- Hike
Fall Creek Falls is a free entry state park in Spencer, Tennessee. The park has many hiking trails and several waterfalls including Fall Creek Falls, Piney Falls, Cane Creek Falls, and Cane Creek Cascades. Max and I hiked Paw Paw Trail, which was a three-mile loop. There were multiple spurs off the trail leading to outlooks with gorgeous views. We went on a very hot (more than 90 degree) June day, so this trail was tough for Max. He needed many water breaks. The trail is mostly shaded, but the only place for him to swim was in the river at the very beginning of the trail. I do wish I chose a trail with more water features along it so that he could cool off. However, after the hike and only a very short walk from the trailhead is a swimming area below the waterfall. Behind the nature center and down some wooden stairs, you will find access to a very popular and crowded swimming spot. The waterfall pours into the river and you can find dogs and humans cooling off both in the river and the waterfall. Max was relieved to have a place to swim and cool off after our hot hike. He even made a doggy friend in the water.
2. Stay
While there are a limited number of cabins in the state park that are designated as pet-friendly, for a way cooler experience you want to stay at Highland Cottage, located on Little Tail Farms. Only twenty minutes away in Dunlap, this adorable tiny home sits in a serene field surrounded by animal pastures. When Max and I arrived, we were greeted at the fence by goats, cows, and a donkey! They were all so curious about us. This tiny home has all the amenities you need including a tiny kitchen, bathroom, living room, and bed upstairs in the loft. There is also a fire pit outside. But here is the best part: your stay includes a free visit to the farm to meet all the farm animals! I got to pet baby goats, puppies, sheep, dogs, and more! You get to actually enter the pen where they all live together. The cottage provides little treat baggies so that you can feed the animals. This was by far the coolest place I have stayed, but also remote and peaceful. I only stayed one night, but I wish I stayed longer. You can check them out on instagram @littletailfarms
