🏆🏆🏆🏆 Giant Sandstone Arch Window — Spectacular 100-foot-wide natural window in a sandstone cliff face
Window Cliffs State Natural Area in Putnam County features one of the most dramatic geological formations in the southeastern United States — a massive natural window (arch) carved through a sandstone cliff face approximately 100 feet wide. The “window” frames views of the gorge below, creating a natural viewing portal that has been forming for millions of years through a combination of water erosion and frost weathering on the Cumberland Plateau.
A 2-mile trail leads to the arch overlook, passing through hemlock and hardwood forest before reaching the cliff edge. The view through the window to the valley below is among the most photographed natural formations in Tennessee.
Visitor Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Putnam County, TN (Cumberland Plateau) |
| Entry Fee | Free |
| Window | ~100 ft wide natural sandstone arch |
| Trail | 2 miles to overlook (moderate) |
| Forest | Hemlock and hardwood gorge |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the trail safe?
The trail is moderate but the cliff edge at the window requires extreme caution. There are no guardrails at the natural arch. Keep children closely supervised. The 2-mile hike has moderate elevation change.
About Window Cliffs
Window Cliffs State Natural Area in Putnam County features dramatic sandstone cliffs with a natural window (arch) formation overlooking the Caney Fork River gorge on the Cumberland Plateau. The “window” is a natural hole eroded through the sandstone cliff face — framing views of the forested gorge below. The area is one of the most photogenic natural features on the Cumberland Plateau.
Things to Do
Hiking to the natural window formation (2.5-mile trail), viewing the Caney Fork River gorge through the sandstone arch, photography, rock scrambling, and exploring the Cumberland Plateau sandstone geology. One of Tennessee’s most unique geological features.
Make it a road trip: Pair a visit with Burgess Falls State Park (a short drive away) or Cummins Falls State Park (a short drive away).
🪟 Visit Window Cliffs SNA
100-foot sandstone window — one of the Southeast’s most dramatic natural arches.
Wildlife & Nature
Window Cliffs SNA — on the Cumberland Plateau near Cookeville — features a natural window (arch) in a sandstone cliff overlooking Cane Creek Gulf. The view through the window is spectacular. Timber rattlesnakes, peregrine falcons, and barred owls inhabit the gorge. Rare plants cling to the cliffs.
Nearby Attractions
Cookeville — adjacent. Burgess Falls SP — 10 miles south. Cummins Falls SP — 10 miles southwest. Center Hill Lake — 15 miles south.
