Twisting Falls
Swimming hole in Johnson City, Tennessee · Waterfall
Twisting Falls on the Elk River near Butler, Tennessee is a dramatic waterfall swimming hole in Cherokee National Forest. The trail down is extremely steep with slick rock; scout depth and avoid swimming during high river flow.
Typical season: Late spring to early autumn offers the best conditions for swimming
About Twisting Falls
Twisting Falls lies in Tennessee, where Elk River moves through a wooded corridor. Visitors trade crowds for a quieter bank access. Unofficial and undeveloped, this . A cold, clear reward at the end of a trail that doesn't pull any punches. The falls themselves are dramatic and full of personality. Water twists and cascades over sculpted rock, dropping into a pool that glimmers with the clarity you only find in mountain streams fed by clean Appalachian hollows. The surrounding forest is dense and alive. Rhododendron tangles crowd the banks, hemlocks filter the light into shifting green patterns, and the sounds of moving water follow you down the trail. In late spring and summer, the canopy overhead keeps the gorge cool even on warm days, and in autumn the hillsides ignite in shades of amber, crimson, and gold. Even in winter, when visitor traffic drops to near zero, the falls command attention. Swollen with snowmelt and rain, they roar with a force that reminds you this river is always working. At the base of the falls, you'll find a deep, crystal-clear pool that catches the full energy of the cascades. The kind of cold that makes you gasp and grin at the same time. This lower pool is the prime jumping spot, with rocky ledges offering launch points for those willing to commit to the plunge. Above the falls, calmer water invites a more relaxed swim in a setting that feels almost impossibly serene. No lifeguards patrol Twisting Falls. Facilities are limited, so judge depth, current, and weather when you arrive.
Key facts
Structured details for trip planning — verify access and fees with the land manager before you visit.
- Water type
- Falls
- Water body
- Elk River
- Fee
- Free
- Nearest town
- Johnson City
- State
- Tennessee
- Coordinates
- 36.23090, -81.97517
- Best season
- Late spring to early autumn offers the best conditions for swimming. Fall provides stunning foliage, and winter showcases the falls' power with higher water levels.
- Access difficulty
- Moderate to difficult; steep, direct trail without switchbacks requires caution and sturdy footwear.
- Parking
- Designated area
- Restrooms
- None on site
- Lifeguard
- None — assume unguarded
- Cliff jumping
- Reported
- Camping
- None at site. Camping nearby at Dennis Cove campground, which is on Dennis Cove Rd. Also at Garden's Bluff campground which is north of Hampton on RT 321.
- Activities
- Swimming, Jumping
- Facilities
- No on-site amenities. Nearest campgrounds are Dennis Cove and Garden’s Bluff. Plan ahead and bring all necessary supplies.
- Listing last updated
- May 12, 2026
The experience
- Best time to visitLate spring to early autumn offers the best conditions for swimming. Fall provides stunning foliage, and winter showcases the falls' power with higher water levels.
- AccessModerate to difficult; steep, direct trail without switchbacks requires caution and sturdy footwear.
- FacilitiesNo on-site amenities. Nearest campgrounds are Dennis Cove and Garden’s Bluff. Plan ahead and bring all necessary supplies.
- Camping nearbyNone at site. Camping nearby at Dennis Cove campground, which is on Dennis Cove Rd. Also at Garden's Bluff campground which is north of Hampton on RT 321.
Highlights & features
- Scenic waterfalls on Elk River
- Crystal-clear swimming hole
- Challenging steep trail access
- Rock jumping opportunities
- Vibrant Appalachian surroundings
- Dramatic cascading falls
- Swimming at both the base and top of the falls
- Remote yet accessible location
How to get there
Twisting Falls lies in Tennessee near Johnson City, Elizabethton, and Hampton. Use these driving notes as a starting point and confirm road conditions before you go. Twisting Falls is a stunning ). Use these driving notes to reach the falls safely and Have a safe visit. Driving Directions:
From Johnson City
Begin by heading northeast to Elizabethton
From Elizabethton: Take Route 321 southeast toward Hampton
As you approach Hampton, note that the Laurel Fork
From Hampton: Continue on Route 321 until you reach Poga Road Turn right (south) onto Poga Road at the intersection near a gas station and restaurant. This is a key landmark to ensure you’re on the correct route.
Note: Poga Road is not well-marked, so pay close attention to the following instructions. Navigating Poga Road
Shortly after turning onto Poga Road, you will need to cross a bridge over a river. To stay on Poga Road: Turn left onto the bridge. After crossing the bridge, turn right onto the road that follows the river you just crossed. Continue on Poga Road for about 4 miles
Turn onto Clawson Road
After 4 miles on Poga Road, turn right onto Clawson Road
Turn onto Dark Ridge Road: After driving 0.5 miles on Clawson Road, turn right onto Dark Ridge Road
Follow Dark Ridge Road until it forks. At the fork, bear right and continue to the end of the road.
Parking and Trailhead
As you approach the end of Dark Ridge Road, look for an old barn on a hill to your left. This is a helpful landmark indicating you’re near the parking area. At the end of the road, you will find an apparent parking area in front of a gated dirt road Do not take the gated dirt road.
The correct trail begins to the right of the parking area and is marked with yellow blazes Hiking Directions
Follow the trail marked with yellow blazes. This short trail will lead you to a small clearing beneath power lines. As you approach the clearing, look for the trail that descends to the river on your left Important: This trail is steep and does not have switchbacks. It is a direct descent down the side of the gorge, so exercise caution. Once you reach the river: You will have a partial view of Twisting Falls upstream. To access the swimming area. To access the top of the falls Look for the steep trail on the right side of the river (when facing upstream). Follow this trail carefully to reach the top.
Additional Notes: Safety
The trails are steep and can be challenging. Wear sturdy footwear and take your time navigating the descent.
Parking
Ensure your vehicle is parked responsibly in the designated area without blocking access to the gated dirt road. Preparation: Bring water, snacks, and any necessary gear for swimming. Cell service may be limited in this area. Have a safe visit to Twisting Falls and take in the beauty of this remarkable ! Bring water, sunscreen, and gear for a primitive swim day. Weekends and holidays can draw more visitors. Check local updates on access and water levels before you leave home.
Plan your visit
Twisting Falls works well as a day trip from Johnson City or Elizabethton. Stock up in town, then head to the water with food, water, and sun protection. Pair the swim with a stop at Elk River Falls (about 2.2 mi away) or browse more Tennessee waterfall spots in our directory. For the full list in Tennessee, see our state directory.
Access & fees
This is an unofficial, unmaintained natural area. Access involves navigating unmarked rural roads and a steep, rugged trail descent to the river. There is no fee, but also no facilities, lifeguards, or services. Parking is informal and limited. Visitors assume all risk.
Frequently asked questions
How difficult is the hike to Twisting Falls TN?
The hike is steep, rugged, and challenging (roughly 0.5 miles with steep elevation change). Sturdy hiking shoes and caution on wet rock are required.
Can you swim at Twisting Falls near Butler Tennessee?
Yes, the deep plunge pool at the base of the falls is popular for swimming in summer. Strong currents exist near the falls base — stay in calm water and never jump without checking depth.
Is Twisting Falls free to visit?
Yes, access is on Cherokee National Forest land with no entry fee. Parking along the road is limited; arrive early and do not block the roadway.
Can you swim at Twisting Falls?
Yes. Twisting Falls near Johnson City, Elizabethton, and Hampton in TN has waterfall / cascade pools on Elk River used for swimming. Rocks are slippery and there are no lifeguards at informal access.
Is Twisting Falls free?
Access is generally free (fee listed as “No”). Confirm any parking or day-use rules on site, and pack out trash.
How do you get to Twisting Falls?
Twisting Falls is in TN within day-trip range of Johnson City, Elizabethton, and Hampton. Use a current map for the put-in or park entrance; cell service can be limited at remote spots.
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Map & location
Culture & history
Located in the heart of Appalachia, the area reflects the rich heritage of the region, from its historic small towns to its connection with the Appalachian Trail.
Conservation
Visitors should adhere to Leave No Trace principles to protect the fragile ecosystem. Stay on marked trails and pack out all trash.
Sources & updates
Reference sources
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