Ozone Falls
Swimming hole in Crossville, Tennessee · Waterfall
Plan your visit to Ozone Falls, a natural waterfall and swimming hole in Tennessee. Get directions, safety tips, and details on the unofficial trail.
About Ozone Falls
Tucked into the rugged terrain of the Cumberland Plateau, Ozone Falls is one of Tennessee's most dramatic natural surprises. Here, Fall Creek hurls itself 110 feet off a sandstone ledge, crashing into a cool, clear pool that seems almost too perfect to be real. The surrounding amphitheater of mossy rock walls and overhanging forest canopy creates a sense of total seclusion — even though the site is surprisingly accessible from the road. It's the kind of place that stops you mid-step and makes you just stare for a moment before you remember you came here to swim.
The Setting and Landscape
The falls sit within the boundaries of Cumberland Trail State Park, framed by ancient geological formations that tell the story of millions of years of water cutting through stone. The rock face is streaked with mineral stains in shades of rust, charcoal, and cream, and the mist from the plunge hangs in the air on warm days, catching the light filtering through the tree canopy above. The forest here shifts with the seasons — brilliant green in late spring, lush and humming with insects in midsummer, blazing with color in early fall. The trail to the base of the falls involves a moderate descent, so you'll want to wear proper footwear with good grip. The reward at the bottom is immediate: the roar of the falls, the cool spray on your face, and the sight of that deep natural pool waiting below.
Swimming at Ozone Falls
The swimming pool at the base of the falls is the heart of the experience. Fed by the constant cascade of Fall Creek, the water stays refreshingly cold even during the hottest stretches of summer — the kind of cold that makes you gasp on entry and feel instantly alive. The pool is deep enough for jumping from lower rock ledges, and the clarity of the water lets you see the smooth stone bottom below. There are no lifeguards on site, so swimmers should exercise caution and be confident in their abilities, especially around the base of the falls where currents can be unpredictable. This is an unofficial swimming area, so visitors should come prepared and aware of their own safety.
Practical
The experience
- Best time to visit Late spring through early fall, particularly May to September, when the weather is warm and the waterfall is at its most vibrant.
- Access Moderate; easy access to the top of the falls but a steeper descent to the pool below. Suitable for most visitors with proper footwear.
- Facilities No facilities available on-site; visitors should bring their own water, snacks, and essentials for the day.
Highlights & features
- 110-foot plunge waterfall
- Natural swimming pool
- Hollywood filming location
- Seasonal beauty
- Accessible hiking trails
- Cinematic history as a Disney filming location
- Part of Cumberland Trail State Park
- Easily accessible yet feels remote
How to get there
Ozone Falls is a stunning natural swimming hole and waterfall located in Tennessee, near the towns of Crossville, Crab Orchard, and Rockwood. Follow the directions below for a safe and enjoyable visit. Driving Directions:
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From Crossville
Begin by heading east on Interstate 40 (I-40).
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Take the Crab Orchard exit (Exit 329).
At the end of the exit ramp, turn left onto Crab Orchard Road. Continue to the intersection with Route 70 (US-70). Turn right onto Route 70 heading east. Drive approximately 4 miles on Route 70. Ozone Falls will be on your right-hand side. Look for the designated parking area near the falls. From Knoxville: Begin by heading west on Interstate 40 (I-40).
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Take the Crab Orchard exit (Exit 329).
At the end of the exit ramp, turn right onto Crab Orchard Road. Continue to the intersection with Route 70 (US-70). Turn right onto Route 70 heading east. Drive approximately 4 miles on Route 70. Ozone Falls will be on your right-hand side. Look for the designated parking area near the falls.
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Parking and Trail Information
The parking area is located directly off Route 70 and is clearly marked. It is free and accommodates a moderate number of vehicles. From the parking area, follow the trail directly ahead to view the top of Ozone Falls. This trail is relatively short and provides an excellent vantage point to see the waterfall from above. To access the base of the falls and the swimming hole, locate the secondary trail to the right of the parking area (as you face away from the road). This trail descends gently toward the road before transitioning to a rockier path. At the halfway point, you’ll have a clear view of the falls and the pool below. From here, the trail becomes steeper but manageable, leading down to the base of the falls. Exercise caution on this section, as the rocks can be slippery.
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Helpful Tips
Wear sturdy footwear suitable for hiking, as the trail to the base of the falls involves uneven terrain and rocks. Bring water and snacks, as there are no facilities at the site. Be mindful of your footing, especially near the base of the falls, as the area can be slippery. Ozone Falls is a popular destination, so arrive early to secure parking and enjoy the site with fewer crowds. Enjoy your visit to Ozone Falls, one of Tennessee’s most beautiful natural landmarks!
Plan your visit
Ozone Falls is easily reached from several nearby communities. Crossville, the largest town in the area, offers a full range of lodging, dining, and services and makes an ideal base for exploring the region. Crab Orchard and Rockwell are closer to the falls and worth a drive through for a taste of small-town Cumberland Plateau life. Consider pairing your visit with other Cumberland Trail destinations for a full day in the plateau's extraordinary landscape.
Ozone Falls is easily reached from several nearby communities. Crossville, the largest town in the area, offers a full range of lodging, dining, and services and makes an ideal base for exploring the region. Crab Orchard and Rockwell are closer to the falls and worth a drive through for a taste of small-town Cumberland Plateau life. Consider pairing your visit with other Cumberland Trail destinations for a full day in the plateau's extraordinary landscape.
Access & fees
Access is via an unofficial, unmaintained trail. Parking is available off US-70. There are no restrooms, changing areas, or trash services. The site can be crowded, especially on weekends and in summer.
Access is via an unofficial, unmaintained trail. Parking is available off US-70. There are no restrooms, changing areas, or trash services. The site can be crowded, especially on weekends and in summer.
Frequently asked questions
Is OZONE FALLS free to visit?
OZONE FALLS is generally free to access. No entry fee is commonly reported, though parking passes or day-use fees can be introduced — always confirm current rules before heading out.
Is swimming allowed at OZONE FALLS?
Yes, OZONE FALLS is an officially sanctioned recreation area where swimming is permitted. Reported activities include: Swimming. Always respect posted closures and seasonal restrictions.
What type of swimming spot is OZONE FALLS?
OZONE FALLS is a falls on Fall Creek located in TN, near CROSSVILLE. Plan your visit to Ozone Falls, a natural waterfall and swimming hole in Tennessee. Get directions, safety tips, and details on the unofficial trail.
When is the best time to visit OZONE FALLS?
The best time to visit OZONE FALLS is Late spring through early fall, particularly May to September, when the weather is warm and the waterfall is at its most vibrant.. Water levels, clarity, and temperature vary with recent weather — always check conditions before going, especially after rain or snowmelt.
What facilities are available at OZONE FALLS?
Reported facilities at OZONE FALLS include: No facilities available on-site; visitors should bring their own water, snacks, and essentials for the day.. Amenities can change — contact the managing agency or check recent visitor reports to confirm current availability.
Nearby swimming holes
Map & location
Culture & history
Featured in Disney's live-action 'The Jungle Book', highlighting its cinematic appeal and cultural importance.
Conservation
Preserved as part of Tennessee's natural heritage; visitors should follow Leave No Trace principles to protect wildlife and plant life.