Tennessee Travel
There are lots of spectacular places to stop along the Natchez Trace Parkway. The Fall Hollow Waterfall, located near Hohenwald, Tennessee, is only one of the fabulous spots of heavenly beauty here on earth.
The Natchez Trace Parkway is a scenic two-lane highway that follows the historical old Natchez Trace trails and roads used by American Indians, explorers, and travelers for centuries.
The parkway stretches through 3 states (Tennessee, Alabama & Mississippi) and preserves important areas in American history, as well as preservation of the natural beauty. The highway is a 440 mile stretch between Nashville, TN and Natchez, MS. Not only is it a beautiful drive, but it has stopping areas that are perfect for picnics, hiking, taking photos, or simply breathing deep and enjoying nature.
Hohenwald, TN is also a great place to stop for gas, food, or even for the night, as you tour the Natchez Trace Parkway and discover the natural beauty of the South.
The Fall Hollow Waterfall
Located on the Natchez Trace Parkway
Photo of Fall Hollow Waterfall by Sylvestermouse from Observation Deck |
We opted to climb down the steep path to the bottom of the waterfall to experience the full adventure. It is a well worn trail created by natural stone "steps". However, I used the word "climb" because I don't want to mislead readers by referring to it as a walk, which evokes the image of straight, level ground. I did have to use my hands several times as I moved from one step down to the next step. Many times in our descent, I worried about slipping on the wet stone and preferred to find my footing on the surrounding grass and mud instead. The trail is narrow and drops off down the hillside. It would be easy to get injured if you are not careful. By the way, we also took Merlin, our Labrador Retriever, with us. He hopped those stone steps with the agility of a deer. I was extremely proud of him. Of course, he frequently had to stop to wait on me, as I was literally climbing down using my hands for support.
I snapped this photo of the path before we started our hike back up. This was the easiest part of the path to the waterfall |
It was necessary for me to stop a few times to catch my breath on the climbing hike down and also on my way back up. Be prepared to pace yourself. Don't try to hurry. Besides, stopping for a rest gives you time to look around at the surrounding vegetation, flowers, and streams.
Well, that does work well, as long as you don't look down the side of the drop-off!
I did not take water down the hill with me and I was fine. However, we were there in the spring. On a hotter day, I would have required water. Therefore, I recommend a lightweight shoulder strap water bottle for this trail.
Warning About Hiking to the Bottom of the Fall Hollow Waterfall
The photo on the right is a picture of the type of stone steps on the trail down to the bottom of the waterfall. As you can see, they have a slick surface, which is why I often opted for the grass or mud at the side. It would have been very easy to twist my ankle though.For those who have health or mobility issues, heed the posted warning sign and do not go on beyond the observation deck area that provides seating where you can easily see the waterfall.
If you have any concerns, fear of heights, are already fatigued, or unsure about climbing the hillside for any reason, allow wisdom to dictate and stick to the deck. You won't be disappointed by the view.
I do not recommend the path down to the waterfall for children or most pets.
For More Information on the Natchez Trace Parkway, visit Natchez Trace Parkway (U.S. National Park Service)
Recommended Equipment for the Waterfall Hike
This Fall Hollow Waterfall looks like a very scenic place to visit. It reminds me somewhat of the Issaqueena Falls in Sumter National Forest near where I once lived in western South Carolina. I love waterfalls.
ReplyDeleteWhat a gorgeous hike! Between my bad knees and my fear of heights, I'd need to stick to the observation deck, so I'm especially grateful to be able to see the sights along the trail through your eyes (and your camera's lens). The photos are wonderful!
ReplyDeleteWow! So gorgeous! Definitely a walk with a capital W!
ReplyDeleteBeautiful! I would love immersing myself in this lovely place. When you mentioned Hohenwald, I wondered if you stopped at the elephant sanctuary there. I've always wanted to visit. Thanks for sharing your experiences and photographs. Oh, Merlin. You are my kind of travel companion. Love that boy!
ReplyDeleteOh my this looks lovely, but I think with my issues with mobility I would be very happy to stay at the observation area and just breathe in the beauty around me. Climbing and descending are part of a life I had a few years ago. I know better now. Thank you for pointing out this lovely area.
ReplyDeleteI would love to see this and take the whole Natchez Trace Parkway scenic drive. I think I might pass on climbing down those steps. From what you've said, I'd find lots of other photo ops without that climb. I've never spent time in the South -- only passed through these states on the way somewhere else on business. I know it's beautiful country. Great review with all we need to know about the hike to the falls.
ReplyDeleteWhat a beautiful hike. The scenery is magnificent. The peacefulness of it alone is worth it. Wish my knees could do hikes like this, my goodness I miss even long walks! Thank goodness for bikes, that I can do. But on this hike lol.
ReplyDeleteAbsolutely gorgeous - and I feel prepared to take a hike on the Natchez Trace Parkway scenic drive. I love waterfalls, could watch them forever.
ReplyDeleteWow is that ever beautiful. I'll bet it's an outstanding experience to be standing around all that historic nature. And yep, I would NOT be able to do that path, but darn I would love to try it!
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