You may have heard of a little local favorite spot known as Foster Falls, but you may be wondering "How long is the hike to Foster Falls?". It is a fair question and don't worry we will certainly get to that. Today we wanted to highlight for you everything you should know about this wonderful little swimming hole and why it is considered to be one of the best waterfalls in Tennessee. So read on to learn more about the Foster Falls hike in Tennessee.

Nashville may be known for its honky-tonks and live music events, but just outside the city, you’ll find a natural wonderland that boasts rolling hills and waterfalls. Foster Falls is a quick 90-minute drive from the city and the hike to its base is both simple and accessible for most visitors. If you’re up for a quick drive and a solid hike, then a visit to Foster Falls in Tracy City, Tennessee may be just what you’re looking for.

Foster Falls is in South Cumberland State Park, a Tennessee-protected natural area found in the greater Tracy City and Sequatchie area. At just 90 minutes from the heart of Nashville, the waterfall hike remains one of the best natural escapes for city slickers. Right from the parking lot you can witness this mighty fall from the viewing area. Although you will only get a peek at the powerful falls the best way to experience it is with a trip down to the pool below.

The South Cumberland State Park is known for being one of the most wild and stunningly beautiful locations in the Volunteer State. The recreation area is located on the southern end of the Cumberland Plateau, and you’ll find plant life like azaleas and hemlocks as well as a smattering of local wildlife. We found the sheer rock walls and formations to be another glorious find along the trail too.

Foster Falls, of course, is one of the area’s main draws. The 60-foot waterfall plunges into a deep pool, and the blue of the water and bucolic greater area will make you feel like you’ve been transported to another world. This is a popular spot to go swimming and hang out by the water. You can expect to see plenty of people lounging around and splashing in the water when you go.

If you’re looking to hike to Foster Falls for yourself, then we would recommend the Foster Falls Climbers Loop Trail. At just under two miles long, the loop trail is great for kids and dogs kept on a leash. There is a moderate elevation gain of 337 feet along the entirety of the route.

As previously mentioned, the rock formations were one of our favorites when we hiked this trail. The path is steady but has some steep sections but if you take your time hikers of all skill levels should have no problem doing it. We even saw a woman who was in her late 70s trekking along the trail.

You know you are almost at the end of the trail when you arrive at one of the most exciting features of this hike; the suspension bridge. There is something so fun about a bouncy bridge in the middle of the wilderness and this one also takes you over a beautiful trickling stream. It is a great highlight of the trail and something that makes it stand apart from the rest.

Visitors rave about the scenic climb and the great views of the waterfalls. Make sure you bring the correct footwear as there are wet, rocky sections of the trail. You can visit the falls at any time of the year, though the trail is most recommended during the warmer months. Especially if you are looking to dip into the pool. No one really wants to plunge into the icy depths in the winter.

This waterfall is well worth multiple visits because it will look different every time you go.

Adventure awaits so what are you waiting for, hop in the car and make it to this stunning waterfall for a lovely weekend retreat.

What a beautiful place to visit! Make sure you visit our friends over at AllTrails to learn about the conditions before you go and wear the proper attire for a hike through the rocky wilderness of Tennessee. I didn't forget the original question either so to answer "How long is the hike to Foster Falls?" I would say the 1.7-mile trail should take a little over an hour. I would also account for extra time to sit and enjoy the view of the waterfall when you go. If you want to learn more about what this trail looks like please check out our trip when we went with this Adventuring in the Moment video:

Have you ever heard of Greeter Falls? It is a very similar hike and waterfall that serves as a popular swimming hole.