4-Day Waterfall Exploration from Crossville to Cookeville, Tennessee

Day 1: Waterfall Hiking Start

Crossville, Tennessee on May 22, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Blue Haven Restaurant

Enjoy a hearty breakfast of Southern classics at this well-loved Crossville spot to fuel up for the day.
USD15, 1h

9:30am

Hiking to Fall Creek Falls State Park

Explore one of the highest waterfalls east of the Mississippi with several trails ranging from short walks to extended hikes showcasing impressive views and cascading falls.
USD15 parking fee, 4h

2:00pm

Lunch at Fall Creek Falls Snack Bar

Have a quick bite with sandwiches and refreshing drinks located inside the park, perfect to recharge after hiking.
USD12, 1h

3:30pm

Visit Piney Falls Trail

Take a moderately easy 2-mile loop to Piney Falls within Fall Creek Falls State Park, featuring beautiful cascades and lush scenery.
Included with park fee, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Red Rooster Café in Crossville

Return to Crossville for dinner at this cozy café offering comfort foods and excellent Southern-style dishes.
USD25, 1.5h
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Day 2: Travel to Cookeville with Waterfalls

Cookeville, Tennessee on May 23, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Crossville Coffee & Crepes

Start your day with fresh crepes and artisan coffee to energize for the drive and exploration ahead.
USD12, 1h

9:00am

Drive from Crossville to Cookeville

Enjoy a scenic 1-hour drive northeast towards Cookeville, passing picturesque Tennessee landscapes.
USD0 (gas not included), 1h

10:30am

Visit Cummins Falls State Park

See the stunning 75-foot Cummins Falls, one of Tennessee’s top waterfalls for swimming and photography with beautiful trails nearby.
USD10 parking fee, 3h

1:30pm

Lunch at Cummins Café

Enjoy casual dining with light fare and refreshing drinks near the park entrance, perfect after waterfall hiking.
USD15, 1h

3:00pm

Visit Burgess Falls State Park

Explore a 2.5-mile loop showcasing multiple falls including the spectacular 136-foot Burgess Falls viewing platform.
Free, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at The Martini Bar & Grill in Cookeville

Dine in a relaxed setting with a menu offering American cuisine and craft cocktails, ideal for unwinding after an active day.
USD30, 1.5h
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Day 3: Local Waterfall Adventures

Cookeville, Tennessee on May 24, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at The Cupboard Cookeville

Savor an excellent breakfast featuring fresh pastries, eggs, and coffee to start the day well.
USD13, 1h

9:30am

Explore Burgess Falls (additional trails)

Return to Burgess Falls for less traversed trails and some birdwatching or quiet time beside cascading waters.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Waterstone Grille

Enjoy upscale American fare with a focus on fresh ingredients in a comfortable atmosphere in Cookeville.
USD25, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Cane Creek Falls and Fall Creek Falls Overlook

Spend the afternoon visiting the less crowded Cane Creek Falls and scenic viewpoints accessible from Cookeville area trails.
Free, 3h

6:30pm

Dinner at On the Square

Wrap up the day with southern-inspired dishes and local specialties in downtown Cookeville.
USD28, 1.5h
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Day 4: Departure and Reflection

Cookeville to Crossville, Tennessee on May 25, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Panevino Pizzeria

Enjoy breakfast pizzas and coffee to start the day with something unique before heading home.
USD15, 1h

9:30am

Leisurely drive back to Crossville

Take a relaxed morning drive back to Crossville, allowing time for any last-minute stops or photo ops.
USD0 (gas not included), 1h

11:00am

Optional visit to Cumberland Mountain State Park

If time permits, stop at this nearby state park to enjoy hiking, picnicking, and its small waterfall before concluding the trip.
USD5 parking fee, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch in Crossville at Old City Burgers

Finish your trip with a casual lunch featuring tasty burgers and local flavors in Crossville.
USD15, 1h
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