Fancher Falls - A Magical Little Paradise

Center Hill Lake is 64 miles long. It has an abundance of beauty and breathtaking views among its miles. On one section of the lake is a quiet cove full of butterflies and striking rock formations. It houses two waterfalls. Fancher Falls (80 feet) and Mist Falls (100 feet). While Mist Falls is taller, Fancher is the main attraction. 

 

There are some important things to note about Fancher Falls. You can only view Fancher from the bottom and that is only accessible via waterway. The top is private property. You can see houses up top sitting on the edge the best when the trees drop their leaves. 

For this paddle, it's important to know it's about a 3 mile (each way) out and back paddle. Heading back the last mile is the hardest part because you're tired and coming into a large open area where the boat dock is. You'll hit waves from boats and more often than not, there is a pretty good wind to your face. The best time to go is early morning on a weekday if possible, leaving from and returning to Cookeville Boat Dock. A lot of people mistakingly take that first right in front of the boathouses at the boat ramp. The trip is long enough without a wrong turn, be sure to follow the map and make the correct turns. There is a sign at the large split that shows Fancher Falls to the right, it's a brown sign though and sometimes hard to see, especially when the trees grow up around it in the summer time.

Fancher/Mist Falls are on Center Hill Lake, just like Burgess Falls and if you read my last blog post on Burgess Falls you know water levels are regulated and you can only paddle to the base of the falls 3-4 months out of the year. The rest of the time, expect a short hike up. The hike up to Fancher is muddy on the lower sides. If you don't want to walk in the mud or water, the higher ground is good but you'll be walking at an angle so it is more strenuous. Take your time, and go slow. The waterfalls aren't going anywhere so you don't need to rush walking up.

These two pictures above are from October 17, 2022, look at those amazing fall colors! The picture of the long straightaway was taken next to the kayaks where we had to get out and walk up. The waterfall is the little speck at the end.          

This is truly a magical place to visit, but make sure to stay a little while and enjoy the whole experience. Sitting on the rocks, eating lunch and hearing the waterfall's soothing sounds as the water hits the rock below makes for an amazing day. 

One thing to note though is Taylor Creek feeds Fancher Falls. There is no dam up above so if we get a significant rainfall, stay clear for a couple of days. Fancher will rage for those couple of days and then settle down very quickly. 

 

The above pictures are from March 2021. We had received TONS of rain and water was coming from everywhere! The power of water is incredible and definitely worthy of much respect!  

Just like when visiting any waterfall in Middle Tennessee know where you are going and what to expect. Wear a life jacket while on the water and keep yourself safe. It is a pretty long journey with heavier boat traffic than in other places. Bring your food, bring your water/sunscreen and have yourself a safe and fun adventure!

Don't forget while Hiking and Kayaking to Leave No Trace! Help us to keep Tennessee beautiful for many generations to come!

Here is our haul from our trip out to Fancher this week!

Thank you for following my blog! Remember to ask questions, be informed/safe when paddling/hiking, and have yourself some amazing adventures! See you after the next adventure!

 

Kayaking Adventures of Tennessee

**This is not an all-inclusive list of everything you need to know before you go. Just some highlights on some important things to know. Be sure to know the difficulty of your hike/kayak vs. your skill level, have proper directions and know the rules before you go for your best experience here in middle Tennessee. Research, Prepare, Adventure!***