Virgin Falls

One of my 2014 goals was to hike to Virgin Falls near Sparta, Tennessee. In case you missed this blog post from January 2014, here it is again.

While I didn't accomplish this goal in 2014, I did make it in January 2015 and share below a few glimpses of Virgin Falls as well as other beautiful sites along the trail.  

Virgin Falls is formed by an underground stream that emerges from a cave and then drops over a 110-foot high cliff. 

Here is more information on the Virgin Falls State Natural Area along with directions to the trailhead.  This area is part of Tennessee's Cumberland Plateau. 

The area is noted for its unique geological features and several other waterfalls. 

Big Branch Falls

The hike into Virgin Falls totals around 9 miles (in and out) and is considered a strenuous hike.  The trail descends around 900 feet in elevation and has many rocky areas with uneven footing. 

There is a cable to provide assistance at the only difficult stream crossing. 

Big Laurel Falls 

Top of Virgin Falls 

Side view of Virgin Falls. 

Winter or early Spring is the ideal time for a hike to Virgin Falls.  Be sure to allow plenty of time to see all of the fascinating geological formations along the way as well as explore the trail to the top of the Falls. 

Hope you enjoyed my hike to Virgin Falls and you have plans in 2015 to "Keep on Hiking."