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:

Cumberland Mountain State Park – Hiking, boating, and historic CCC structures.
Obed Wild & Scenic River – Great for paddling and climbing.
Chestnut Hill Winery – Local wine tasting just off I-40.
Historic Downtown Crossville – Quaint shops, local dining, and a small-town vibe.
Homesteads Tower Museum – A New Deal-era history stop about the Cumberland Homesteads project.

Family-Friendly Places to Eat Nearby:

Forte’s on the Square – Italian and American classics in Crossville.
The Pour House Bistro – Casual, cozy bistro fare with a nice outdoor patio.
Spike’s Sports Grille – Burgers and sports-bar energy, kid-friendly during the day.
Gondola Pizza House – Affordable and family-run pizza joint.
The Brass Lantern – Steak and Southern comfort food in a family-friendly setting.

Entry 126: A Rainy Night, Birds at Dawn, and the Cozy Joy of Glamping at Ozark RV Park

If you’ve been thinking about trying glamping or need a peaceful base to explore Mountain View, Arkansas, let me share a place you’ll want to add to your list: Ozark RV Park and Cabins. Ozark RV Park & Cabins Call: 870-200-9090 The Glamping Tent I recently stayed in one of their glamping tents, and it was such a fun, comfortable experience. The tent is spacious, set up on a platform with a real bed (on a frame), crisp linens, a fan, air conditioning (yes, you get AC in a tent!), and a Keurig for that first warm cup of coffee in the morning. During my stay, it rained gently, and there is something incredible about falling asleep to the sound of rain on canvas while staying warm and cozy in bed. In the morning, I woke up to the sound of birds and crisp air, peeking outside to a misty, peaceful campground that felt like a breath of fresh air. The Big Park Sign & Rooster The bathhouse on-site deserves a shout-out. It has the nostalgic feel of a summer camp bathhouse but is immacul...

Entry 85: A Quirky Stop in Austin, MN: Exploring the Spam Museum and More

If you’re into quirky attractions and unexpected fun, the Spam Museum in Austin, Minnesota is a must-see. Located at 101 3rd Ave NE , this one-of-a-kind destination has been drawing curious travelers and Spam fans since it opened in 1991. After a major expansion and relocation in 2016, the museum now offers an even more immersive and entertaining experience. A Taste of History Spam was first introduced in 1937 by Hormel Foods , and the museum walks you through how this humble canned meat became a global sensation. It played a major role during World War II , feeding troops across the globe and becoming a beloved staple in households everywhere. Inside the museum, you’ll find a blend of history, pop culture, and international flair . Learn how Spam became a hit in countries like South Korea, the Philippines, and Hawaii. You'll also get a glimpse of the role Spam played in post-war culture and its place in today’s culinary world. Interactive Exhibits and More The Spam Museum is...

Entry 131: From Bonsai to Blooms: A Walk Through Portland’s Gardens

A Stroll Through the Portland Japanese Garden On a quiet morning in downtown Portland, a buddy and I decided to walk from our hotel to the Portland Japanese Garden. The route wound through the city and into Washington Park, and while it was uphill in spots, it was not bad at all. By the time we reached the entrance, we felt like we had already eased into the slower pace the garden promises. Even before I took ten steps inside, the city noise seemed to fade. The air felt cooler and fresher, like the garden had its own climate set apart from the bustle just outside its walls. The path curved gently ahead, leading us past moss-covered stones and neatly raked gravel beds. A small stream gurgled quietly under a wooden footbridge, the sound blending with the soft rustle of leaves overhead. Every turn revealed a new scene, a carefully placed lantern, a cluster of maple trees, or a pond where koi fish drifted lazily through the water. We followed the path uphill to a wide view of the city. Th...

Wanderings And Ponderings

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