Edible Outings: Chasing Waterfalls

Cool off this summer with a hike to one of Middle Tennessee’s many waterfalls—with a side of good food, of course.

GREETER FALLS

About two hours southeast of Nashville, Greeter Falls is located on a one mile there-and-back, moderate hike. In close-by Tracy City, fuel up for the day at the historic Dutch Maid Bakery & Café—operating over one hundred years makes it the oldest bakery in the state. Head over to South Cumberland State Park, where Greeter Falls is a part of the Savage Gulf trail set; after trekking to the falls and descending the spiral staircase, visitors are rewarded with a beautiful cascade scene framed by stone and lush greenery. Once the trail is completed, cool off by taking a quick dip in the naturally blue swimming pool located on a nearby trail. Stop at Mountain Goat Market in Monteagle on the way home for a delicious dinner to please even the pickiest of eaters, and souvenirs for the road.

Dutch Maid Bakery & Café | 931-592-3171
109 Main St, Tracy City

Mountain Goat Market | 931-924-2727
109 W Main St, Monteagle

CUMMINS FALLS

Just outside of Cookeville, Tennessee, Cummins Falls—an adventurous, rugged trail not suitable for small, wiggly children or inadequate footwear—is worth the ninety-minute drive east of Nashville. After the long hike up the river bed, visitors are greeted by the rushing falls and a refreshingly cool swimming hole that’s been enjoyed by locals for over one hundred years.Pack sandwiches for the drive, and enjoy a picnic lunch at the foot of the falls. After an exciting day of hiking and swimming, break for sophisticated burgers and beers at Father Tom’s Pub, just a fifteen-minute drive from the falls. Down the street from Father Tom’s, follow up dinner with a healthy dose of ice cream from Cream City before heading back home.

Father Tom’s Pub | 931-854-9484
32 North Cedar Ave, Cookeville

Cream City Ice Cream & Coffee House | (931) 528-2732
119 W Broad St, Cookeville | 931-528-2732

GREAT FALLS

Located within Rock Island State Park and boasting an impressive, thirty-foot horseshoe shape, Great Falls once powered a 19th century cotton textile mill, it’s power a testament to it’s name. Probably one of the most visited (and Instagram-worthy) waterfalls in the Middle Tennessee area, the park it calls home offers swimming, fishing, and picnic areas, making it a great place for visitors of all ages. After a long day in the sun and water, stop for a satisfying meal with Cajun-flair at Foglight Foodhouse—a Rock Island original with the apt motto: You’ve got to get lost to find us! With a folksy atmosphere and a porch to soak in more water views before heading home, it makes a great end for a fun-filled day.

Foglight Foodhouse | 931-657-2364
275 Powerhouse Rd, Walling