About Bald River Falls
Bald River Falls drops roughly 90 feet (sources range from 80 to 100) into the Tellico River, and the Forest Service road bridge puts you right beside it. It is in Cherokee National Forest near Tellico Plains, Tennessee, about an hour from the Gatlinburg side of the Smokies, and it is not in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Getting there
From Tellico Plains, follow Tennessee 165 for about 5 miles, then turn right onto Forest Road 210 (Tellico River Road) and pass the ranger station. The falls are about 6 miles upstream on the right. Parking is limited and weekends and holidays are busy, so a weekday visit is easier. There are no restrooms or drinking water. Fill up on gas and food in Tellico Plains.
At the falls
The bridge gives you the full drop from above. A short scramble down to the river brings you closer, but the rocks stay wet from the spray, so move slowly. The Bald River Trail follows the stream upstream for those who want a longer walk through the Bald River Gorge Wilderness; ask the ranger district for current trail conditions.
When to go
- Spring: The loudest and fullest, thanks to snowmelt.
- Summer: Lower flow but plenty of water, and cool air in the gorge.
- Fall: Color frames the falls, though the gorge is narrow.
- Winter: Ice on the rock face can be striking, but Forest Road 210 can close in bad weather.
Know before you go
Cherokee National Forest allows leashed dogs on trails, unlike the national park. Cell service is poor along the road, so download your map before you leave town. Black bears live here; store food in your vehicle.
Good to know
- How tall is Bald River Falls?
- Bald River Falls drops about 90 feet.
- Can you swim or climb at the falls?
- Please don’t climb on or around waterfalls. Wet rock and algae are extremely slick, and falls from waterfalls are a leading cause of death in the Smokies. Enjoy the view from the trail.
