Hiking and Swimming at Cummins Falls State Park

Discover the adventure of hiking steep trails, hopping boulders, and wading through rivers to reach Tennessee's eighth-largest waterfall at Cummins Falls State Park.

Last updated: May 2024
  •  

    Free park access, $6 permit fee for entering the gorge.

  •  

    More than 500 Miles from you

  •  

    State Gem: Exceptional experiences within your state that are bucket list-worthy
    Learn more

Description

What's included

Perfect for

For solo
For two
For groups
For families with kids
For parents and grownups
Outdoorsy

Unlock the Ultimate Bucket List

For Adventurers and Explorers

  Epic

  •  All Experience Levels Unlocked
  •  Build and Manage your Bucket List
  •  Exclusive EPIC Deals & Discounts
  •  Gift 3 EPIC Guest Memberships

$2.99/mo

7 days free, cancel any time.
Billed annually

Basic

  •  World-class Experiences Unlocked
  •  Build and Manage your Bucket List

$0/mo

No credit card needed

  TikTok videos

 
 
 

Itinerary

  1. Start at the Visitor Center: Arrive early to secure parking, collect your permit, and plan your route.
  2. Choose Your Route: Decide between the shorter (2-mile) and longer (3-mile) trails to reach the base of Cummins Falls.
  3. Take the Trail: Follow the trail down into the gorge. Be prepared for steep descents, slippery boulders, and water crossings.
  4. Reach the Falls: Follow the river trail, navigating obstacles and crossing the river to reach the 75-foot waterfall.
  5. Enjoy Swimming: With a permit, you can swim in the natural swimming hole at the base of the falls.
  6. Return to the Trailhead: Start your return journey from the base by 5:00 PM in-season to exit by park closing time.

Location

 

390 Cummins Falls Ln, Cookeville, TN 38501

Show directions
 

Packing List

  • Dry bag
  • Small towel
  • Water and snacks
  • Sturdy water shoes with traction
  • Sunglasses
  • Sunscreen
  • Swimsuit
  • Waterproof camera
  • Life jacket (recommended, especially for kids)

  4.7 ● Google reviews

Kate Lovell

2 weeks ago

     

David Danner

2 weeks ago

     

Rob Blume

2 weeks ago

     

Ruth Henry

a month ago

     

Fred Salinas

a month ago

     
Show all 4172 reviews

FAQs

Gallery