Hikes in the Cherokee National Forest, straddling the border of North Carolina and Tennessee, offer boocoos of lush terrain. And one stand out that continues to hold my attention is Margarette Falls in Greeneville. Fern-lined paths, rocky terrain, and cascades that follow you up to the limestone wall that encompasses the grand Margarette Falls themselves.
If you are planning a day hike from Asheville or a nearby city in Tennessee, here’s what to expect on the Margarette Falls Trail—and what you’ll want to wear to feel comfortable along the way.
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Margarette Falls Trail Overview
The Margarette Falls Trail is a moderate out-and-back hike, just under 3 miles roundtrip, with an elevation gain of about 600 feet. It’s short enough to be beginner-friendly but has enough rocky scrambles and stream crossings to keep things interesting.
The payoff at the end is worth it: a dramatic 60-foot fan-shaped waterfall that tumbles down a limestone cliff, creating a cool misty pocket that gives all the spa vibes.
And if you’re super adventurous, you can scramble past Margarette Falls and uncover some hidden falls that are perfect for a summer’s day hike. But shhh, that’s our secret.
Trailhead: Near the end of Shelton Mission Road (Greeneville, TN). See the route on AllTrails.
Distance: ~2.7 miles roundtrip
Difficulty: Moderate
Highlights: Stream crossings, wooden bridges, lush ferns and rhododendron, 60-ft waterfall finale
What to Expect on the Trail
Before you lace up your boots and head out, here’s a bit more about what you can expect on the trail.
Lush forest views: You’ll walk through a shaded, fern-filled forest with Rhododendrons line much of the trail, making it especially beautiful when they bloom in late spring.
Rocky terrain: Parts of the trail require scrambling over rocks and navigating uneven paths. Good shoes are a must (more on that below). Poles will be handy.
Stream crossings: You’ll hop across streams a couple of times. In drier months, they’re easy to cross, but after heavy rain, expect higher water levels and slick rocks.
Reaching the falls: Margarette Falls is a beaut. The fan-shaped drop makes it one of the more unique waterfalls in the Cherokee National Forest. Plan to linger here a while—it’s a great spot for photos, a picnic snack, and a swim in the summer months. Remember you can scramble up on a hill to get above the falls, too.
What to Wear & Bring for Cherokee National Forest Hikes
Sturdy hiking boots: Waterproof boots or trail shoes with good traction are ideal, especially with the wet rocks and stream crossings.
Day pack essentials: Bring water, snacks, a lightweight towel if you plan to swim, and maybe trekking poles if you like extra stability.
Light layers in shoulder season: The trail is shaded, but the mist near the falls can be cool. A breathable shirt (I love sun hoodies for hikes) with a light jacket or pullover might be a good choice.
Extras: Sunscreen, a cap, etc—whatever you like! Even in the forest, those Tennessee summer bugs can be relentless, so you might to bring some natural bug repellent.
Tips for Your Hike
Parking: There is a small parking lot at the base of the trailhead off Shelton Mission Road. It’s free to park!
Check weather conditions: Heavy rains can make the trail a lot more slick, especially the moss-covered rocks along the stream crossing.
Leave no trace: The forest and waterfall area are delicate—pack out everything you bring in. Leave bugs and mushrooms alone.
Combine with nearby stops: Greeneville is a charming town with historic sites and local eateries worth checking out after your hike. I recommend Catalyst Coffee Company for a coffee and pastry before or after your trek. There’s also a taproom in Greeneville and other unique things to do.
Final Thoughts
Margarette Falls is one of those hikes that’s short but packs in everything I love—lush greenery, a bit of adventure, and a big reward at the end. Whether you’re visiting from Asheville, Johnson City, or Knoxville, it makes a perfect half-day escape into nature.
