Cummins Falls State Park is located about twelve miles northwest of Cookeville’s town center. Renowned for its stunning 75-foot waterfall, which cascades into a large swimming hole, the park attracts thousands of visitors annually, mostly from Tennessee and surrounding states. Since 2020, a Gorge Access Permit ($7.00 as of 2025) is required to hike down into the gorge and continue on to the base of the waterfall. The trail is “rugged and steep with uneven terrain”. There is significant elevation drop to the gorge, and getting to the waterfall includes walking along the rocky riverbed, four shallow water crossings across the river, and navigating across boulders and other obstacles. “These are not improved trails.” The permit system was implemented to help manage the growing number of visitors while maintaining the park’s natural beauty and facilities. Permits can be purchased for a specific day at the Park Website. In addition to hiking and swimming at the waterfall, there are several other good trails in the park.
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