Virgin Falls-Sparta, TN

The hike to Virgin Falls is one of my favorite in Tennessee. It is extremely difficult. Total mileage is between 8 and 10 miles depending if you do the overlook or not. I cannot stress enough how difficult this hike is. You are descending the entire time and by the time you get to the falls you will be exhausted only to have to turn around and climb out. If you go in the fall, when it gets dark early, please start early in the day and pay close attention to the time. The hike is generally one mile an hour. Take plenty of water or have a filter. Wear good shoes..NOT FLIP-FLOPS. I do not recommend this hike for small children. This is NOT the hike to take them on to get them interested in hiking. There is camping. The area is managed by the Fall Creek Falls rangers and you must go through their website to reserve a spot.