Spring showers bring May flowers… and also the perfect time for chasing waterfalls. Spring is hands-down my favorite season to seek them out — all that rain usually means a roaring, unforgettable view.
This year, I added a new trail to my spring list: Eagle Falls Trail at Cumberland Falls State Park. I packed up my hiking bag with water and sandwiches, grabbed my oldest daughter and my best friend, and off we went. This time, my youngest had to sit it out — the trail was just a bit beyond his current comfort zone. But I know we’ll be back someday, and I already have my eye on a few kid-friendly spots along the way.
The trail starts off with a jaw-dropping view of Cumberland Falls, known as The Niagara of the South. You can hear the powerful rush of the water almost the entire way, which makes for a peaceful soundtrack to hike along to.
As we made our way down the trail, my best friend and I kept pointing out all the overlooks and beaches we could bring the kids to in the future. There’s so much to explore here for all ages.
Not long before reaching the second, smaller waterfall, we found ourselves caught up in a rock scrambling section of the trail. A massive boulder called our names, and we couldn’t resist climbing up and stretching out on top. It became our front row seat to one of nature’s most peaceful shows — watching and listening to the steady thunder of Cumberland Falls right in front of us. It was one of those rare moments that made time stand still.
Eventually, we pulled ourselves away and continued toward the smaller falls.
After a little more scrambling, we made it — and wow. The smaller waterfall was just as breathtaking in its own way. It spilled into a serene little swimming hole with gorgeous green-blue water. Even with the cooler temps, people were already dipping their toes in. The place felt like a hidden gem.
Since we didn’t have the little ones with us this time, we took the opportunity to explore even more. A few careful climbs later, and we found ourselves behind the waterfall, watching the curtain of water from a whole new angle.
The hike out included what felt like a million stairs (I lost count) — but thankfully, there’s a thoughtfully placed “bench of tears” along the way to catch your breath and share a laugh. We took a short break there before finishing up the loop and heading back to the car.
It was the perfect spring day spent exploring with two of my favorite people. Eagle Falls has quickly become one of my all-time favorite trails, and I can’t wait to come back again — maybe next time with the full crew.
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