Cummins Falls
Swimming hole in Cookeville, Tennessee · Waterfall
Cummins Falls is a falls swimming hole. It is at 390 Cummins Falls Ln, Cookeville, TN. Access is free. Best season: Late spring to early fall (May through September) offers the best conditions for swimming.
Typical season: Late spring to early fall (May through September) offers the best conditions for swimming
About Cummins Falls
Near Cookeville in Tennessee, Cummins Falls offers a straightforward outdoor swim on Blackburn Fork.
Fed by the cold, clear waters of Blackburn Fork, this stunning 75-foot two-tiered waterfall plunges and cascades into one of the most celebrated .
Getting here takes effort. And that effort is exactly what makes arriving feel like a reward. The Setting and the Hike The journey to Cummins Falls is part of . A roughly 2.5-mile round-trip trail winds through a landscape rich with wildflowers, hardwood forest, and the sounds of moving water. The hike is rated moderate to challenging: you'll navigate a river crossing and a steep final descent using a fixed rope to reach the gorge floor. Wear shoes you don't mind getting wet, and take your time on that descent. The footing can be slippery, and the anticipation builds with every step. Around you, the forest hums with wildlife; this corridor along Blackburn Fork is a living ecosystem, and you may spot songbirds, box turtles, or the flash of a kingfisher over the water. When you finally emerge at the base of the falls, the sight stops you cold. In the best possible way.
Swim at your own risk at Cummins Falls. Check conditions after rain and respect any posted closures.
Key facts
Structured details for trip planning — verify access and fees with the land manager before you visit.
- Address
- 390 Cummins Falls Ln, Cookeville, TN 38501
- Water type
- Falls
- Water body
- Blackburn Fork
- Fee
- Free
- Nearest town
- Cookeville
- State
- Tennessee
- Coordinates
- 36.24940, -85.57170
- Best season
- Late spring to early fall (May through September) offers the best conditions for swimming. For fall foliage and cooler hikes, visit in October. Avoid during or after heavy rains due to potential flooding risks.
- Access difficulty
- Moderate to challenging. Requires a 2.5-mile round-trip hike with a river crossing and a steep descent using a rope.
- Parking
- Designated area
- Lifeguard
- Present (seasonal)
- Camping
- Nearby there are several camping areas in the National Forest. (At North River Campground, there is a small hole to cool off in behind site #8.)
- Activities
- Swimming
- Facilities
- No on-site facilities. You should bring their own water, snacks, and supplies. Nearest facilities are in Cookeville, about 13 miles away.
- Last verified
- May 12, 2026
The experience
- Best time to visit Late spring to early fall (May through September) offers the best conditions for swimming. For fall foliage and cooler hikes, visit in October. Avoid during or after heavy rains due to potential flooding risks.
- Access Moderate to challenging. Requires a 2.5-mile round-trip hike with a river crossing and a steep descent using a rope.
- Facilities No on-site facilities. You should bring their own water, snacks, and supplies. Nearest facilities are in Cookeville, about 13 miles away.
- Camping nearby Nearby there are several camping areas in the National Forest. (At North River Campground, there is a small hole to cool off in behind site #8.)
Highlights & features
- 75-foot two-tiered waterfall
- Cool, clear swimming hole
- Scenic 2.5-mile hike
- Abundant wildlife and plant life
- Top-rated swimming spot in the U.S.
- Recognized as one of America's best swimming holes
- Two-tiered waterfall with distinct plunge and cascade
- Part of Tennessee's rich ecological and cultural history
How to get there
Cummins Falls lies in Tennessee near Cookeville. Use these driving notes as a starting point and confirm road conditions before you go. Cummins Falls is a beautiful wild spot located near Cookeville, Tennessee. Use these driving notes to reach the : Driving Directions: Bring water, sunscreen, and gear for a primitive swim day. Weekends and holidays can draw more visitors. Check local updates on access and water levels before you leave home.
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From Interstate 40 (I-40)
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Take Exit 286 for Cookeville.
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Turn onto State Route 135 North (South Willow Avenue) and continue through Cookeville.
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Turn onto West 12th Street (State Route 290)
As you drive on State Route 135 North, look for West 12th Street (State Route 290). Turn left onto West 12th Street and follow it out of town. Drive on State Route 290: Stay on State Route 290 for about 10 miles. You will reach an intersection with Cummins Mill Road. There is a lone gas station at this intersection, which serves as a helpful landmark.
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Turn onto Cummins Mill Road
Turn right onto Cummins Mill Road. Continue on this road for about 3.5 miles. Look for Parking: As you drive, you will descend into a small valley. There are no official signs marking Cummins Falls, but you will notice a wide, paved shoulder on the left side of the road. This is the designated parking area.
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Trailhead and Hiking Directions: Trailhead Location
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The trail begins directly from the road near the parking area. Hike to the Overlook
Follow the trail down to the overlook, which provides a scenic view of the falls. Switchback to the River: Continue on the trail as it descends in a series of switchbacks to the river. The total hiking distance is about 2.5 miles round trip.
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Cross the River
Wade across the river at a shallow point. The water is typically ankle-deep, but exercise caution depending on recent weather conditions. Find the Ridge Trail: After crossing the river, look for a trail that begins with a steep scramble up to the ridge top. Use the Rope Descent: Follow the ridge trail for a few minutes until you see a rope. Use the rope to safely descend back down to the river. Walk Upstream to the : Once you reach the river, walk upstream to the . This final approach takes about 15 minutes and is well worth the effort. Additional Tips: Wear sturdy, water-friendly footwear as the trail and river crossings can be slippery. Bring plenty of water and sunscreen, as the hike involves some exposed areas. Be mindful of your surroundings and follow all posted safety guidelines. Have a safe visit to Cummins Falls!
Plan your visit
Cummins Falls works well as a day trip from Cookeville. Stock up in town, then head to the water with food, water, and sun protection. Combine the swim with camping at Walls Of Jericho or browse more Tennessee waterfall spots in our directory. For the full list in Tennessee, see our state directory.
Access & fees
This is an unofficial natural area. There is no entry fee, but also no maintained facilities, signage, or services. Parking is on a wide roadside shoulder. The trail is rugged and requires wading and scrambling. Access can be dangerous during or after heavy rain due to swift water.
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What to pack for Cummins Falls
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Frequently asked questions
Can you swim at Cummins Falls?
Yes. Cummins Falls near Cookeville in TN has waterfall / cascade pools on Blackburn Fork used for swimming. Rocks are slippery and there are no lifeguards at informal access.
Is Cummins Falls free?
Access is generally free (fee listed as “No”). Confirm any parking or day-use rules on site, and pack out trash.
How do you get to Cummins Falls?
Cummins Falls is in TN within day-trip range of Cookeville. Use a current map for the put-in or park entrance; cell service can be limited at remote spots.
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Map & location
Culture & history
Once home to a gristmill operated by the Cummins family in the 1800s, the site reflects the area's historical significance in early Tennessee industry.
Conservation
Cummins Falls is a natural treasure that benefits from visitor awareness. Practice Leave No Trace principles, avoid littering, and respect local wildlife and plant life.
Sources & updates
Spotted outdated access, fees, or safety info? Send a correction with the page URL — we review every submission.