Wednesday 7/27/11 Hike-- Cummins Falls(Northwest of Cookeville)

Wednesday's hike will be Cummins Falls. The hike is only 3 or 4 miles but it is rated moderate to difficult. There is a very steep, sometimes slippery trail from the top of the gorge to the river that must be descended and climbed when returning. Once down at river level, there is a little under a mile hike back to the falls' splash basin that involves several river crossings which take a lot out of the legs. The river may be over knee deep with a fast current so plan to get wet at least to the knees.  The river bottom is rocky and slippery so worn out hiking boots may be a better choice than flimsy river shoes or sandels. Any valuable like a wallet or camera should probably be protected from water damage with a zip lock bag in the event of a fall.  Special liability measures are required for minors. Hopefully all these percautions don't obscure the fact that this is a magnificent waterfall with the 8th largest flow rate in the state. The splash basin is one of Travel and Leisure Mag's 10 best swimming holes in the country so you may want to take a dip. We will depart Cracker-barrel at 6:45. Gas will be $6. Photos: Cheryl Ginger Jim