Between Chattanooga & Nashville Is A Hidden Natural Swimming Hole With A Scenic Waterfall

The eastern side of Tennessee has the good fortune of overlapping with many of Appalachia's most dramatic scenes, resulting in a premier collection of outdoor destinations that rival the music and culture of Nashville and Memphis. Here, Tennessee's impressive Appalachian Mountains protect a collection of river valleys, gorges, rock formations, and some of the loveliest waterfalls in the Eastern United States. One of the most visually striking (and interactive) of these falls is tucked away in a relatively new state park in the southeastern corner of the state. Located about two hours southeast of Nashville by car and a mere 40 minutes northwest of Chattanooga, the majestic Foster Falls is both a picturesque natural wonder and one of Tennessee's best natural swimming holes. 

Though not the tallest waterfall in Tennessee, Foster Falls forges an impressive, photogenic profile as it plunges down a tree-lined cliff in a lush woodland setting. The Foster Falls swimming hole likewise has a fabulous scenic backdrop for anyone who wants to take a dip after a day of hiking. Such gorgeous relaxation opportunities are likely needed, as Foster Falls sits along a spectacular network of trails covering the dramatic river gorges, mountains, and valleys of Tennessee's Cumberland Plateau region. Whether you're planning on relaxing in a natural swimming pool or just hoping to catch some impressive shots of an amazing waterfall scene, Foster Falls is a can't-miss stop on a sightseeing or adventure trip through Tennessee. 

Tennessee's Appalachian Mountains are far from being underrated among outdoor destinations. After all, the range's Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the nation's most-visited national park. When placed under Tennessee's temperate climate, these mountains often produce spectacular waterfalls. Foster Falls is about 60 feet high, much shorter than the 256-foot Fall Creek Falls. However, while the state-record-holding Fall Creek Falls is among Tennessee's best sites for first-time visitors, the distinctively scenic Foster Falls adds an interactive element to Tennessee's waterfall-rich mountains.

Foster Falls' 60 feet covers a sheer drop down a rocky cliff in a single, veil-like cascade. The waterfall empties into a natural blue pool that contrasts its white mists. Rounding out the scene's color pattern is the surrounding forest setting, which canvasses Foster Falls with mountain laurel, azaleas, hemlocks, and even some rare species of wildflowers. The natural pool below is often considered one of America's top scenic swimming holes. Visitors who take advantage of the swimming hole can enjoy amazing views of both the waterfall and the forest scenery around it. 

Both Foster Falls and its attached swimming hole are part of Tennessee's Fiery Gizzard State Park, located in the state's nature-rich Cumberland Plateau region. By some accounts, the Cumberland Plateau is the world's longest hardwood forested plateau, and one responsible for many of Tennessee's loveliest parks (including the subterranean treasures of Tennessee's new Cardwell Mountain State Archaeological Park). Dedicated in 2025, Fiery Gizzard State Park was once part of the much larger South Cumberland State Park. Though Foster Falls is not the state's tallest waterfall, it is the tallest in the entire South Cumberland region. 

Hikers making the trek to Foster Falls can find incredible views of the water from both an observation deck and a nearby suspension bridge about 75 yards from the falls and the swimming hole below. In addition to the waterfall and the natural pool, Foster Falls hikes also include delightful views of nearby cliffs, rock formations, and Fiery Gizzard's rich forests. 

The 13-mile Fiery Gizzard Trail is the main route to Foster Falls while exploring the rest of Fiery Gizzard State Park. However, your exact hiking route may vary depending on how you want to experience the falls. The Foster Falls Base Trail is a short but steep descent down to the base of the falls and its inviting swimming hole. The Climbers Loop Trail passes the Foster Falls scenic overlooks en route to the park's rock climbing area.

Foster Falls' swimming hole is perfect for cooling off after a hike. Technically one of four waterfall swimming holes in Fiery Gizzard, Foster Falls offers arguably the park's most scenic and serene swimming experience (though it can get somewhat crowded in the summer). The swimming area is conveniently accessible from a clearing on the other side of the suspension bridge, making it an easy stop on a Foster Falls sightseeing tour.