Category: Tennessee

State Park Road Trips Worth the Drive From Dallas, Texas

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If you’re planning your first big state park road trip from Dallas, these four parks are absolutely worth adding to your list. From canyon views and waterfalls to hidden caves and lush forest trails, each one offers a completely different experience — and all are drivable for a long weekend adventure.

1. Palo Duro Canyon State Park — Texas’ “Grand Canyon”

Park Website | Phone Number: (806) 488-2227 | Address: 11450 Park Road 5, Canyon, TX 79015

Why Visit

Massive red rock canyons, dramatic overlooks, iconic hiking trails, and some of the best scenery in Texas. This is one of the most epic road trips from Dallas for first-time canyon explorers.

Drive Time From Dallas

  • About 5-6 hours

Admission

  • $8 per adult (13+)
  • Kids 12 and under: free

Hours

  • Gate Hours: 7 a.m.–10 p.m.
  • Reservations strongly recommended, especially weekends.

Best Things To Do

  • Hike the Lighthouse Trail
  • Watch sunrise/sunset from canyon overlooks
  • Horseback riding tours
  • Camping inside the canyon
  • Scenic drives through the park

Lodging Options

  • Doves Rest Cabins — luxury canyon-view cabins near the park
  • Camping and glamping available inside the park
  • Amarillo hotels are about 30–40 minutes away

Nearby Food

  • Sad Monkey Mercantile — perfect casual stop near the canyon
  • Coyote Bluff Cafe — famous burgers in Amarillo

First-Time Visitor Tips

  • Summer heat gets intense very early
  • Start hikes at sunrise when possible
  • Cell service can be limited inside the canyon
  • Bring more water than you think you’ll need

2. Fall Creek Falls State Park — Tennessee Waterfall Paradise

Park Website | Phone Number: (423) 881-5298 | Address: 2009 Village Camp Road, Spencer, TN 38585

Why Visit

This park feels completely different from Texas — lush forests, huge waterfalls, suspension bridges, lakes, and endless hiking. It’s one of the most beautiful state parks in the Southeast.

Drive Time From Dallas

  • About 10–11 hours

Admission

  • Free admission to the park.

Best Things To Do

  • See the 256-foot Fall Creek Falls waterfall
  • Hike to multiple waterfall overlooks
  • Walk the suspension bridge
  • Kayak or paddle the lake
  • Visit Cane Creek Cascades

Lodging Options

  • Lodge at Fall Creek Falls — newly renovated lodge inside the park
  • Cabins and campgrounds throughout the park

Nearby Dining

  • Gaul’s Gallery at Fall Creek Falls — scenic lodge dining with lake views

First-Time Visitor Tips

  • Trails can become slippery after rain
  • Expect lots of stairs on waterfall hikes
  • Fall foliage season is especially stunning
  • Great destination for families because there are easy scenic stops too

3. Alabaster Caverns State Park — Oklahoma’s Hidden Cave Adventure

Park Website | Phone Number: (580) 621-3381 | Address: 217036 SH 50A, Freedom, OK 73842

Why Visit

This is one of the most unique state parks near Texas because the main attraction is an enormous gypsum cave system. It feels like stepping into another world.

Drive Time From Dallas

  • About 5–6 hours

Admission

  • Park entry is free
  • Cave tours require tickets
  • Guided cave tours run daily from 9 a.m.–4 p.m.
  • Wild Caving available in 4 caves

Cave Tour Pricing

  • Adults: about $10
  • Kids: discounted admission available
  • Wild Caving: $9 per person

Best Things To Do

  • Guided cave tour
  • Wild caving (advanced)
  • Hiking trails
  • Stargazing
  • Camping

Lodging Options

  • RV and tent camping inside the park
  • Small-town lodging in nearby Freedom, Oklahoma
  • Woodward hotels are about an hour away

Nearby Dining

  • Freedom Chophouse — local steakhouse option nearby

First-Time Visitor Tips

  • Bring a light jacket — caves stay cool year-round
  • Reserve cave tours ahead during busy weekends
  • Very remote area with limited services
  • Excellent dark skies for night photography

4. Natural Falls State Park — Oklahoma’s Hidden Waterfall

Park Website | Phone Number: 918-422-5802 | Address: 19225 E 578 Rd, Colcord, OK 74338

Why Visit

This hidden gem near the Arkansas border has one of the prettiest waterfalls in Oklahoma. The waterfall sits inside a mossy canyon that honestly feels more like the Pacific Northwest than Oklahoma.

Drive Time From Dallas

  • About 4.5–5 hours

Admission

  • $8 day-use parking fee may apply depending on season/camping reservations.

Best Things To Do

  • View the 77-foot waterfall
  • Hike the scenic loop trails
  • Stay in yurts or cabins
  • Picnic at overlooks
  • RV camping

Lodging Options

  • Yurts and campgrounds inside the park
  • Hotels available near Siloam Springs, Arkansas

Nearby Dining

  • Pinch of Southern — casual Southern comfort food nearby

First-Time Visitor Tips

  • The main waterfall trail includes stairs
  • Spring and early summer are the greenest months
  • Great stop for beginner hikers and families
  • Smaller park, but extremely photogenic

Best Time To Visit These Parks

ParkBest Seasons
Palo Duro CanyonOctober–April
Fall Creek FallsSpring + Fall
Alabaster CavernsYear-round
Natural FallsSpring + Early Summer

What I’d Pack For All 4

  • Refillable water bottle
  • Portable charger
  • Hiking shoes
  • Lightweight rain jacket
  • Snacks for remote stretches
  • Offline maps downloaded ahead of time

Click here for a list of our favorite gear!

These parks each bring something totally different to a road trip itinerary — canyon landscapes, waterfalls, caves, forests, and scenic hikes — which is what makes these such fun “worth the drive” destinations from Dallas.

Top 5 Road Trips from Dallas

Posted in Colorado, Dallas, Destinations, Iowa, Tennessee, Texas, UtahTagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , Leave a comment

If you’re anything like me, you want road trips that are worth the drive, easy to plan, and actually fun with kids.

These are my Top 5 road trips from Dallas—a mix of iconic destinations and unexpected gems that deliver big on views, adventure, and family memories.

Fall Creek Falls State Park, TN

If you want a destination that feels like a true escape without complicated planning, this is it.

Best Route: Dallas → Little Rock → Memphis → Nashville → Fall Creek Falls

Drive time: ~10–11 hours
Best for: Waterfalls + easy adventure

Best Stops Along the Way:

  • Little Rock – Quick riverfront stop, bathrooms, stretch
  • Memphis – Great lunch stop (easy + lots of options)
    • Optional: Beale Street quick walk
  • Nashville – Dinner stop or overnight if splitting drive

Skip This:

  • Overpacking stops after Memphis → push through
  • Trying to do Nashville + park same day (too rushed)

Best Overnight Option: Nashville (breaks drive perfectly)

Why we loved it:

  • One of the tallest waterfalls in the Eastern U.S.
  • You can hike to the base OR enjoy stunning overlooks
  • On-site lodge, restaurant, and activities (huge win for families)
  • Horseback riding + wide open space for kids to explore

Don’t miss:

  • Fall Creek Falls overlook
  • The hike down to the base (worth it!)
  • Cane Creek Falls

Road Trip Queen Tip: Stay at the lodge—it makes everything so much easier with kids.

Bonus Stop (Different Route): Stephens Gap Cave (Hidden Gem Alert)

Near Woodville, Alabama (about 40 min off route)

If you’re up for a little adventure, this is one of the coolest hidden stops on the way to Fall Creek Falls State Park.

What makes it special:

  • A massive cave opening with light beams shining down
  • Seasonal waterfall flowing into the cave (incredible after rain)
  • Feels like something straight out of a movie

⚠️ What to know before you go:

  • Permit required (this is key!)
  • Best after rain for waterfall views
  • Short hike in, but can be muddy/slippery
  • Not ideal for very young kids unless you’re prepared

Road Trip Queen Tip: If you want something easy and stress-free, skip it. If you want a wow-factor hidden gem, it’s absolutely worth the detour.

Palo Duro Canyon State Park, TX

Known as the “Grand Canyon of Texas,” this is one of the most accessible epic landscapes you’ll find.

Best Route: Dallas → Wichita Falls → Amarillo → Palo Duro

Drive time: ~6 hours
Best for: Big views without big effort

Best Stops:

  • Wichita Falls – Quick stretch + snack stop
  • Amarillo – Lunch stop before heading into canyon

Why it’s perfect:

  • You can see SO much from your car
  • Tons of overlooks + scenic drives
  • Great intro to canyon landscapes for kids

Don’t miss:

  • The Lighthouse formation (iconic!)
  • Scenic drive through the canyon
  • Sunset views (trust me on this one)

Road Trip Queen Tip: Go early or later in the day—Texas heat is no joke.

Colorado Springs, CO

This is one of the best home bases for a road trip—you can do a TON without constantly packing up.

Best Route: Dallas → Amarillo → Raton → Colorado Springs

Drive time: ~10–11 hours
Best for: Variety + easy adventure basecamp

Best Stops:

  • Amarillo – Same as above—easy lunch stop
  • Raton – Scenic mountain views start here

Skip This:

  • Overpacking your itinerary (this is a BASECAMP trip)
  • Trying to do Denver + everything nearby in one trip

Why families love it:

Don’t miss:

  • Pikes Peak Highway
  • Garden of the Gods scenic loop
  • Manitou Springs for a fun stop

Road Trip Queen Tip: This is the kind of place you’ll wish you had one more day, so plan accordingly!

Zion National Park, UT

Yes—it’s a longer drive, but if you’re planning a bigger trip, this one is 100% worth it.

Best Route (2-day drive recommended):

Day 1: Dallas → Amarillo → Albuquerque
Day 2: Albuquerque → Flagstaff → Zion

Drive time: ~ 17 hours (best as part of a longer trip)
Best for: Bucket list scenery

Best Stops:

  • Albuquerque – Perfect overnight stop
  • Flagstaff – Coffee + mountain town vibes

Why it stands out:

  • Some of the most breathtaking views in the U.S.
  • Shuttle system makes it manageable
  • Great options even if you’re not a big hiker

Don’t miss:

  • Riverside Walk
  • Canyon Overlook Trail
  • Scenic shuttle ride through the canyon

Road Trip Queen Tip: Pair this with other Southwest stops to maximize the drive.

Maquoketa Caves State Park, IA

This one completely surprised us—and ended up being one of the most memorable stops we’ve ever done.

Best Route: Dallas → Oklahoma City → Kansas City → Des Moines → Maquoketa

Drive time: ~13 hours
Best for: Unique, unforgettable adventure

Best Stops:

  • Oklahoma City – Easy breakfast or early stop
  • Kansas City – GREAT food stop (worth timing this right)
  • Des Moines – Final stretch break

Best Overnight: Kansas City (perfect halfway point)

Why it’s so cool:

  • You can walk THROUGH caves (yes, really)
  • Narrow passageways + rock formations
  • Feels like a hidden adventure park

Don’t miss:

  • Dancehall Cave (huge + easy to access)
  • The full cave trail loop
  • Exploring multiple cave entrances

Road Trip Queen Tip: Bring a flashlight or headlamp—it makes it way more fun (and easier).

Final Planning Tips

✔️ Start early (beat traffic + maximize day)
✔️ Download maps offline
✔️ Pack snacks = less stops, more time
✔️ Don’t overpack your itinerary

Which Road Trip Should You Pick?

If you want:

  • Easy + relaxing: Fall Creek Falls
  • Short + stunning: Palo Duro Canyon
  • Variety + flexibility: Colorado Springs
  • Bucket list adventure: Zion
  • Something totally different: Maquoketa Caves

You really can’t go wrong—but if you want my honest take…Maquoketa Caves is the one people don’t see coming—and ends up loving the most.

9 Epic Waterfall Hikes Across the U.S. (Family-Friendly Trails + Hidden Gems)

Posted in Alabama, Colorado, Destinations, Grand Teton National Park, Hiking, New Hampshire, Tennessee, United States, Vermont, Waterfalls, WyomingTagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , Leave a comment

Waterfall hikes are some of the most rewarding trails in the United States—short walks with big payoffs, dramatic canyons, and photo ops that stop people in their tracks. Whether you’re planning a national park vacation or road-tripping through small mountain towns, these waterfall hikes deserve a spot on your bucket list.

Below, you’ll find a guide to some of the most breathtaking waterfall trails in the country, including reader favorites like Fall Creek Falls, Stephan’s Gap, Flume Gorge, and more.

1. Fall Creek Falls – Tennessee

Difficulty: Moderate | Length: 0.8 miles round trip

One of the tallest waterfalls in the eastern U.S., Fall Creek Falls State Park offers breathtaking views and multiple trails. The hike to the base and back up is about 0.8 miles and accessible for most hikers. For a more panoramic experience, try the overlook trails.

Why it’s worth it: Incredible viewpoints, kid-friendly overlooks, and one of the most photographed waterfalls in Tennessee.

Read more about Fall Creek Falls with Kids!

2. Stephan’s Gap – Alabama (Callahan Cave Preserve)

Difficulty: Moderate | Length: 1.4 miles

This dramatic, cave-like waterfall pours through a vertical gap in the rock and creates a moody, cinematic scene. It’s a favorite among landscape photographers and adventurers.

Why it’s worth it: Unique setting—not your typical waterfall; perfect for photographers.

Read more about our hike to Stephens Gap Cave!

3. Bingham Falls – Vermont

Difficulty: Easy/Moderate | Length: 0.5 miles

Hidden in the Green Mountains, Bingham Falls is a short but steep hike with a rewarding plunge pool at the bottom. Best visited in the summer, this waterfall is perfect for a quick refreshing stop during a Vermont road trip.

Why it’s worth it: Quick, accessible, and stunning in every season.

4. Flume Gorge – New Hampshire

Difficulty: Easy | Length: 2 miles

A natural wonder in Franconia Notch State Park, Flume Gorge is a family-friendly trail featuring waterfalls, covered bridges, and granite walls. The 2-mile loop is easy to moderate, making it perfect for kids and photographers alike. Although it’s famous for its boardwalks, steep granite walls, and covered bridges, the Flume also features stunning cascades as the Flume Brook flows through the canyon.

Why it’s worth it: Scenic and safe for kids, with tons of photo spots.

5. Fern Falls – Arkansas (Ozark- St. Francis National Forest)

Difficulty: Easy | Length: 1.5 miles

This lesser-known Arkansas gem features a delicate veil of water falling into a mossy grotto. It’s peaceful, quiet, and ideal for families looking for a gentle adventure. Nestled in the Ozarks, Fern Falls is a quieter waterfall destination with scenic hiking trails. The hike is moderate and shaded, making it a great escape on a hot day. Pair it with nearby Hawksbill Crag hike for a full-day adventure.

Why it’s worth it: Great for beginners and one of the most peaceful waterfalls in the region.

6. Hidden Falls – Grand Teton National Park (Wyoming)

Hidden Falls is one of Grand Teton’s most family-friendly waterfall hikes, delivering big views with minimal effort. The trail begins at Jenny Lake—either by boat shuttle or on foot—and gently winds through pines until you hear the roar of the falls. At 100+ feet, Hidden Falls impresses with its powerful cascade framed by rugged granite and lush greenery, making it a perfect stop before continuing on to Inspiration Point.

Why it’s worth it: Stunning mountain views, peaceful lakeside scenery, and a serene waterfall that feels like a hidden gem.

7. Alberta Falls – Rocky Mountain National Park (Colorado)

A quick, scenic hike in Rocky Mountain National Park leads you to Alberta Falls, a beautiful cascade framed by lush forest and rugged mountain peaks. Perfect for a family stroll or a quick nature escape.

Why it’s worth it: Easy access, photogenic scenery, and a refreshing waterfall set in the heart of the Rockies.

8. Cascade Falls – Ouray, Colorado

Just a short walk from downtown Ouray, Cascade Falls offers a dramatic plunge into a narrow canyon, surrounded by towering cliffs and alpine scenery. Perfect for a quick stop or a family-friendly adventure.

Why it’s worth it: Easy access, stunning cliffside views, and a waterfall that captures the charm of Ouray’s rugged beauty.

9. Cedar Falls – Petit Jean State Park (Arkansas)

A moderate hike through lush forest leads to Cedar Falls, one of Arkansas’ most impressive waterfalls, cascading over sandstone cliffs into a serene pool below. Great for families and nature lovers alike.

Why it’s worth it: Scenic forest trails, a powerful waterfall, and one of the most iconic spots in Petit Jean State Park.

Tips for Chasing Waterfalls Across the US:

  • Check trail conditions before you go—some waterfalls are seasonal.
  • Bring layers and water-resistant shoes; trails can be slippery.
  • Pack or wear a swimsuit in case you want to take a dip!
  • Early morning visits help avoid crowds and capture the best light for photos.
  • Consider packing a picnic—many parks have beautiful spots to rest and enjoy the scenery.

Must Have Hiking & Photography Gear

This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a small commission, at no extra charge to you, if you purchase items using any of the links provided. Thank you!

No matter which waterfall you choose, each offers its own unique beauty, adventure, and perfect photo opportunity. From serene forest cascades to dramatic mountain plunges, these hikes are well worth the journey. For more travel tips, waterfall inspiration, and behind-the-scenes adventure, follow me on Instagram @road.trip.queen and join the journey!

Fall Creek Falls with Kids: Adventure, Waterfalls, and Horseback Riding

Posted in Hiking, State Parks, Tennessee, Tips & RecommendationsTagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , 1 Comment

If you’re looking for a family-friendly getaway packed with adventure, stunning scenery, and a little bit of luxury, Fall Creek Falls State Park is a must-visit. We recently took a trip with the kids and stayed at the Lodge at Fall Creek Falls, and let me tell you—it was an unforgettable experience!

Where We Stayed: The Lodge at Fall Creek Falls

Photo from Trip Advisor website

We booked a king suite at the lodge, and it was absolutely worth it. The spacious room, modern amenities, and beautiful views made it the perfect place to relax after a long day of exploring. The kids loved having space to spread out, and I loved the cozy yet upscale feel of the lodge.

Dining at the Lodge

We ate at the restaurant inside the lodge, and the food was great! It’s so convenient to have an on-site dining option, especially after a day of hiking and adventure. The menu had something for everyone, including kid-friendly options, and we left full and happy every time.

Hiking to the Base of Fall Creek Falls

One of the highlights of our trip was hiking down to the base of Fall Creek Falls. It’s a short but steep hike, and when we reached the bottom, the view was breathtaking.

The kids had a blast scrambling over the rocks, and we all got completely soaked from the mist! It was so worth it. If you go, be sure to bring waterproof shoes, a raincoat, and a change of clothes—you’ll thank me later.

Exploring the Other Waterfalls in the Park

While Fall Creek Falls is the star of the show, the park is home to several other waterfalls that are just as stunning and worth visiting.

• Cane Creek Falls – This waterfall is easily accessible and offers a beautiful view from an overlook. There’s also a suspension bridge nearby, which the kids loved crossing!

• Cane Creek Cascades – A short walk from the Nature Center, this cascade is a fun spot where the kids enjoyed splashing in the water. It’s a great place to take a break and let them explore.

• Piney Falls – A bit more off the beaten path, Piney Falls is another scenic waterfall with a dramatic drop. We enjoyed the peacefulness of this spot compared to the more popular areas of the park.

• Rockhouse Falls – Located near Cane Creek Falls, this one is a bit smaller but still beautiful, especially after a good rain.

If you have time, I highly recommend checking out as many waterfalls as possible—each one has its own unique beauty!

Exploring the Overlooks

Fall Creek Falls has some of the best scenic overlooks, and we made it a mission to visit them all. Each one offered a different perspective of the park’s stunning waterfalls, gorges, and forests. The kids loved peering over the railings and taking in the views, and it was a great way to see a lot without too much hiking.

A fun way to view waterfall overlooks is by accessing suspension bridges at Fall Creek Falls. Each one offers an exhilarating way to experience the park’s stunning landscapes. As you cross these swaying bridges, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of lush forests and deep gorges, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. The bridges add a sense of thrill to your hike while providing a unique perspective of the cascading falls and the surrounding beauty. It’s a must-do for anyone visiting the area!

Horseback Riding Outside the Park

For a fun and unique experience, we also went horseback riding. The guided trail ride was a relaxing way to explore the area, and the kids were so excited to ride their own horses. It was a great mix of adventure and calm, and we all agreed it was one of the best parts of our trip.

Tips for Visiting Fall Creek Falls with Kids

  • Stay at the Lodge – The suite was perfect for families, and having a restaurant on-site made meals easy.
  • Bring extra clothes – If you’re hiking to the base of the falls, expect to get wet!
  • Plan for a mix of activities – Between hiking, scenic overlooks, waterfalls, and horseback riding, there’s something for everyone.
  • Check trail difficulty – Some hikes are short and easy, while others can be steep. Know what to expect before heading out with little ones.

Our trip to Fall Creek Falls was an amazing family adventure, and we can’t wait to go back! Have you visited with kids? Let me know your favorite part in the comments!