Overview
Coon Den Falls is a short but demanding climb through the forest near Dennis Cove. The distance is modest, but the trail asks considerably more of the body than the mileage might suggest.
The route begins with a steady approach and a stream crossing before the main climb begins. From there, the trail rises sharply in sections, requiring persistence, attention, and thoughtful pacing.
At the top, Coon Den Falls provides a quiet place to rest after the climb. The contrast between the sustained effort of the ascent and the relative stillness of the waterfall is part of what makes this trail distinctive.
Coon Den Falls can be reached by more than one route. The information on this page describes the route beginning near Dennis Cove that Eremos has personally documented.
Trail at a Glance
Location: Dennis Cove, Hampton, Tennessee
Route: Dennis Cove to Coon Den Falls and back
Distance: Approximately 1.5 miles
Difficulty: 1.25 / 5
Terrain: Steep forest trail with sustained climbing
Water: One stream crossing approximately 0.2 miles into the route
Trail Type: Out-and-back
Traffic: Generally quiet and lightly traveled
Seasonal Considerations: Sections can become slick depending on conditions. This route is not recommended when temperatures are below freezing at the base of the trail.
The short distance should not be taken as an indication that this is an easy hike.
Key Points
The climb begins after the stream crossing. The crossing occurs approximately 0.2 miles into the route. The primary ascent follows soon afterward.
The trail is steeper than its mileage suggests. This is a short route, but the sustained climb makes it physically demanding.
Pacing matters. There is no need to rush the ascent. Take breaks when needed and allow yourself enough energy for the return trip.
Conditions can change the difficulty. Wet conditions can make sections of the trail slick. Freezing temperatures can create additional hazards, and the route is not recommended when temperatures are below freezing at the trailhead.
The waterfall is not the end of the effort. Reaching Coon Den Falls completes the climb, but the return requires descending the same demanding terrain.
Walking the Trail
The route begins with a relatively steady approach through the forest. For the first portion of the hike, the terrain gives you time to settle into the trail before the character of the route changes.
Approximately 0.2 miles in, the trail crosses a stream. Conditions at the crossing can vary depending on recent weather, so take the time to assess it before continuing.
Beyond the crossing, the trail begins to climb more seriously. The ascent becomes steep in sections and continues for much of the route toward the falls. The short distance can make the trail seem deceptively approachable, but the climb requires steady effort and attention.
There is no need to maintain a fast pace. Taking breaks and finding a sustainable rhythm will serve you better than trying to reach the falls quickly.
Eventually, the trail reaches Coon Den Falls. After the sustained climb, the waterfall provides a natural place to stop, rest, and take in the surroundings before beginning the return journey.
The route back follows the same trail, turning the climb into a descent and bringing you back through the stream crossing and toward Dennis Cove.
Before You Go
Coon Den Falls is best suited for hikers with some hiking experience and a moderate level of fitness. The trail is short, but the sustained climb makes it more physically demanding than the distance suggests.
Wear footwear with good traction and be prepared for uneven, potentially slick terrain. Bring enough water for the hike and dress appropriately for mountain weather.
Pay particular attention to the stream crossing and current trail conditions. Recent rain can affect footing and water levels, while freezing temperatures can make the route hazardous.
If you’re unfamiliar with the Dennis Cove area, make sure you know the exact parking and starting location for this route before setting out.
Walk It With Eremos
Eremos occasionally leads guided hikes to Coon Den Falls.
A guided experience gives us the opportunity to move through a more demanding trail together, with room to adjust our pace, take breaks, communicate when we need support, and pay attention to what the trail is revealing along the way.
Explore Eremos Half-Day Hikes →
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