LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP
Jumpoff Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainDifficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
300 ft
About Jumpoff Falls
Jumpoff Falls is a lesser-known waterfall located in Tennessee, offering a serene and secluded experience for visitors. It is surrounded by lush forest and is part of the Cumberland Plateau region, known for its rugged terrain and natural beauty.
The Setting
Jumpoff Falls sits at 1,716 feet along the Elk River, in the hills of Tennessee.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Foster Falls (60 ft) lies 9.8 miles to the east. Also nearby: Deer Lick Falls (15 ft, 9.3 mi).
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 2.0-mile out-and-back trail gains 300 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The trail to Jumpoff Falls winds through dense forest and features rocky terrain typical of the Cumberland Plateau. Hikers may encounter uneven paths and some steep sections, making sturdy footwear essential.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a peaceful hike through a forested area leading to a picturesque waterfall. The falls may vary in flow depending on recent rainfall, with spring and early summer offering the best water levels.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Jumpoff Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Jumpoff Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting Jumpoff Falls, as the water flow is typically strongest during these seasons.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
The trail can be slippery after rain, and there may be steep drop-offs near the falls. Exercise caution and stay on marked trails. Cell phone service may be limited in the area.
Current Water Conditions
51 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Higher than usual for this time of year
Based on 61 years of record
2.42 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
The water is flowing higher than usual for this time of year.
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge ELK RIVER NEAR PELHAM, TN (17 km away).
Today
Roaring
58 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Roaring
51 cfs
9/10Tue
Roaring
45 cfs
9/10Wed
Roaring
48 cfs
9/10Thu
Roaring
46 cfs
9/10Fri
Roaring
51 cfs
9/10Sat
Roaring
63 cfs
6/10Best window: Tomorrow — roaring flow, sunny (trip score 9/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early March to late March, peaking in January.
How we calculate this
This is a transparent outlook, not a precise forecast. We take the waterfall's current flow strength (how it ranks against its historical normal for today, from the nearest USGS stream gauge), carry that ranking forward along the gauge's seasonal curve, and nudge it for forecast rain. Confidence is highest for the next day or two and falls further out. Always check official conditions and your own judgment before visiting — high flows can be dangerous.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Monteagle hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
The Terrain, Seen by LiDAR
Aircraft-mounted lasers measured this ground to within inches. Trees and buildings are digitally stripped away, leaving the bare shape of the land the water has carved.
Along the line through the falls, the bare ground drops about 159 feet, most of it in one sheer step, the signature of a plunge waterfall. The ground at the falls is roughly 1,710 feet above sea level.
The whole reach is steep: about 73 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the falls and another 155 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face east and catch soft morning light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 1,710 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 159 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- East
- Catches soft morning light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading east).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Jumpoff Falls is located near Sewanee, Tennessee, within the South Cumberland State Park area. Access may require navigating forest roads or trails, so visitors should check local maps and trail guides for the most accurate directions.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is unclear, but visitors may need to park at nearby trailheads or designated areas within South Cumberland State Park.
Elevation
1,716 feet above sea level
Coordinates
35.142855° N, -85.842459° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Start your hike early to avoid crowds and ensure you have enough daylight. Bring plenty of water, as the trail can be moderately challenging. Check weather conditions before your visit, as rain can make the trail slippery.
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With 2.0 miles and 300 ft of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.
Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)
Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.
Timberland Euro Sprint Mid Waterproof
Trusted waterproof boot with premium leather and grippy rubber sole — reliable on rocky, wet trails.
TrailBuddy Trekking Poles
Lightweight aluminum, cork grips, and flip-locks that actually hold — a best-seller for good reason.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Where to Stay
Spark by Hilton Kimball
Hampton Inn Kimball
Quality Inn Monteagle
Quality Inn & Suites Jasper - Kimball
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include other waterfalls and trails within South Cumberland State Park, such as Foster Falls and the Fiery Gizzard Trail.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, birds, and small mammals. Visitors should also be aware of snakes and other potentially hazardous animals.
Cities near Jumpoff Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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