Silver Falls
Tuckaleechee Caverns
Townsend, Tennessee
Silver Falls is a breathtaking natural wonder nestled within Tuckaleechee Caverns in Townsend, Tennessee. Plunging 210 feet in a two-tier cascade, it holds the distinction of being the tallest subterranean waterfall in the eastern United States. The waterfall’s upper reaches vanish into the cavern’s darkness, creating an illusion of water descending from an infinite height. Fed by water filtering through hundreds of feet of rock from a sink in Cades Cove, Silver Falls exemplifies the intricate hydrology of the region. While only the lower portion is visible along the guided tour path, the sight of Silver Falls remains a highlight for visitors exploring the 1.25-mile underground journey through Tuckaleechee Caverns.
It is a fairly simple process to take the cave tour and view Silver Falls. To plan your trip, visit the Tuckaleechee Caverns website for hours, pricing and other important details. Tickets can be purchased when you arrive.
Closed-toe, non-slip shoes (like hiking or walking shoes) are recommended for the tour – the cave floor can be wet and uneven. A light jacket is also a good idea because the cave stays rather cool.
The guided tour takes around 60 – 75 minutes. Be prepared to walk half a mile, cover uneven and sometimes slick terrain, and climb about 400 steps. Midway through the tour you will reach Silver Falls, fed by water that trickles through limestone from the surface, filtered naturally through rock layers. You’ll be able to view the illuminated lower tier of the falls, as the upper section drops out of view into darkness above.
Best times to visit: The caverns are open daily from March 1 through November 30, confirm at Tuckaleechee Caverns website. Weekdays or early morning hours are less crowded.
Map Location: Tuckaleechee Caverns location