowhere.  You know, without being actually out in the middle of nowhere!  Not only do they offer primitive camping, they also have cabin rentals, as well as room rentals in their guest inn.  We opted for the hotel accommodations!  We checked out a handful of their amenities, including onsite dining (who doesn't love a good all-you-can-eat buffet?), paddle boat rentals, game room access and hiking trails.  But they also have fishing, biking trails, horseback riding, boat rentals, swimming, golfing, special events and much more. 

Well, we didn't come that far not to see a waterfall, so we journeyed down the 256 foot trail to the base of Fall Creek Falls.  This namesake boasts to be the highest waterfall in the eastern US.  It was slow and steady hiking due to the fairly steep and rocky grade.  And boy was the trek worth it. We just had to remind ourselves of that as we puffed back up the trail!  If you prefer a more level hike, there are several other falls within the park, including Piney and Cane Creek Falls.  

So if you are around these parts looking for a refreshing getaway, check out Fall Creek Falls.  After all, Southern Living magazine readers voted it the best state park in the southeast!