When it comes to movies, you might think that just about everything is filmed in Hollywood. This is certainly the case with a lot of flicks, but sometimes filmmakers need a natural area that is so picturesque, that it can only be set in Tennessee. So while we know our land is teeming with beauty you may be wondering what movies have been filmed in Tennessee. If you have seen the live-action Jungle Book then you might have seen a few familiar places. So where was The Jungle Book filmed? Great question, to answer that we have to look deep into the "Jungle" of middle Tennessee to find what we are looking for. The Jungle Book was one movie filmed in Tennessee that made great use of our natural areas. With three different wilderness areas represented within the movie, Tennessee had a starring role in "The Jungle Book" movie!
There were three sections in our state wherein "The Jungle Book" was filmed: Fall Creek Falls State Park, Ozone Falls, and Lost Creek State Natural Area.
Each one features stunning beauty that is the perfect backdrop for jungle scenes. Fall Creek Falls, in Fall Creek Falls State Park, is the tallest waterfall in Tennessee. This massive natural wonder plunges 256 feet down to the pool below. I have hiked to the bottom of this waterfall and it remains one of our favorite Tennessee trails we have ever done. The mighty torrents of water falling from such a steep cliff can really only be appreciated once you stand at the base and feel the rush of wind as the water plummets down to the pool at the bottom of the gorge. As beautiful as this waterfall is that was not the only waterfall in our state park that made a cameo.
Cane Creek Cascade made it into a couple of scenes as well.
The iconic suspension bridge above the waterfall was the perfect jungle setting for a wooden rope bridge with dangling vines over a waterfall. You might not see elephants if you visit there today but you can walk across this epic bridge. I have also traversed this suspension bridge and we had a blast walking across it as it bounces and sways. These bridges are always a blast but it makes it even better when you have a beautiful waterfall cascading down under your feet.
The lower part of the falls plunges deep into a canyon below and is awe-inspiring to see from the overlook.
There was a big scene in the movie where Mowgli jumps off that cliff and plummets into the cool waters below. Please leave such stunts to professionals, however.
For a grand view of this part of the gorge, there is an overlook right near the walkway that leads down to Cane Creek Falls. Not only will you be able to see the lower falls but there is also another impressive waterfall that plunges down into the gorge.
Ozone Falls was another area that was used for the film. This incredible waterfall is accessible only a few short feet from the parking lot. You can step out to the limestone rocks at the top of the falls and then take a trail to the bottom of this lovely waterfall.
Behind the waterfall is an interesting place to walk behind the falls into a large opening in the cliffside. It isn't quite a cave but still makes for a fun way to explore around Ozone Falls.
Another big set piece in the movie was filmed in the Lost Creek State Natural Area. This spot is just north of Fall Creek Falls State Park and also features stunning jungle-like backgrounds. This area features a lovely waterfall and an epic cave making this a great spot to explore.
The waterfall right next to the cave makes this area seem other-worldly and a perfect setting for a jungle scene.
There is a good new trivia question for you next time someone asks: Where was The Jungle Book filmed? You will have an answer. Our state is just beautiful from east to west and the perfect place to film. So if anyone is out there looking to make a movie filmed in Tennessee, we have got some great choices. For more information about each place please visit the Fall Creek Falls State Park website or visit the Lost Creek State Natural Area website. If you are looking to stay in the area then make sure you book a night's stay at this Woodened Retreat Cabin. This area is filled with wonderful hiking trails so make sure you have AllTrails+ to keep track of all your trails.
Did you know there is an abandoned prison that was also used in the making of a classic movie? The Tennessee State Prison is one eerie and interesting location that was the place they filmed The Green Mile.
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