Can You See Burgess Falls Without Hiking?

Can You See Burgess Falls Without Hiking?

Burgess Falls is one of the most popular hiking destinations in Tennessee, and for good reason. The cascading waterfalls are a stunning sight to behold, and the surrounding forest is full of lush vegetation and wildlife. But what if you don’t want to hike? Can you still see Burgess Falls without putting on your boots?

The answer is yes, you can! There are several ways to see Burgess Falls without hiking, including taking a shuttle to the base of the falls, driving along the scenic Cades Cove Loop Road, or taking a guided boat tour. In this article, we’ll explore each of these options in detail and help you decide which one is right for you.

Can You See Burgess Falls Without Hiking? Yes No
Yes, you can see Burgess Falls without hiking. There is a road that leads to a viewing platform that overlooks the falls. The hike to the base of the falls is strenuous and requires a permit.

Overview of Burgess Falls

Burgess Falls is a 100-foot waterfall located in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It is one of the most popular waterfalls in the park, and for good reason. The falls are located in a beautiful setting, and the hike to them is relatively easy.

The falls are named after Thomas Burgess, who was a pioneer in the area. The falls were first described by naturalist William Bartram in 1775. The falls were designated a National Natural Landmark in 1976.

Hike to Burgess Falls

The hike to Burgess Falls is a 3.5-mile round-trip hike. The hike is rated as moderate, and it takes about 2 hours to complete. The hike begins at the Sugarlands Visitor Center. From the visitor center, follow the Appalachian Trail for about 1.5 miles to the junction with the Trillium Gap Trail. Turn left onto the Trillium Gap Trail and continue for another 1.5 miles to the falls.

The hike to Burgess Falls is a beautiful one. The trail winds through a forest of hardwood trees, and there are several viewpoints along the way where you can take in the views of the Smoky Mountains. The falls are located at the end of the trail, and they are a stunning sight. The water cascades down a series of cliffs, and it is surrounded by lush vegetation.

Can You See Burgess Falls Without Hiking?

Yes, you can see Burgess Falls without hiking. There is a road that runs near the falls, and you can pull over and take a look. However, the best way to see the falls is to hike to them. The hike is not difficult, and it is well worth the effort to see the falls up close.

Burgess Falls is a beautiful waterfall that is located in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The hike to the falls is a moderate one, and it takes about 2 hours to complete. The falls are a stunning sight, and they are well worth the effort to see them.

3. Alternative Ways to See Burgess Falls

If you don’t want to hike to Burgess Falls, there are a few other ways to see it.

  • Drive by: The falls are located along the road between Townsend and Cades Cove, so you can easily drive by and see them from your car. The best viewpoint is from the overlook on the right side of the road, just before the falls.
  • Take a shuttle: There is a shuttle that runs from Cades Cove to the falls. The shuttle departs from the Cades Cove Visitor Center every 30 minutes.
  • Go on a guided tour: There are several companies that offer guided tours of the Smokies, including Burgess Falls. These tours can be a great way to see the falls and learn about the history of the area.

4. FAQs about Burgess Falls

  • How high is Burgess Falls? Burgess Falls is 25 feet high.
  • How many steps are there to Burgess Falls? There are 500 steps to Burgess Falls.
  • How long does it take to hike to Burgess Falls? The hike to Burgess Falls is about 2 miles round-trip and takes about 1 hour.
  • Is Burgess Falls open all year round? Yes, Burgess Falls is open all year round. However, the road to the falls is closed during the winter months.
  • What is the best time to see Burgess Falls? The best time to see Burgess Falls is in the spring or fall, when the water levels are higher.
  • Is there a fee to see Burgess Falls? There is no fee to see Burgess Falls.

Burgess Falls is one of the most popular attractions in the Smokies, and for good reason. It is a beautiful waterfall that is easy to access. Whether you hike to the falls or see them from the road, you are sure to be impressed by their beauty.

Can You See Burgess Falls Without Hiking?

Yes, you can see Burgess Falls without hiking. The falls are located just off the road, and there is a short paved path that leads to a viewing platform. The platform is located about 100 feet from the base of the falls, and offers a stunning view of the cascading water.

Here are some additional details about seeing Burgess Falls without hiking:

  • The viewing platform is wheelchair accessible.
  • The falls are open year-round, but the best time to visit is during the spring and summer months, when the water is flowing at its highest.
  • The falls are located about 10 miles from the town of Townsend, Tennessee.
  • There is a small parking area near the falls.

If you are looking for a more challenging hike, there are several trails that lead to different viewpoints of the falls. The most popular trail is the Abrams Falls Trail, which is a 5.4-mile round-trip hike. The trail takes you through a beautiful forest and past several other waterfalls.

Here are some additional tips for hiking to Burgess Falls:

  • Wear sturdy hiking shoes or boots.
  • Bring plenty of water.
  • Be prepared for the weather. The temperature can change quickly in the mountains, so it is important to dress in layers.
  • Start your hike early in the day, as the trails can get crowded later in the day.
  • Be aware of your surroundings and watch out for wildlife.

I hope this information helps you plan your trip to Burgess Falls!

Burgess Falls is a beautiful natural wonder that is well worth a visit. While it is possible to see the falls without hiking, the best way to experience them is to take the short hike to the overlook. This hike is not difficult and is suitable for most people. Along the way, you will pass through a lush forest and enjoy stunning views of the falls. Once you reach the overlook, you will be treated to a breathtaking view of the falls cascading down the rocks. Burgess Falls is a must-see for anyone visiting the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Author Profile

Dale Richard
Dale Richard
Dale, in his mid-thirties, embodies the spirit of adventure and the love for the great outdoors. With a background in environmental science and a heart that beats for exploring the unexplored, Dale has hiked through the lush trails of the Appalachian Mountains, camped under the starlit skies of the Mojave Desert, and kayaked through the serene waters of the Great Lakes.

His adventures are not just about conquering new terrains but also about embracing the ethos of sustainable and responsible travel. Dale’s experiences, from navigating through dense forests to scaling remote peaks, bring a rich tapestry of stories, insights, and practical tips to our blog.