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01 Feb 2025Updated last time
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Tennessee Waterfalls Road Trip

Tennessee's Majestic Waterfalls: A Road Trip Itinerary

Embark on a journey through the heart of Tennessee, where nature's artistry unfolds in the form of breathtaking waterfalls. This carefully curated road trip will lead you to five of the state's most captivating cascades, each unique in its charm and beauty. Begin your adventure at Fall Creek Falls, the tallest waterfall east of the Mississippi River, nestled within a vast state park offering diverse outdoor activities. Witness the grandeur of water thrashing down a 256-foot drop amidst lush forests.

Continue to Cummins Falls, where the inviting swimming hole at its base promises a refreshing escape during warm days, surrounded by scenic landscapes perfect for photography. Then visit Burgess Falls, a series of impressive cascading falls that afford multiple beautiful view points, ensuring you capture the perfect memory. The journey's next highlight is Twin Falls, within Rock Island State Park, whose twin cascades offer a unique natural spectacle and excellent trails for exploration.

Finally, conclude your expedition at Ozone Falls, a peaceful retreat marked by its stunning solitary drop, perfect for those seeking tranquility and picturesque beauty away from the rush. This road trip promises a harmonious blend of adventure, serenity, and the unspoiled allure of Tennessee's waterfall treasures.


Recommended Activities

  • Trip Point Pin1

    Fall Creek Falls

    Fall Creek Falls is one of the tallest and most scenic waterfalls in the eastern United States, offering visitors breathtaking views and a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, bird watching, and rock climbing.
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    Cummins Falls

    Cummins Falls is a popular spot for swimming and wading, known for its picturesque setting and the natural swimming hole at the base of the falls, making it a perfect destination for a refreshing dip in a natural environment.
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  • Trip Point Pin3

    Burgess Falls

    Burgess Falls is known for its stunning beauty with water cascading over multiple drops, providing excellent opportunities for photography and a network of trails offering various perspectives of the falls and surrounding nature.
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  • Twin Falls is unique for its side-by-side waterfalls that create a mesmerizing spectacle, offering a stunning backdrop within Rock Island State Park, where visitors can enjoy hiking and exploring the diverse ecosystem around the waterfalls.
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    Ozone Falls

    Ozone Falls is a beautiful and serene spot known for its 110-foot plunge and scenic surroundings, making it a perfect site for nature enthusiasts who appreciate wilderness solitude, photography, and short hiking trails.
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Restaurants

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    Fall Creek Falls Restaurant

    3.6

    Fall Creek Falls Restaurant

    Located within Fall Creek Falls State Park, this restaurant offers spectacular views and a menu featuring locally sourced ingredients, making it perfect for a meal amidst nature.
    3.6
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    The Cookeville Depot Museum and Restaurant

    4.7

    The Cookeville Depot Museum and Restaurant

    A quaint dining spot located in a historic train depot, offering a unique experience with vintage decor and a menu of classic American dishes.
    4.7
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    Foglight Foodhouse

    Foglight Foodhouse

    Nestled near Rock Island State Park, this restaurant offers eclectic Southern cuisine with a twist, served in a rustic riverside setting.
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    Express Lunch

    Express Lunch

    Hidden in the heart of Gainesboro, this charming eatery serves up hearty comfort food, ideal for a cozy, small-town dining experience.
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    The Patio Grill

    4.3
    $$$$

    The Patio Grill

    Situated in Crossville, this restaurant offers a casual dining experience with a large outdoor patio, perfect for enjoying their renowned slow-cooked BBQ dishes.
    4.3
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Hotels

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    The Garden Inn Bed & Breakfast

    The Garden Inn Bed & Breakfast

    Located atop the Cumberland Plateau, this cozy B&B offers stunning mountain views, charming gardens, and personalized service, providing a tranquil escape from the everyday.
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    The Sewanee Inn, Tennessee

    4.7

    The Sewanee Inn, Tennessee

    Known for its Southern charm and collegiate backdrop, this inn offers luxurious rooms with rich decor, nestled on the campus of the University of the South.
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    Evins Mill Resort

    4.7

    Evins Mill Resort

    A blend of rustic charm and modern comfort, this resort features beautiful woodland surroundings, private waterfalls, and exceptional dining options.
    4.7
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    Cumberland Mountain State Park Cabins

    4.7

    Cumberland Mountain State Park Cabins

    Stay in one of the charming cabins nestled within the scenic park, surrounded by nature trails and the historic Cumberland Homesteads Tower.
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    Storm Point Lodge

    Storm Point Lodge

    This secluded lodge offers a rustic, log-cabin experience with panoramic views of Center Hill Lake, perfect for a peaceful getaway surrounded by nature.
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Local Events & Happenings

  • Event Icon

    Micah Tyler

    Micah Tyler

    The event will take place at First Free Church in Ballwin.
    Map IconFirst Free Church in Ballwin (52.07 mi)
    Calendar Icon17 Oct 2025
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    Vince Neil

    Vince Neil

    The event will take place at River City Casino & Hotel in Saint Louis.
    Map IconRiver City Casino & Hotel in Saint Louis (53.09 mi)
    Calendar Icon23 Aug 2025
    Picture for Vince Neil
  • Event Icon

    Rumours ATL: A Fleetwood Mac Tribute

    Rumours ATL: A Fleetwood Mac Tribute

    The event will take place at River City Casino & Hotel in Saint Louis.
    Map IconRiver City Casino & Hotel in Saint Louis (53.09 mi)
    Calendar Icon20 Sep 2025
    Picture for Rumours ATL: A Fleetwood Mac Tribute
  • Event Icon

    Extreme

    Extreme

    The event will take place at River City Casino & Hotel in Saint Louis.
    Map IconRiver City Casino & Hotel in Saint Louis (53.09 mi)
    Calendar Icon4 Oct 2025
    Picture for Extreme
  • Event Icon

    Berlin w/ A Flock of Seagulls

    Berlin w/ A Flock of Seagulls

    The event will take place at River City Casino & Hotel in Saint Louis.
    Map IconRiver City Casino & Hotel in Saint Louis (53.09 mi)
    Calendar Icon11 Oct 2025
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  • Event Icon

    Dean Z

    Dean Z

    The event will take place at River City Casino & Hotel in Saint Louis.
    Map IconRiver City Casino & Hotel in Saint Louis (53.09 mi)
    Calendar Icon15 Dec 2025
    Picture for Dean Z
  • Event Icon

    The Newest Olympian is moving to Off Broadway

    The Newest Olympian is moving to Off Broadway

    Due to unforeseen circumstances this show will now take place at Off Broadway. All tickets will be honored.
    Map IconOff Broadway in Saint Louis (57.54 mi)
    Calendar Icon15 Aug 2025
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Music for Your Journey