While visiting family in Cookeville, Tennessee, my son-in-law, Taylor, offered to lead me on a hike to Cummins Falls. It was early and cold, so we had this popular trail to ourselves. Descending to the creek bed led us past beautiful bluffs followed by two wet creek crossings. We passed massive boulders while approaching the roar of the falls. Notice the water level marked on Taylor’s pants. 

I didn’t bring a tripod, but placing the camera on rocks along the creek provided stability for longer exposures. After enjoying Cummins Falls, we began the trek back downstream.

Two hikers having fun with a wet crossing.

Most photos of Cummins Falls show swarms of people on the watery stair steps at the base. We saw only two hikers moving toward the falls as we were leaving. The parking lot was filling fast, so we were pleased we’d done this as an early morning hike.

The best benefit from hiking early was having more family time with this beautiful little fella after our hike. It won’t be long before Taylor and Anna have our first grandson on the trails!