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

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Free park access, $6 permit fee for entering the gorge.
More than 500 Miles from you
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Description

Cummins Falls State Park in Cookeville, Tennessee, offers an adventurous experience centered around its 75-foot waterfall and the Blackburn Fork State Scenic River. This day-use park spans 306 acres and is ideal for those seeking outdoor adventure. The main attraction is the Cummins Falls hike, which involves a steep descent into the gorge, crossing slippery boulders, and wading through the river to reach the epic swimming hole at the base of the falls. You'll also find scenic overlooks and picnic areas. To access the base of the waterfall, you need a permit, but the park is open for free to enjoy its overlooks and land trails.

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Itinerary

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

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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

Fun, challenging trail that leads down into a gorge and up a river to an impressive waterfall with a swimming hole. Leashed dogs are allowed on the gorge floor. We spent all day on this trip and soaked it all in. Advance tickets are recommended as there is limited capacity.

The hike down is steep and you will have to navigate the rocks and cross low water at points to get to the falls (good water shoes recommended). The hike back up is strenuous. But it is worth it. Amazing pool and amazing falls!!! Children under 13 (or those that cannot swim well) must wear a life preserver which are provided near the falls. There are no amenities or services at the falls so backpack what you need in.

Permit required to enter falls area and there are Rangers and staff checking permits along the way. Short hike to the falls. Get there early as it fills up after lunch. Several wading pools along the stream to the fall. My family and I enjoyed swimming in the swimming hole below the fall, climbing onto and jumping off of the fall. There are limited spots to 'set up' around the falls. I suggest eating lunch prior to or after visiting the fall and bring water and a snack to the fall itself. We spent 3 hours at the falls. Dogs are allowed on the hike and at the falls area.

The falls themselves are very nice Bring river shoes they are must . There is a cost to go down to the gorge and you must walk through the river maybe a half a mile. The current on the river can be swift and deep in places especially for small children and some older adults The gorge can be closed often because of swift rising water that comes with heavy rains There is a limit of 200 per day at the gorge . There’s a crowd here especially on the hot days. If you are looking to enjoy the river this may be a good option. If you’re looking to hike and enjoying that’s less crowded there may be other options

The park offers an enjoyable hiking experience. It maintains a high standard of cleanliness. Entry to view the waterfall is subject to a fee. I would advise wearing appropriate water shoes, as you will need to wade through water to reach the waterfall.

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