Entry 129: A Stop at the Edge of the Sky: Visiting Ozone Falls, Tennessee

 On my way back from a trip to Kentucky, I made an impromptu stop at Ozone Falls State Natural Area in Tennessee, and I’m glad I did. It turned out to be one of those quirky little adventures that sticks with you, not just for the scenery, but for the whole experience.

Getting There (and Parking Realities)

First things first: parking at Ozone Falls is limited. There are a few official spots directly across from the trailhead, but the rest is mostly shoulder parking along a state highway. It felt a bit risky to leave the car there, but I took the chance, and all turned out fine.

Exploring the Top of the Falls

I started the hike by heading to the top of the falls, where the creek dramatically disappears over the cliff’s edge. Only a few others were up there, making for a surprisingly peaceful moment. I crossed paths with a family enjoying the day with grandkids (at least that’s the vibe I got), and a slightly more eccentric couple, he was photographing her in a swimsuit as she lounged in the shallow waters near the drop. To each their own, I suppose.

I took a few photos from this high vantage point, then moved on to explore the rest of the trail.

Hiking to the Pool Below

The trail to the base of the falls is relatively short but steep in spots, with some slick rocks to navigate along the way. A little over halfway down, you can veer off to a rocky overlook for some unique angles of the waterfall, definitely worth the side-step for photography.

At the bottom, I found a lively crowd gathered around the emerald pool. People were swimming, standing under the cascading water, and blasting music. It was definitely more of a scene for the younger crowd, but I was content to enjoy the view, snap a few more photos, and then hike my way back up.

A Bit of History

Ozone Falls is a 110-foot waterfall located in Cumberland County, Tennessee, and has been protected as a State Natural Area since 1973. The waterfall was formed by Fall Creek, which carved out the plunge pool below as it eroded through layers of sandstone and shale over thousands of years. The area gained national attention when it was used as a filming location for the 1994 live-action version of The Jungle Book.

The name “Ozone” likely comes from the community’s 19th-century belief in the health benefits of the mountain air, thought to be rich in “ozone,” or fresh, clean air. While science may have moved on, the area still feels like a breath of something wild and refreshing.

Local Things to Do Nearby:

1. Cumberland Mountain State Park – Hiking, boating, and historic CCC structures.

2. Obed Wild & Scenic River – Great for paddling and climbing.

3. Chestnut Hill Winery – Local wine tasting just off I-40.

4. Historic Downtown Crossville – Quaint shops, local dining, and a small-town vibe.

5. Homesteads Tower Museum – A New Deal-era history stop about the Cumberland Homesteads project.

Family-Friendly Places to Eat Nearby:

1. Forte’s on the Square – Italian and American classics in Crossville.

2. The Pour House Bistro – Casual, cozy bistro fare with a nice outdoor patio.

3. Spike’s Sports Grille – Burgers and sports-bar energy, kid-friendly during the day.

4. Gondola Pizza House – Affordable and family-run pizza joint.

5. The Brass Lantern – Steak and Southern comfort food in a family-friendly setting.