Accessibility at Cummins Falls
Warning Alert
Before You Visit Cummins Falls
A Gorge Access Permit is required to visit the base of the waterfall. The base of the waterfall is only accessible on fair-weather days.
Cummins Falls is a natural area with inherent safety risks.
- The gorge is prone to flash flooding.
- Changes in water levels in the gorge can result in the sudden closure of trail access to the base of the falls.
- Rain can significantly affect the amount of water over the falls, so visitors are encouraged to check the weather forecast in the days leading up to their visit. Even if it isn't raining at the park, rain upstream can raise water levels in a matter of minutes.
- Please remain aware of your surroundings during your visit, and exit the base if you notice water volume increasing.
You should comply with the park’s safety instructions. We recommend that children 5 and under not go to the falls. Children 12 and under must wear life vests at falls and be accompanied by an adult.
Visiting the gorge is a very strenuous, physically demanding activity. Visiting the waterfall will require:
- Strenuous Hiking
- Swimming or wading through water
- Climbing Rocks
- Crossing Slippery Rocks
For the most up-to-date information, please check the Cummins Falls State Park Facebook page. On-site park staff will post photos and trail closure alerts on that page.
Accessibility Road Under Maintenance
Due to maintenance, our accessible parking at the Waterfall Overlook has restricted access. However, our all-terrain wheelchairs are still operational for those who would like to put in a request either online or on a first-come basis onsite. We apologize for the inconvenience.
Cummins Falls Accessibility
At Tennessee State Parks, we serve a variety of visitors including individuals with physical disabilities and those who may face other barriers to outdoor recreation. With a focus on accessibility, we continually strive to enhance our parks to better accommodate all visitors. Learn more about accessible features, amenities, programs, and services that Cummins Falls State Park has to offer.
All-Terrain Wheelchairs
All-terrain wheelchairs are specialized wheelchairs designed to navigate a wide range of terrains that may be encountered in outdoor environments.
These are important to park visitors because they provide individuals with mobility impairments the opportunity to access and enjoy outdoor recreation areas that might otherwise be inaccessible. Each park with an all-terrain wheelchair offers trail experiences that can accommodate this specialized wheelchair. The chairs are free to the public and available for both children and adults. The chairs can be operated independently and offer the option of allowing caretaker control.
To help us serve our visitors better, we kindly ask that you give us advance notice if you’d like to use a wheelchair. While it is possible to request a chair upon arrival, there is a possibility that the chair may already be reserved for another guest. Advanced requests ensure the availability of wheelchairs and make your experience even more enjoyable.
If you are interested in seeing the overlook, the overlook is wheelchair friendly but the trail leading to it is not. The trail can be accessed by using an all terrain wheelchair or vehicle with clearance.
Accessible Visitor Center
Stop by the Visitor Center during your trip to Cummins Falls for park information.
While you’re there, browse the gift shop for a souvenir or fill your water bottle at the accessible fountain outside. A wheelchair-friendly restroom is available at the Visitor Center.
Have Questions? Need Accommodations?
We're here to help.
If you have any questions, comments, require special accommodations, or need assistance with interpretive services and events for someone in your party, we're here to help.
To fulfill reasonable requests for assistance, we kindly ask that you reach out to the Park Office at least 10 days before your visit. This will enable us to make the necessary arrangements to provide you with an enjoyable park experience. Provide us with details about your needs so we can be well-prepared.
