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Submission
Virgin Falls is located south off of US Hwy 70 between Sparta, and Crossville. From Sparta head east through town out Hwy 70, approximately 11 miles. Turn right on Eastland Road (at the Headstart building, and the turn has signs), proceed 6 miles to the junction of Scotts Gulf road (also signed), then on 2 miles to the parking lot on the right side (west side) of the road.
Backcountry camping is permitted at designated campsites only. Backpackers are required to use the on-line reservation system in order to insure that they have a campsite.
This was our favorite hike. I can't say enough good about this park! we did an 11 mile hike on Saturday it was gorgeous.. 😍
Hiked Lost Cave Trail to the upper parking lot... about 9 miles. Quite strenuous. Water flow was excellent. Good display of spring wildflowers. Biting bugs were bad on upper end of trail 😮 Poison ivy has arrived 😐
Do not follow the GPS to falls, it will take you no where. Navigate to Virgin Falls trailhead parking.
Amazing waterfalls at the end of a beautiful 4mile hike. 4~5 hour round trip just to the falls, there are some overlooks and small falls on the way if you want to take deviations. Was less crowded when we visited during Memorial Day weekend. Few miles of unpaved roads till you reach to the trail entrance. Lot of parking availability and there is a park officer during day hours with maps and informations.
Look for weather conditions before coming. Back lot of water. Slightly long trail with downhill and uphill trails. Consider camping at the park to enjoy nature.
My husband and I attempted the hike to Virgin Falls in '21, and I just couldn't make it. We tried again yesterday, and met many friendly folks with insight about the hike or amazing stories to share. We were grateful for all of them! My husband and I are in our 60s, so probably a little more challenging for us, but we endured, took in all the beauty along the way, and finally reached the Virgin Falls. We took a little time there to regroup, relax, watch and listen to the falls, rehydrate, and revel in our accomplishment. Then it was time for the return trek back to the trailhead. To me, this trail is every bit of a "strenuous" trail, with the roots, boulders, and continuous ups and downs being the norm. A level straightaway without roots and boulders is definitely the exception, but if you've got the physical capability and endurance to take this hike, it will probably be one of the most memorable hikes you've ever taken, and you will be amazed by all the beauty! Pat yourself on the back when you've completed this hike, 'cause you've earned it!
Had a great time hiking in, camping, and hiking back out the next morning. The hike in to Virgin Falls isn't bad (4.3 miles) and mostly down, but all of that down hill is a rough stair-climber workout on the way out. Recommend stopping to check out Sheep's Cave and other waterfalls on the way out as a break in the climb.
Side note - don't go in the caves. They are closed due to white-noise syndrome with the bats.
