Piney Falls

Piney Falls is an easy out-and-back hike in Tennessee's Piney Falls Designated State Natural Area, managed by the State Department of Conservation. The route is about 3.3 miles long, with a total elevation gain of 583 feet, and it starts and ends at roughly 1,477 feet, with the high point at 1,479 feet. The steepest stretch comes early, at about 0.12 miles in, with a grade of 22 percent. Spring and fall are the most comfortable times to go. Typical averages from a nearby weather station in Spring City show October highs around 71°F with lows near 45°F, and April is similar at about 71°F by day and 44°F at night. That station sits well below the falls, so temperatures on the trail run cooler. The hike takes about 1.5 hours. Twin Rocks Overlook Spur is about 1.4 miles away, and Soak Creek offers canoeing about 2.4 miles off. Duskin Branch Trail is about 3.3 miles away, and Shelter Cove Marina & Campground is about 7.7 miles away.