At one given point I felt life didn’t give me enough. I never gave enough to myself was ultimately the reality. So I took a leap and did something I never do. I drove out about an hour to one of my new favorite places for trails and just to cool down. Cummins Falls in Cookville, TN.
Upon arrival, there is a campsite on one side of the road and the way to the falls and its trails on the other. Usually, it gets so packed on weekends that people have to start parking in the fields just beyond the gravel lot nearest the trails. The first time I went I believe it was a Thursday and wasn’t so busy, it was still rather peaceful by myself despite other people.
The trails to the overlook of the falls are wide enough for through and through traffic going both ways. All amongst the trees and very shaded, there are a few different ways to go to get there but all the paths connect. Once you reach the overlook, usually you’ll expect to see others taking pictures of the falls below (much like my selfie above). It’s a long way down, despite wood railing, still watch your step, the area is a bit sloped from rain and such. It’s a wonderful view, if you have an issue with heights, I don’t recommend looking down.
Now the other side of the trails will lead you down to the river, which you have to walk down to get to the falls. Be careful on these trails, they are quite narrow, are often wet and very steep and there is usually nothing to grab onto. This way is also very shaded, and only occasionally can you grab a tree. Also as you are going down, people are coming up. Water shoes are highly recommended! You will get wet even if you try and squeeze the edges of the river. Plus, trust me, on a hot Tennessee day you will love being in the river, most parts are shallow to walk through, some parts you can submerge yourself in. There is also most definitely fish throughout the river and around the falls as well.
Between the trail down and the river bed, it’s about a mile to the falls. Once there, there is a small lip nearest the swimming hole, which is often used as a place to jump off into the deepest parts. Above that are a few more ledges and the falls itself. This is where water shoes come in handy, especially if you wanna climb up the slippery rock to the falls. Yes, you will slip if you don’t have proper footing. Luckily people are very helpful in pointing out the best places to pull yourself up if not help you get there too. Kinda like a buddy system that everyone just becomes a part of. No one wants to watch you get hurt.
The falls themselves are very, very loud and pretty powerful. You can also climb behind the falls on a super small ledge and enjoy the waterfall from there. It is very mossy and has a lot of drips, so if this doesn’t trip you out you will enjoy yourself just fine. Also, keep in mind, others will have the same idea so you may end up with a new friend or two. Besides the main waterfall is some smaller, runoff falls. These are really nice to stand under and just take in the water. Almost like you’re in a movie and bathing in the falls, this would be like the perfect shower.
Everything about this place is wonderful. I have found many shells and cool stones here as well. Speaking of stone, there are large boulder-like rocks at the edge of the fall which if you desired, you could perfectly use these rocks for sun-bathing. I also recommend these more, since the tiny beach area is often occupied by children and families. So if you want a little more peace, these are perfect. Also, so far with my visits, I have brought backpacks full of things and no one has messed with my things or even the water containers I bring with. Most people are there simply to have a great time.
Well, if you ever find yourself in Cookville, TN, be sure to check out Cummins Falls. It’s a wonderful place and super great to relax in the cool waters. Or just have a casual hike. Excellent place for families and small groups, or large groups if you are willing.
**The pictures from above have been edited for the clarity in detail of the falls(yes I know they kinda suck lol), also these pictures are a mix from the two trips I have taken.**
