Bald River Falls Bridge Reopens: A Gateway to Beauty, Business, and the Chasing Waterfalls Challenge

There’s exciting news for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and local businesses alike—the Bald River Falls Bridge has officially reopened to the public, once again providing unbeatable access to one of Monroe County’s most iconic natural wonders.

Bald River Falls, located just outside Tellico Plains in the heart of the Cherokee National Forest, is one of the most beloved and photographed waterfalls in Tennessee. Towering at around 90 feet, it’s not just a scenic wonder—it’s a symbol of wild beauty, tranquility, and adventure. The recently reopened bridge now allows easy and direct access to the falls, whether you're driving, biking, or hiking your way through the Tellico River corridor.

A Beloved Local Treasure

Ask anyone who's visited and they'll tell you—Bald River Falls is more than just a waterfall. It’s a four-season spectacle, with vibrant autumn foliage, snow-dusted winter serenity, lush spring greens, and refreshing summer splashes. Locals and tourists alike stop in awe at its thunderous beauty, which is made even more accessible with the new bridge and its safe pedestrian viewing area that spans directly in front of it. Whether you're capturing that perfect photo from the bridge or heading upstream for a back country hike, access to this location just got a whole lot better.

Boosting Business in Monroe County

This reopening isn’t just a win for nature—it’s a win for local businesses in Tellico Plains and Monroe County as a whole. Increased traffic to Bald River Falls means more visitors exploring the area, grabbing coffee in town, browsing local shops, filling up at gas stations, and grabbing a bite to eat before or after their waterfall adventure.

The falls are a magnet for tourism, and now with improved access, they serve as a stronger economic driver—fueling not only foot traffic but also word-of-mouth buzz and social media visibility that puts Monroe County on the map for travelers throughout the Southeast and beyond.

Join the Chasing Waterfalls Challenge

To celebrate the beauty and bounty of Monroe County's natural assets, we’re launching something special: The Chasing Waterfalls Challenge!

Here's how it works:

1. Visit any waterfall in Monroe County—

   Bald River Falls, Kahuna Falls, Bald River Cascades, Shallow Falls, Suislide Falls, Torino Falls, Baby Falls, Fall Branch Falls, Middle Double Camp Creek, Holder Cove, & Conasauga Creek Falls.

2. Snap a photo of yourself or your group near the falls.

3. Post it on social media @VisitMonroeTN using the hashtag: #monroewaterfallschallenge.

4. Stop by the Monroe County Visitor Center to show your post and receive a FREE sticker featuring the waterfall you visited!

Whether you're chasing one or aiming to collect them all 11 stickers, this challenge is a fun, family-friendly way to experience the area’s natural beauty while supporting local tourism and creating lasting memories.

Click here for more information on the CHASING WATERFALLS CHALLENGE.