Little Falls

Burgess Falls State Park, Putnam, Tennessee

Description

This waterfall (really a cascade) is located in the lovely Burgess Falls State Park.  The park contains 4 separate waterfalls all within one mile of the parking area - Falling Water Cascades (20'), Little Falls (30'), Middle Falls (80'), and the namesake Burgess Falls (136').

So really you don't come here to see the first two waterfalls.  It's a freebie in the waterfall world.

From the trail the waterfall is somewhat obscured by trees.  I didn't have time to explore but there may be a better viewpoint near the edge of the water.

The waterfall is on an honest-to-goodness river so all of the falls are fairly impressive at least in volume and breadth if not in height.

Getting There

Burgess Falls State Park is located in middle Tennessee near the city of Cookeville.  Directions can be obtained from the state park website or you can get personalized directions from Mapquest.

Hike Details

Little Falls is located only a few hundred feet down the trail to Burgess Falls.  You can still see the remnants of an old swinging bridge just below the falls.

Photo Tips

I had high contrast conditions when I was there since it was midday and sunny, not exactly ideal photography conditions.  I took the picture above from the overlook.  There may be a better view if you bushwhack down to the riverside but you go at your own risk.

As with any of the waterfalls in Burgess Falls State Park the river is very broad and open so sun is a constant problem except very early or late.

You will also want to use a polarizer to cut down on reflections.

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