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.
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
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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.
What's included
Perfect for
For solo 
For two 
For groups 
For families with kids 
For parents and grownups 
Outdoorsy 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.
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
Wobblin Bob
3 months ago
This is a good time for everyone! The water crossings give you plenty to do as you make your way to the base of the falls, and the view during golden hour is a memorable experience! Pet friendly too, huge bonus points for that!Jay Holland
7 months ago
Beautiful waterfall! Has several ledges, you can walk in/ on it... Great swimming hole!!! The hike up the gorge to the waterfall is pretty strenuous (requires a permit), but well worth it! Wear shorts and water shoes if your going down in the gorge, you have to wade up the creek, you will get wet. Their is an overlook trail that is easy and pretty short, that overlooks the falls. It has a nice view, and some tables to picnic on or rest. The overlook trail is handicap accessible. Has a park office to get permits, and souvenirs, or a drink.1dutchmaster1
2 months ago
Was a great time. Well maintained place. Beautiful views. And I could get my furr baby out of the house. Dog friendly. Just don't bring if not social cause was a lot of dogs.katherine Hotchkiss
6 months ago
If you're passing through Cookeville,TN and have an extra hour to spend I'd definitely recommend Cummins Falls for a quick 30 min walk in and out to the Falls Overlook. If you have more time you can venture down to the Gorge Floor..We were limited on time this day so we walked the path to the Falls Overlook which was an easy .05 mile stroll through the woods to a concreted overlook area where you can view the beautiful falls! We even witnessed a proposal while we viewing the Falls! 🫶 Definitely worth the visit and planning our next trip with more time to the explore the Gorge Floor.Angela Khan-Norton
7 months ago
Hiking is new to so finding easy to moderate trails are important to me. Love this park as I was able to walk to the overlook to the waterfall very easily, I was even able to take an extra short hike and I made it! I love that I saw so many families here, encouraging their kids to be outdoors and enjoy nature.
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