CUMMINS FALLS STATE PARK

As of June 18, 2019 - The gorge and trail to the gorge at Cummins Falls State Park is closed. The overlook is open. We are aware of a tragic drowning accident that occurred this summer. Please be overly cautious when hiking in the gorge due to the risk of flash flooding. Always check the TN State Parks website, and follow all safety procedures. This trail is not recommended for small children.

For my birthday this year, we took a camping trip to Edgar Evins State Park (discussed in another post) and Cummins Falls State Park. Surprisingly enough, I had never visited Cummins Falls. It was acquired by the TN State Park system in 2011. Cummins Falls is the 8th largest waterfall in Tennessee - 75 feet! It is one of the most popular swimming spots and an awesome hike! You will begin by driving into the parking lot area. There is a playground and fairly nice restroom facilities available. Once you start on the trail, you’ll first come to the overlook. This will be you first and only view of the waterfall until you go down the trail and through the gorge.

There are two routes to the gorger - one is 1 mile and the other is 1.5 miles with a little detour. The trail is super shaded and pleasant to hike with a few switch backs as you get down into the gorge.

Once you hike the, roughly, one mile hike down to the gorge, you’ll come to the river. There are usually many slippery spots along the river, so be careful.

You’ll want to stay along to the trail side of the river for as long as you can until you are forced to cross. You will make two river crossing on the way to the waterfall and two on the way back. We did our first crossing at this image below.

Once you cross the river the first time, you’ll experience some rock scrambling. It doesn’t last too long, so don’t get discouraged!

Eventually, you’ll get to a point where you have to cross the river again. The waterfall is very soon after this second crossing!

After your second river crossing, you’ll hike around a small bend in the river and.. drumrollllllllllll… you’ll see the waterfall!

Cummins Falls is absolutely magnificent. As you hike closer to the falls, depending on the water level, you’ll reach a small clearing to sit and marvel at the gentle giant.

Once you’re ready to head home, turn around and hike out the same way you came in! Be safe, and have a blast!