Pets allowed
Not Allowed
Elevation Gain
662.00 ft (201.78 m)
Trail type
There-and-back
Distance
5.30 mi (8.53 km)
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

Window Cliffs State Natural Area is located in the southwest portion of Putnam County, Tennessee. 

This land was designated as a state natural area in 2014. Window Cliffs is a very narrow cliff ridge. This ridge is narrow at the top and about 200ft above Cane Creek. 

The Window Cliffs are made up of sedimentary limestone rock. These cliffs are constantly undergoing the effects of erosion. One day, the Window Cliffs will fall as a result of the erosion. 

This state natural area is home to many endangered plant species such as Muhlenbergia cuspidata (Plains Muhly) and Thuja occidentalis (White Cedar).

You will get wet on this hike! There is a total of 18 creek crossings on this hike, 9 going in and 9 back out. 

The overall hike is considered moderate, round about time takes around 3 hrs to complete. The hiking trail is well maintained and easily found. The park service does a great job keeping the trail trimmed and cut back. Don't forget to stop at Window Cliff Falls, it's a rewarding swimming hole

When planning a hike here, please always be mindful of rain and storms. With so many creek crossings, heavy rain can lead to swollen rivers and cause an issue getting back to the parking lot. In the last couple of months, Putnam County Rescue Squad has been called out to rescue hikers because of swollen rivers after a rain storm. 

Please be careful on top of the bluffs as they can be unstable.

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Spring
Summer
Fall

Congestion

Moderate

Parking Pass

None

Open Year-round

Yes

Pros

Scenic views. Geology. Water crossings. Wildflowers. Waterfalls.

Cons

Rocky. High water.

Trailhead Elevation

988.00 ft (301.14 m)

Highest point

874.00 ft (266.40 m)

Features

Family friendly
Near lake or river
Old-growth forest
Wildflowers
Wildlife
Waterfalls
Geologically significant

Typically multi-day

No

Permit required

No

Location

Nearby Lodging + Camping

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