Fall Branch Falls

A Waterfall Worth the Walk

Fall Branch Falls is a gem of a waterfall located along the John Litton/General Slaven Farm Loop in Big South Fork, accessible from the Bandy Creek Trailhead or the pool parking area near the visitor center. The falls sit along a 1.9-mile connector trail that links the John Litton Farm Loop to the Grand Gap Loop, making them a natural stopping point on a longer scenic day hike.

The Setting

What sets Fall Branch Falls apart is its setting. The waterfall tumbles through a narrow gorge framed by massive hemlocks and dramatic sandstone formations. The surrounding forest is remarkably lush, with mossy rocks, fern-covered banks, and the cool stillness of old-growth woodland that feels worlds away from everyday life. It’s the kind of place where you’ll want to sit for a while and just listen.

The John Litton Farm Loop

Fall Branch Falls is best experienced as part of the larger John Litton Farm Loop, which is widely regarded as one of the finest hikes in all of Big South Fork. The full loop takes you through a preserved 19th-century mountain farmstead — the Litton homestead — with original structures still standing, offering a rare glimpse into the lives of the families who once carved a living from this rugged plateau. The combination of history, waterfall, and scenery makes this one of the most memorable routes in the park.

Getting There

Begin at the Bandy Creek Trailhead near the Bandy Creek Visitor Center in Oneida (the closest main hub to Fentress County). The trail is well-marked. Pick up a map at the visitor center before heading out.