The wilderness of Tennessee is some of the most beautiful in the United States, and you can expect everything from wildflower-strewn meadows to craggy mountain peaks. On the south side of the state, you'll stumble across the little-known Prater Place and Hemlock Falls Trail in Tennessee, a dual trail that will lead you across streams and to a gorgeous waterfall. Be prepared for a solid few hours in the wilderness, and make sure you bring your camera. You will want to capture the beauty of the area! Not many folks know about the trail, and it remains one of the best hidden gems in the Volunteer State.

The Prater Place and Hemlock Falls Trail can be found in Fall Creek Falls State Park, the most popular state park in Tennessee. With over 29,000 acres, the stunning park is located along the upper Cane Creek Gorge and is best known for its waterfalls, lush foliage, and stunning rock formations.

You may have gone to this park before but chances are you didn't see this trail. It may get overshadowed by some of the biggest trails in the park but it shouldn't be overlooked. This trail can be a great addition to your time in one of the best state parks in Tennessee.

The trail itself is a little under six miles and takes just under three hours to complete. Visitors mostly use the trail for hiking, though it is also a prime spot for walking your dog (on a leash!) and birdwatching.

I don't know about you but there is little better than being fully immersed in the forest. It is the best when the peaceful quiet and chirping birds are the only sounds you hear. The birds sing a beautiful symphony in the Tennessee woods and this trail will give you plenty an earful to enjoy while you hike.

You will want to make sure you bring the proper footwear for your hike since you will be making your way over rocky portions of the trail as well as a few streams and creeks. Be prepared for boulders along the way, and bug spray is always encouraged. Especially in the warmer months when those mosquitos reemerge with a vengeance.

We shake our fists at you blood-sucking foes!

The Prater Place and Hemlock Falls Trail are considered one of the newest trails in the park, as the route was blazed after additional acreage was provided to the park. Since Fall Creek Falls State Park is sluiced through with waterways, there will most likely be muddy sections as you climb in elevation. Just be careful and maybe bring an extra towel.

The Hemlock Falls trailhead is technically found outside of the park but after stepping onto the trail you will be entering the park and find yourself deep within Fall Creek Falls territory. One of the highlights of the trail is Hemlock Falls itself. This beautiful cascade may not be as big as the other epic waterfalls in the state park, but you may have it all to yourself.

The trail is well-maintained and marked, though there are a few challenging sections that quickly increase in elevation. Wildflowers bloom during the spring, and the waterfall at the end of the trail is gushing throughout the year.

Have you ever hiked the Prater Place and Hemlock Falls in Tennessee? Will you be adding it to your list? Keep your eyes peeled for rock formations along the route, and if you come across a cave keep your wits about you. You don’t want to disturb wildlife, but it is neat to see the beauty of Tennessee’s hidden natural spaces.

What a great place to go hiking! Have you been before? We would suggest adding this hike to your trip to this wonderful state park. One must-have tool I use on every hike I go on is the AllTrails app, so make sure to download the map for Prater Place and Hemlock Falls Trail to keep track of where you are on the trail. While you are in Fall Creek Falls State Park, make your trip complete by taking the trail to the base of Fall Creek Falls, there is nothing better than standing at the foot of the biggest waterfall in Tennessee.

Need a place to stay? Book a night at this Wooded Retreat Cabin and enjoy a grand Fall Creek Falls State Park adventure.