Window Cliffs

Window Cliffs is one of Middle Tennessee's strangest landforms: Cane Creek doubles back on itself around a 200-foot limestone ridge so narrow that erosion has punched clean through it, leaving open "windows" in the rock spine. Earning the view takes work — the trail drops steeply off the parking ridge, then fords Cane Creek nine times before climbing to the crest, and none of the crossings are bridged. Expect wet feet at the best of times, knee-deep wades in spring, and bring trekking poles and shoes you can soak; the state closes the natural area outright when the creek is in flood, so check Burgess Falls State Park's status before driving out. On top, the path runs along the exposed, unfenced spine of the cliffs with steep drops on both sides, a place for careful feet rather than scrambling kids. Wildflowers along the creek bottoms are excellent in April, and summer hikers should start early since the open cedar glades on the ridge bake in the afternoon.