Can You Kayak to Burgess Falls? A Guide to the Best Waterfall Kayaking in Tennessee

The answer is yes, you can! But it’s not for the faint of heart. Burgess Falls is a challenging Class III whitewater run that requires experienced kayakers. The 5-mile trip takes about 3 hours and features a variety of obstacles, including a 10-foot waterfall. If you’re up for the challenge, it’s a truly unforgettable experience.

So Can You Kayak To Burgess Falls?

Can You Kayak to Burgess Falls? A Guide to the Best Waterfall Kayaking in Tennessee

Burgess Falls is a 140-foot waterfall located in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It is one of the most popular destinations for waterfall kayaking in Tennessee. The best time to go is during the spring and summer months, when the water levels are high.

The put-in for the Burgess Falls kayak trail is located at the end of the Little River Road. The trail is approximately 5 miles long and takes about 2 hours to complete. The first half of the trail is a gentle paddle through a hardwood forest. The second half of the trail is more challenging, with a series of rapids and waterfalls.

The most challenging part of the trail is the Class III-IV Lower Falls: This section of the river is narrow and turbulent, with a series of drops and ledges. It is important to have a good understanding of whitewater kayaking before attempting this section.

The Upper Falls is a Class II-III waterfall that can be easily scouted from the shore. It is a beautiful waterfall, and it is worth taking the time to admire it from a safe distance.

The Burgess Falls kayak trail is a great way to experience the beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It is a challenging but rewarding experience that is perfect for experienced kayakers.

Can You Kayak To Burgess Falls?

Burgess Falls is a popular destination for hikers, backpackers, and nature lovers. Located in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the falls are a stunning sight to behold. But can you kayak to Burgess Falls?

The Short Answer

No, you cannot kayak to Burgess Falls. The falls are located in a remote area of the park, and there is no access by water. The only way to reach the falls is by hiking or backpacking.

The Long Answer

The closest point to Burgess Falls that you can reach by water is the Big Creek Campground. The campground is located about 5 miles from the falls, and it is accessible by a hiking trail. The trail is about 3 miles long, and it is moderately difficult.
Once you reach the campground, you will need to hike another 2 miles to reach the falls. The trail is steep and challenging, and it is not recommended for beginners.
If you are planning to kayak to Burgess Falls, you should be prepared for a long and challenging hike. You should also be aware that the falls are located in a remote area of the park, and there are no facilities nearby.

Conclusion

If you are looking for a challenging and rewarding hiking experience, then kayaking to Burgess Falls may be the perfect trip for you. However, you should be aware that it is a long and challenging journey, and you should be prepared for the possibility of encountering difficult conditions.

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