Few natural features capture the magic of the Southern Appalachians quite like waterfalls. Whether they’re thundering cascades plunging into deep pools or delicate veils spilling over mossy ledges, waterfalls along and near the Benton MacKaye Trail (BMT) reward hikers with cool mist, soothing soundscapes, and unforgettable views.
This month, we’re highlighting some of the best waterfalls you can experience both directly on the BMT and within a short detour from it.
Waterfalls Along the BMT
Long Creek Falls (Georgia)
Location on the BMT: Mile 7.3, just north of the Three Forks area where the BMT, Appalachian Trail, and Duncan Ridge Trail converge.
One of the most beloved waterfalls in Georgia, Long Creek Falls sits just a short walk off the BMT. The 50-foot cascade tumbles in a wide, two-tiered drop, surrounded by towering hemlocks and rhododendrons. It’s a classic first-day destination for many hikers beginning their BMT journey, and the soothing roar makes it an ideal spot for rest or a picnic. Link to more info on Long Creek Falls
Fall Branch Falls (Georgia)
Location on the BMT: Mile 11.5, accessible via a short side trail to the falls. Fall Branch Falls is a short .5 mile hike from the Fall Branch Falls Trailhead – a gem that proves beauty doesn’t always require a strenuous hike. The side trail leads to a series of drops totaling around 60 feet, framed by lush hardwoods. The accessibility of Fall Branch Falls makes it a family favorite, and springtime wildflowers add even more charm to this stop. Link to more info on Fall Branch Falls
Upper Chasteen Cascade (Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee/North Carolina)
Location on the BMT: Near the Smokemont area, accessible via the Chasteen Creek Trail spur from the BMT.
High in the Smokies, the BMT offers access to one of its most scenic waterfalls: Upper Chasteen Cascade. The waters of Chasteen Creek slide down a mossy rock face in shimmering curtains, creating a tranquil scene deep in the park’s backcountry. While less visited than the park’s more famous waterfalls, this secluded cascade rewards those who venture into the quieter corners of the Smokies. Link to more info on Upper Chasteen Cascade
Waterfalls Within a Short Distance of the BMT
Shadow Falls (Georgia)
Location relative to the BMT:
Shadow Falls is a well-hidden jewel. This is a 20‑foot cascading waterfall tucked into the heart of the Cohutta Mountains and fed by the South Fork of the Jacks River. Though modest in size, it captivates with its sliding, moss‑framed drop into a shallow pool—especially splendid after rain when the surrounding hardwood forest shimmers and the air feels cool with pine and cedar scents. From Dyer Gap, go north on BMT 0.7 of a mile to the South Fork Trail (SFT). Falls are 0.3 of a mile south on SFT. Link to more info on Shadow Falls
Turtletown Falls (Tennessee)
Location relative to the BMT: Roughly 6 miles east of the BMT near the Ocoee Ranger District (accessible via Hwy 68).
A moderate hike of about 3.5 miles (loop) in the Cherokee National Forest leads to the twin cascades of Turtletown Falls. The Upper and Lower Falls, dropping 20–30 feet each, are tucked into a lush gorge and reward hikers with spectacular views of rushing water surrounded by hardwood forest. This makes for a perfect half-day trip for BMT hikers looking to mix in a scenic detour. Link to more info on Turtletown Falls
Jack’s River Falls (Georgia, Cohutta Wilderness)
Location relative to the BMT: About 9 miles Northwest of the BMT’s Dally Gap trailhead, accessible via Penitentiary Branch Trail and the Jack’s River Trail in the Cohutta Wilderness. Also accessible more directly via Beech Bottom link to directions here.
A true backcountry destination, Jack’s River Falls is one of the crown jewels of the Cohutta Wilderness. The Jack’s River plunges over a 60-foot rock ledge into a wide pool that invites weary hikers to take a refreshing swim. Reaching the falls requires multiple river crossings, so hikers should be prepared—but the reward is a dramatic wilderness waterfall few forget.
Final Thoughts
The Benton MacKaye Trail isn’t just a long-distance footpath—it’s a gateway to some of the most beautiful waterfalls in the Southern Appalachians. Whether you stick to the trail itself and enjoy Long Creek Falls, Fall Branch Falls, or the Upper Chasteen Cascade, or venture just a bit farther to marvel at Upper Bald River Falls, Turtletown Falls or Jack’s River Falls, you’ll find that chasing waterfalls is an essential part of the BMT experience.
So lace up your boots and/or water shoes, pack your camera, bring your Ten Essentials and let the waterfalls of the BMT inspire your next adventure.
