Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee
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Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee |
| DESCRIPTION: | Virgin Falls is a very unique waterfall! It is formed by an underground stream which surfaces on the side of a sinkhole, runs over a flat rock surface for approximately 60 feet, only to cascade 110 feet and enter a cave at its base. The forested trail follows to the right side of the creek downstream to a loop near the falls. The return trip is made by backpacking this main trail once the loop is completed. The total distance is about eight miles . Side trails lead to scenic overlooks and to a backpacker camping area. Allow yourself 6-8 hours for the full hiking experience. The stream runs year-round, but the low water levels in the summer reduce this impact of this awesome attraction. |
| DIRECTIONS: | Take I-40 East for about 75 miles to Exit 288 at Livingston-Sparta. Turn right off the exit onto Highway 111 South for 11 miles. After you pass McDonalds, take the Sparta/Smithville/70 exit. Take a left off the exit onto 70 East. Travel for another 11 miles through Sparta. Take a sharp right onto Eastland Rd. There is a BP gas station at the corner, and if you reach Rossett, you've gone too far. Follow this road for 6 miles (don't worry, it is supposed to change from paved to unpaved!) Take the right where you see the sign for Chestnut Mountain Wilderness. Follow this gravel road for 2 more miles park it in the lot on the right, and get ready for a hike! |
| CAMPGROUNDS: | The only camping available is the backpacker site on one of the side trails. It is at the extreme end of the loop, about four miles out, and is very near to the falls! |
| CAUTIONS: | The trail is gravel, and care must be taken to not slide on the loose surface, especially in those places where the trail is somewhat steep. |
| FOR MORE INFO: | Check out pages 159-161 of Tennessee Trails by Evan Means in the Outdoor Recreation Library. Information is also available from the Public Relations Department at the Bowater Southern Paper Corporation, Calhoun, Tennessee 37309. |