Scenic Lookout Points
+ things to see
in Greater Cookeville and the Upper Cumberland
With all of the natural waterfalls, state parks and clean lakes, it’s easy to see why the Upper Cumberland is one of the most scenic places in the south. Looking to visit the area?
Here is a list of the some of the Most Scenic Places in the Upper Cumberland.
Cummins Falls
390 Cummins Falls Ln, Cookeville, TN
Named 1 of the 10 best swimming holes in America by Travel and Leisure magazine, this amazing state park is a must see. The falls stand at 75′ high, and it’s noted as the 8th largest waterfall in volume in Tennessee.
Burgess Falls State Park
4000 Burgess Falls Dr, Sparta, TN 38583
Located on the Falling Water River, Burgess Falls is known for its beauty and has become widely popular. The state park houses 4 waterfalls with the largest reaching 135+ feet high.
Paddle, kayak or boat to the bottom of the waterfall via Center Hill Lake or visit the state park and access the very top of the waterfall.
Bee Rock Overlook
1400 Bee Rock Rd, Monterey, TN
A local spot located in Monterey, Tennessee located just off of the interestate. This place offers a stunning panoramic view. Bring a camera! And get that cool Instagram pic.
This is a short and easy hike.
Window Cliffs
8400 Old Cane Creek Rd,
Baxter, TN 38544
I hope you’re not afraid of heights! This is a really cool natural area that entails creeks, a waterfall and 200′ high cliff tops! This is a strenuous roughly 5.4 mile hike.
Virgin Falls
2080 Scotts Gulf Road, Sparta, Tn. 38583
Another huge waterfall, Virgin Falls stands at 110-foot high and located near the Bridgestone Firestone Centennial Wilderness in White County. This is a strenuous 8.7 mile hike. Other waterfalls, a cave and lookout points are also within the Virgin Falls State Natural Area.
Welch’s Point is also located within this area. It’s an easy 0.3 hike with parking.
Rock Island State Park
82 Beach Road Rock Island, TN
Rock Island State Park is a massive park located on the headwaters of Center Hill Lake. The park has several hiking trails with some pretty amazing views. The park includes an Old cotton mill, spring castle, beach & waterfalls.
Martha’ Pretty Point
Virgin Falls State Natural Area
Within the Virgin Falls Area, Martha’s Pretty Point is a pit stop before you reach Virgin Falls.
Northrup Falls
2552 Northrup Falls Rd, Jamestown, TN
Roughly 2 mile hiking trail with 60′ waterfall, bluff views and “rock houses” (shallow, open cave-like structures). Open to the public sunrise to sunset. Parking. Swimming. Pets allowed if leashed at all times.
Sunset Rock
4581-5047 Bockman Way, Sparta, TN
If you are heading to Sparta or Ruby Falls, stop at Sunset Rock Overlook. This is a place we stumbled upon after visiting Welch’s Point.
