Tennessee, renowned for its musical heritage and lively cities, also boasts some of nature’s most breathtaking spectacles. Nestled amidst its vibrant landscapes and rolling hills lies a treasure trove of waterfalls, each narrating its unique tale of beauty.
For those venturing near Cookeville, the experience becomes even more profound. Continue reading as we journey through the top 12 waterfalls near Cookeville, Tennessee, and unravel the allure and activities that surround each.
Cummins Falls

- Distance from Cookeville: 9 miles
- Parking: 390 Cummins Falls Lane Cookeville, TN 38501
- Hike Length: 3 miles
- Hike Difficulty: Moderate
Approximately 15-20 minutes from Cookeville, Cummins Falls is not just a marvel to witness but a testament to nature’s artistry. Cascading from a height of 75 feet, it stands proudly as Tennessee’s eighth-largest waterfall in terms of volume.
The encompassing Cummins Falls State Park is an adventurer’s delight, featuring challenging hiking trails and spots that are perfect for a refreshing swim. History enthusiasts will appreciate that the area has been a favorite spot for over 100 years, serving as a scenic backdrop for numerous social gatherings and events.
Note that Gorge Access Permits are required if you would like to enter the gorge or access the base of the waterfall. Additionally, the gorge is prone to flash flooding, so be sure to check the weather forecast before you visit.
Burgess Falls

- Distance from Cookeville: 12 miles
- Parking: 4000 Burgess Falls Drive Sparta, TN 38583
- Hike Length: Varies
- Hike Difficulty: Moderate
A mere 25 minutes from Cookeville, the mighty Burgess Falls State Park provides 4 different waterfalls you can view. The largest is a sight to behold as it cascades 136 feet into the depths below. The powerful descent over a stair-stepped limestone has carved the gorge over eons.
The adjacent Falling Water River is a hotspot for fishing enthusiasts. For those looking for a serene spot to relax, the nearby areas offer picturesque picnic locations. The falls, with their compelling beauty, have also served as a backdrop for numerous films and documentaries.
Virgin Falls

- Distance from Cookeville: 37 miles
- Parking: 2080 Scotts Gulf Road, Sparta, Tn. 38583
- Hike Length: 9 miles
- Hike Difficulty: Strenuous
Located about an hour south of Cookeville, Virgin Falls is the embodiment of nature’s magic. The water plummets over 110 feet and then intriguingly disappears underground, only to re-emerge downstream. This mystifying hydrologic behavior is due to the presence of a cave both at the top and bottom of the falls.
The surrounding Virgin Falls State Natural Area, spread over 1,157 acres, is a haven for campers. Its dense forests, punctuated with other smaller waterfalls, create a mesmerizing backdrop for both avid hikers and those seeking a tranquil escape.
Twin Falls

- Distance from Cookeville: 33 miles
- Parking: 82 Beach Road Rock Island, TN 38581
- Hike Length: 0.3 miles
- Hike Difficulty: Easy
Situated within Rock Island State Park, about 45-minutes from Cookeville, Twin Falls is unique. Rather than being formed from a river or stream, it owes its existence to the damming of the Caney Fork River.
This man-made wonder showcases water spilling from the rocky cliffs and caverns. Beyond the falls, Rock Island State Park is an outdoor enthusiast’s playground, with activities ranging from boating to hiking. The park also offers cabins, allowing visitors to extend their stay amidst nature.
Ozone Falls

- Distance from Cookeville: 47 miles
- Parking: 14563 TN-1, Ozone, TN 37854
- Hike Length: .75 miles
- Hike Difficulty: Easy
Driving 45 minutes west from Cookeville leads to the majestic Ozone Falls. With a sheer drop of 110 feet, the waterfall is surrounded by a unique sandstone and limestone rock formation, making it a geologist’s dream.
The pool at the base of the falls, with its turquoise hue, invites visitors for a refreshing dip. Owing to its stunning beauty, Ozone Falls was chosen as a filming location for the 1994 movie “The Jungle Book.”
Fall Creek Falls

- Distance from Cookeville: 48 miles
- Parking: 2009 Village Camp Road Spencer, TN 38585
- Hike Length: Varies
- Hike Difficulty: Moderate
Tennessee’s most visited state park, located about an hour north of Cookeville, houses the impressive Fall Creek Falls. At 256 feet, it stands as one of the highest waterfalls in the eastern United States. There are multiple trail options from the visitor center that you can take to get a view of Fall Creek Falls.
The park, spanning 26,000 acres, is a hub of activities. From golfing to zip-lining, and even horseback riding, there’s an adventure awaiting every visitor, including Cane Creek Falls and as well which we discuss next.
Cane Creek Falls

- Distance from Cookeville: 48 miles
- Parking: 2009 Village Camp Road Spencer, TN 38585
- Hike Length: 0.4 miles
- Hike Difficulty: Moderate
Also nestled within the vast expanse of Fall Creek Falls State Park, about an hour from Cookeville, the 85-foot Cane Creek Falls is an oasis of serenity. Overlooking the falls is the park’s nature center, which offers interpretative programs and exhibits on the region’s rich biodiversity.
The nearby Cane Creek Gorge offers panoramic vistas and showcases the region’s unique geological features.
Piney Falls

- Distance from Cookeville: 48 miles
- Parking: 760-1998 Firetower Rd, Grandview, TN 37337
- Hike Length: 2 miles
- Hike Difficulty: Moderate
The two-tiered Piney Falls, located in an 818-acre natural area in Rhea County about an hour from Cookeville, is an embodiment of nature’s grandeur. With the upper falls stretching 80 feet and the lower ones spanning 40 feet, it’s a sight to behold although not as impressive as the much larger Fall Creek Falls.
The encompassing state natural area, designated a Natural National Landmark, boasts of old-growth forests and many diverse hiking trails.
Suter Falls & Horsepound Falls

- Distance from Cookeville: 65 miles
- Parking: Collins W Access Trail, Gruetli-Laager, TN 37339
- Hike Length: 4.5 miles
- Hike Difficulty: Moderate
About an hour and 15 minutes from Cookeville, within the confines of the Savage Gulf State Natural Area, the 50-foot Suter Falls and accompanying HoursePound Falls offer an ambiance of tranquility. The falls, with their cascading beauty, are surrounded by rugged cliffs and lush greenery.
For those looking to explore further, the park offers extensive hiking opportunities, revealing hidden caves, arches, and the rich flora and fauna of the region.
Stinging Fork Falls

- Distance from Cookeville: 70 miles
- Parking: 4635 Shut in Gap Rd, Spring City, TN 37381
- Hike Length: 2 miles
- Hike Difficulty: Moderate
This 30-foot high gem, located about an hour and 20 minutes from Cookeville, offers more than just a visual treat. The journey to the falls through the Stinging Fork Trails is equally captivating, offering 2 miles of dense woodlands and spring wildflowers. The falls culminate in a serene pool, ideal for a relaxing swim in the warmer months.
Rutledge Falls

- Distance from Cookeville: 75 miles
- Parking: 1276 Rutledge Falls Rd, Tullahoma, TN 37388, USA
- Hike Length: 0.8 miles
- Hike Difficulty: Easy
Situated about an hour and a half from Cookeville, Rutledge Falls, with its cascading waters, offers a tranquil setting perfect for a quick day trip.
Beyond its natural beauty, the area surrounding the falls is steeped in history, having been a prominent location for baptisms. Numerous trails wind through the region, punctuated with spots perfect for a leisurely picnic.