On our way back from Baby Falls, we found parking was available at Bald River Falls so we stopped for a quick visit. Together, the two plunges of Bald River Falls are approximately 80 feet high. With our visit in early April 2019, we expected to see more signs of spring.
To reach Bald River Falls from the Tellico Plains, Tennessee, Visitor Center, drive about five miles east on the Cherohala Skyway (TN-165) then turn right on paved River Road (National Forest System Road 210). Drive about 6 miles to the bridge over Bald River. The waterfall is easily viewed on the right. After crossing the bridge, there is a paved parking lot on the right. Parking is provided for about a dozen vehicles.
The scenic drive along the Tellico River to Bald River Falls and beyond is one of my favorites. These images are from a visit in October 2011.
The most scenic portion of the Tellico River is the gorge located along River Road (US Forest Service road 210) in Cherokee National Forest east of Tellico Plains, Tennessee.
Bald River Falls is one of the most easily accessible waterfalls in East Tennessee. At 90 feet, it is also one of the highest. To access the falls from the Cherohala Skyway Visitor Center in Tellico Plains, drive east on the Skyway (TN 165) for 5.0 miles then turn right on River Road (FS 210) and drive 6.2 miles to the bridge over Bald River. The waterfall will be on your right. Paved parking is available at the far end of the bridge.
To reach the 10-foot high Kahuna Falls, find the trailhead at the east end of the parking area at Bald River Falls. Follow the trail (Cherokee National Forest trail 88) up through a switchback, down a set of stairs, across a sturdy bridge to a vantage point above Bald River Falls. Kahuna Falls is just upstream of the vantage point. Although steep, the trail is very short and should not pose a problem for most visitors. Hiking around waterfalls can be dangerous, so please follow the Forest Service Waterfall Safety Checklist that I've copied below:
Preparing to Visit a National Forest - Waterfalls
Waterfalls are popular places for viewing, picnicking and wading. While beautiful to see, they often pose risks to unprepared visitors.
Slippery rocks, steep slopes and undercurrents can catch you by surprise when walking through or in the vicinity of a waterfall.
