Worth the trip outside of Nashville, if you are a fan of natural beauty.

About a 2-hour drive from Nashville, Virgin Falls State Natural Area past Smithville and before you hit Crossville.  Its namesake is a gorgeous waterfall, which is certainly the high point of the visit but there are also several other pretty sites and vistas – creeks, falls, cliffs - to explore and take in during your visit.

There are multiple trails that vary in length, but we chose “Virgin Falls Trail” which is just under 9 miles.  It’s fine for older kids but too long for young ones for a day trip. All in all it can take you anywhere from 5 to 8 hours, it is steep in places, and it can get wet and slippery.

Shorter options could include “Martha’s Pretty Point Overlook” or “Virgin Falls Trail to Upland Trail Loop”.

Tips: Dogs should be leashed.