Walls Of Jericho
Swimming hole in Chattanooga, Tennessee · Waterfall
A guide to hiking the Walls of Jericho in Tennessee. Find trail info, safety tips, and directions to this unofficial waterfall and swimming area.
About Walls Of Jericho
Tucked into the rugged folds of the Tennessee-Alabama border, the Walls of Jericho is one of the Southeast's most dramatic natural rewards — a soaring limestone amphitheater carved by time and water, where Turkey Creek tumbles through cascades into a crystalline swimming hole far below the surrounding ridgelines. This is a place you earn, and that effort makes every moment at the water's edge feel genuinely earned.
The Setting: A Cathedral of Stone and Forest
The hike in sets the tone immediately. You'll descend — and ascend on the return — a strenuous 3.5-mile trail each way, navigating steep inclines and multiple stream crossings through dense hardwood forest. The landscape shifts as you go deeper into the Hurricane Creek Gorge, the canopy closing overhead and the sound of moving water growing louder beneath your feet. When the gorge finally opens and the limestone walls rise around you, the effect is genuinely breathtaking. Sheer pale cliffs curve in a near-complete circle, creating a natural arena that muffles outside sound and amplifies the rush of falling water. Seasonal wildflowers push through cracks in the rock in spring, and come October, the amphitheater blazes with amber and crimson foliage reflected in the pools below.
The Swimming: Cold, Clear, and Hard-Won
Turkey Creek feeds the site with water that runs exceptionally clear, filtered through limestone karst terrain before it reaches you. The cascades and waterfalls that define the Walls of Jericho create natural plunge pools where you can wade in and feel the cold rush immediately — this is mountain water, refreshing even on warm days and genuinely cold in early season. Spring and early summer bring the most reliable water levels, with flows energetic enough to fill the pools and animate the falls. Swimming here is unofficial and unsanctioned, meaning there are no lifeguards or safety staff on site. The rocky terrain demands careful footing both around the water and on the trail. That said, for experienced hikers comfortable with remote conditions, the payoff is a swimming experience that feels entirely removed from the ordinary world.
Practical
The experience
- Best time to visit Spring (March to May) and early summer (June) for stable water levels and vibrant foliage. Autumn (October) for stunning fall colors.
- Access Strenuous hike; 3.5 miles each way with steep inclines and stream crossings. Suitable for experienced hikers.
- Facilities Primitive camping available; minimal facilities. Visitors should pack essentials and be self-sufficient.
- Camping nearby Primitive camping at site.
Highlights & features
- Dramatic limestone amphitheater
- Crystal-clear waters of Turkey Creek
- Strenuous 3.5-mile hike
- Seasonal wildlife and plant diversity
- Primitive camping available
- Natural amphitheater setting
- Limestone cliffs
- Refreshing cascades and waterfalls
How to get there
The Walls of Jericho is a stunning natural area located near the Tennessee-Alabama border. It offers a challenging but rewarding hike to a beautiful gorge with cascades and a swimming hole. Below are clear and detailed directions to help you reach the trailhead and prepare for your visit.
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Driving Directions from Chattanooga, TN
Start on I-24 West
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From Chattanooga, take Interstate 24 westbound toward Monteagle.
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Exit onto US-41A West
After approximately 30 miles, take Exit 134 for Monteagle. Follow US-41A west toward Winchester, passing through the town of Sewanee.
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Turn onto TN-16 South
In Winchester, turn left onto TN-16 South (also known as South College Street). Continue on TN-16 South for about 25 miles. This road will take you across the Tennessee-Alabama state line. Look for the Parking Area Just after crossing into Alabama, look to your right for a gravel parking area. The parking lot is marked by a yellow gate and an information kiosk. This is the trailhead for the Walls of Jericho hike.
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Important Parking and Trailhead Information
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Parking
The gravel parking area is free and provides ample space for vehicles. Be sure to park responsibly and avoid blocking the gate or other vehicles. Trailhead: The trail begins at the information kiosk near the yellow gate. Maps and additional details about the hike are available at the kiosk. Hiking Details: Trail Length:
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The hike is approximately 3.5 miles each way (7 miles round trip). Difficulty
This is a strenuous hike. The trail descends steeply into the Hurricane Creek Gorge on the way in and climbs steeply on the way out. Trail Conditions: The trail is well-marked but can be muddy, especially after rain. Several stream crossings are required, so be prepared to get wet. Stream Levels: Be cautious during or after thunderstorms, as stream levels can rise quickly, making crossings hazardous. What to Bring: Plenty of water Sturdy hiking shoes A walking stick or trekking poles Rain gear (weather can change quickly) Snacks or a packed lunch A change of clothes and a towel if you plan to swim
Plan your visit
The Walls of Jericho sits near the borders of Tennessee and Alabama, making it accessible from several directions. Chattanooga, Tennessee, and Winchester, Tennessee, serve as the closest major jumping-off points to the north, while Scottsboro, Alabama, offers a southern approach. Stock up on supplies in any of these towns before heading out — once you're on the trail, you're on your own.
The Walls of Jericho sits near the borders of Tennessee and Alabama, making it accessible from several directions. Chattanooga, Tennessee, and Winchester, Tennessee, serve as the closest major jumping-off points to the north, while Scottsboro, Alabama, offers a southern approach. Stock up on supplies in any of these towns before heading out — once you're on the trail, you're on your own.
Access & fees
This is an unofficial natural area with no fee information available. Parking is at a gravel lot with an information kiosk. The trail is strenuous and involves hazardous stream crossings, especially after rain. No lifeguards or services are present.
This is an unofficial natural area with no fee information available. Parking is at a gravel lot with an information kiosk. The trail is strenuous and involves hazardous stream crossings, especially after rain. No lifeguards or services are present.
Frequently asked questions
Is WALLS OF JERICHO free to visit?
WALLS OF JERICHO may require a fee or pass. Reported fee: No. Fees and hours change seasonally — verify current pricing with the managing agency before your visit.
Is swimming allowed at WALLS OF JERICHO?
Yes, WALLS OF JERICHO is an officially sanctioned recreation area where swimming is permitted. Reported activities include: Swimming. Always respect posted closures and seasonal restrictions.
What type of swimming spot is WALLS OF JERICHO?
WALLS OF JERICHO is a falls on Turkey Creek located in TN, near CHATTANOOGA. A guide to hiking the Walls of Jericho in Tennessee. Find trail info, safety tips, and directions to this unofficial waterfall and swimming area.
When is the best time to visit WALLS OF JERICHO?
The best time to visit WALLS OF JERICHO is Spring (March to May) and early summer (June) for stable water levels and vibrant foliage. Autumn (October) for stunning fall colors.. Water levels, clarity, and temperature vary with recent weather — always check conditions before going, especially after rain or snowmelt.
What facilities are available at WALLS OF JERICHO?
Reported facilities at WALLS OF JERICHO include: Primitive camping available; minimal facilities. Visitors should pack essentials and be self-sufficient.. Amenities can change — contact the managing agency or check recent visitor reports to confirm current availability.
Is camping available near WALLS OF JERICHO?
Primitive camping at site.
Nearby swimming holes
Map & location
Culture & history
Known as 'the Grand Canyon of the South,' with geological formations dating back thousands of years.
Conservation
Practice Leave No Trace principles to protect the fragile ecosystem. Avoid damaging plant life and disturbing wildlife.