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Cookeville, Tennessee
The 10 Best Waterfalls Near Cookeville, Tennessee

The 10 Best Waterfalls Near Cookeville, Tennessee

The region surrounding Cookeville, Tennessee, is rich with natural beauty, making it an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. A key feature of this landscape is its abundance of stunning waterfalls, which range from towering cascades to serene, flowing falls surrounded by lush forest. Exploring these waterfalls offers an opportunity to engage in invigorating hikes, take awe-inspiring photographs, and find a tranquil escape in nature. Whether you’re a dedicated hiker, a family looking for a memorable day out, or someone seeking the peace that comes from being near flowing water, the waterfalls near Cookeville are an inviting destination.

about matthew
Updated August 15, 2023
Hey there! I'm Matthew, I'm a passionate traveler who loves to explore the US with my family. I'm excited to share my experiences and tips on how to make the most of your trips while traveling in the US.
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Waterfalls Near Cookeville Tennessee
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1. Cummins Falls

9 Miles from Cookeville

Cummins Falls

Cummins Falls is a dramatic and picturesque waterfall in Cummins Falls State Park. It is Tennessee’s eighth largest waterfall in volume and is 75 feet high. A popular spot for hiking and swimming, though accessing the base of the falls requires a strenuous hike.

Why We Recommend

Cummins Falls is a picturesque waterfall in Tennessee that offers a rewarding and adventurous experience, complete with a strenuous but worthwhile hike that leads to a stunning swimming spot where visitors can play in the waterfall. While the journey to the falls involves multiple creek crossings and navigating slippery rocks, it is part of the adventure that visitors of various ages enjoy, and there are well-maintained outlook points for admiring the waterfall’s beauty; proper footwear and caution are advised for a safe and enjoyable visit.

See what people are saying in their Google Reviews.

Difficulty Level: Difficult

Reaching the base of this 75-foot high waterfall requires a strenuous and sometimes slippery hike.

2. Burgess Falls

13 Miles from Cookeville

Burgess Falls

Found in Burgess Falls State Park, this massive waterfall drops approximately 136 feet into a deep gorge. The park offers several overlooks of the falls and the cascades downstream, each providing remarkable views that highlight the sheer power and beauty of flowing water.

Why We Recommend

Burgess Falls is a stunning natural destination, offering visitors the opportunity to kayak to the bottom of an absolutely breathtaking waterfall, with a scenic and easy 2-mile paddle route from the well-equipped Cane Hollow boat launch. In addition to kayaking, visitors can enjoy a short and accessible trail leading to spectacular views from above the falls, providing a perfect and invigorating break for road-trippers or day visitors staying at a nearby hotel.

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Difficulty Level: Intermediate

Burgess Falls State Park offers several overlooks of the falls, with a moderately strenuous 1.5-mile roundtrip River Trail/Service Road Loop to see the various falls within the park.

3. Twin Falls

33 Miles from Cookeville

Twin Falls

Located in Rock Island State Park, Twin Falls was created by a TVA water project. Despite its man-made origins, these falls are visually stunning and can be viewed from several easy-to-access overlooks within the park.

Why We Recommend

Twin Falls is an awe-inspiring natural attraction, offering a remarkable up-close experience where visitors can feel the refreshing spray of the falls, especially enjoyable on a hot day. Perfect for a family outing, the site features an easy and scenic walk along the river, with ample parking available, and even during busy times, the area is spacious enough to comfortably accommodate visitors. Whether you stick to the main trail or venture towards the shoreline across from the falls for an incredible view, it’s an experience not to be missed.

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Difficulty Level: Easy

Twin Falls can be viewed from several easy-to-access overlooks within the park, making it accessible for all ages and fitness levels.

4. Ozone Falls

35 Miles from Cookeville

Ozone Falls

With a dramatic 110-foot plunge, Ozone Falls is nestled within its own State Natural Area. Its dramatic drop and surrounding rock bluffs make it a breathtaking spot that has also caught the attention of Hollywood—it was a filming location for the 1994 movie “The Jungle Book.”

Why We Recommend

Ozone Falls is a stunning natural attraction, offering an easily accessible view from the top, as well as a more adventurous, rocky hike down to the base of the falls for those seeking a closer experience with this magnificent waterfall. Visitors can enjoy the extraordinary opportunity to swim at the bottom of the falls, creating a surreal and unforgettable experience akin to those found in exotic destinations or movie scenes, making Ozone Falls a must-visit location. However, caution is advised when navigating the area, as the rocks can be slippery, especially after rain.

See what people are saying in their Google Reviews.

Difficulty Level: Intermediate

The falls are within Ozone Falls State Natural Area and can be reached via a relatively short but rugged and rocky trail. Proper footwear is recommended.

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5. Fall Creek Falls

36 Miles from Cookeville

Fall Creek Falls

As one of the highest waterfalls in the eastern United States, the 256-foot Fall Creek Falls is the centerpiece of the state park that bears its name. With extensive hiking trails, picnic areas, and camping sites, this park offers a full outdoor experience beyond its spectacular falls.

Why We Recommend

Fall Creek Falls is an exceptional destination for nature enthusiasts, offering clear and refreshing waters that are perfect for cooling off on a hot summer day. The park features a spacious camping area, designated picnic spots, and multiple swimming areas, making it an ideal location for family outings. In addition to the natural beauty of the breathtaking waterfalls, visitors can enjoy an array of hiking trails—ranging from moderate overlook paths to more adventurous routes—that are well-suited for both casual hikers and those seeking a more challenging trek.

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Difficulty Level: Difficult

Reaching the base of Fall Creek Falls involves a steep and strenuous descent.

6. Cane Creek Falls

36 Miles from Cookeville

Cane Creek Falls

Also situated within Fall Creek Falls State Park, Cane Creek Falls is an 85-foot waterfall offering stunning views that can be appreciated from an overlook or after a rewarding hike down into the gorge.

Why We Recommend

Cane Creek Falls is a stunning natural attraction that is accessible for most ages and abilities, featuring only minor rock scrambling for those looking to explore further. Visitors can experience the dramatic beauty of the falls, whether they choose an adventurous approach, descending via a steep ravine with the help of a cable, or opt for a more leisurely experience, enjoying excellent views from a designated area near the visitor’s center. In addition to the falls, the park offers a fantastic Nature Center and an exciting swinging bridge, enhancing the visit for all who come.

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Difficulty Level: Intermediate

Cane Creek Falls can be steep and involves a set of stairs but offers stunning views.

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7. Stinging Fork Falls

55 Miles from Cookeville

Stinging Fork Falls

A beautiful 30-foot waterfall located in the Stinging Fork Falls Natural Area. This waterfall is part of a 783-acre natural area that is located adjacent to the Cumberland Trail State Park.

Why We Recommend

Stinging Fork Falls is a beautiful destination, especially after some rainfall, when the falls are at their most vibrant. The hike to the falls is about 1 mile from the parking area, and though it may be mildly strenuous for some, it rewards visitors with a refreshing water hole for swimming at the bottom, characterized by its crystal clear waters. Make sure to bring bug spray for a more comfortable experience and follow the marked trail to enjoy the scenic journey to the falls.

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Difficulty Level: Intermediate

The hike is a 1.5-mile round-trip on a trail rated as moderate.

8. Piney Falls

70 Miles from Cookeville

Piney Falls

Protected within Piney Falls State Natural Area, this 80-foot waterfall is known for its unique geological formations and the pristine, old-growth forest that surrounds it.

Why We Recommend

Upper Piney Falls offers a stunning and serene hiking experience, with a trail that is mildly strenuous but manageable, and rewards visitors with breathtaking scenery. Following rainfall, visitors can enjoy the waterfall in its full glory and take advantage of a swimming hole at the bottom, which usually features clear and inviting waters, making it a perfect spot to cool off during a warm day.

See what people are saying in their Google Reviews.

Difficulty Level: Intermediate

Piney Falls State Natural Area offers a 2-mile round trip trail to the falls that is rated as moderate with some uneven terrain.

9. Rutledge Falls

76 Miles from Cookeville

Rutledge Falls

Rutledge Falls flows over a 40-foot high rock ledge into a deep, clear pool. Although privately owned, the owners generously allow visitors to enjoy this natural wonder, making it a favorite spot for both swimmers and photographers.

Why We Recommend

Rutledge Falls is a perfect escape on a hot Tennessee summer day, featuring a crystal-clear river that remains cool year-round, making it an ideal spot for a refreshing swim or adventurous rock jumping. The walk to the falls is short and scenic, albeit rocky and downhill, making it accessible for most visitors, but potentially challenging for strollers or those with mobility issues.

See what people are saying in their TripAdvisor Reviews.

Difficulty Level: Easy

The trail to the falls is short and relatively easy, though it can be slippery near the falls.

10. Suter Falls

89 Miles from Cookeville

Suter Falls

Found within the Savage Gulf State Natural Area, Suter Falls drops 50 feet and is a highlight of the Savage Day Loop, a trail that offers an exceptional wilderness hiking experience.

Why We Recommend

Suter Falls offers a moderately challenging hike through rocky and wet terrain, leading adventurers into an enchanting environment marked by picturesque waterfalls and captivating caves. While the initial hike to Suter Falls is not lengthy, more avid hikers have the option to extend their journey to Horsepound Falls for a longer and equally rewarding experience.

See what people are saying in their Google Reviews.

Difficulty Level: Difficult

Suter Falls is part of the Savage Day Loop, a trail that offers a more challenging wilderness hiking experience due to its length and rugged terrain.

About the Author
about matthew
Matthew Mellinger
Hey there! I'm Matthew, and I'm a passionate traveler who loves to explore the US with my family of four. I'm excited to share my experiences and tips on how to make the most of your trips while traveling in the US.

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