Cumberland River Quiz
Explore the Cumberland River’s Tennessee system, tributaries, dams, and basin geography (10 questions).
Cumberland River Quiz: Quick Study Notes
The Cumberland River is a significant waterway in the southeastern United States, flowing primarily through Kentucky and Tennessee. Its basin is rich in history and ecological diversity, supporting major urban centers like Nashville and providing vital resources through its extensive system of tributaries and dams. This quiz tests your knowledge of its geography, hydrological features, and human impact.
Key Takeaways
- The Cumberland River is a major tributary of the Ohio River.
- It flows predominantly through Kentucky and Tennessee.
- Nashville, TN, is a major city situated on the river.
- Its basin begins in the Appalachian Mountains.
- Important tributaries include the Harpeth and Caney Fork rivers.
- Dams like Wolf Creek and Old Hickory are crucial for flood control and hydroelectricity.
- Lake Cumberland is one of the largest reservoirs formed by a dam on the river.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which two states does the Cumberland River flow through?
The Cumberland River flows primarily through Kentucky and Tennessee.
What larger river does the Cumberland River flow into?
The Cumberland River is a major tributary of the Ohio River.
What is the largest city located directly on the Cumberland River?
Nashville, Tennessee, is the largest city situated directly on the Cumberland River.
What are some primary functions of the dams on the Cumberland River?
Dams on the Cumberland River primarily serve for flood control, hydroelectric power generation, and navigation.
Where does the Cumberland River originate?
The headwaters of the Cumberland River are located in the Appalachian Mountains in eastern Kentucky.

GeoQuizzy Editorial Team is a collective of geography educators, researchers, and quiz designers dedicated to creating accurate, engaging, and exam-relevant geography content. The team focuses on physical geography, human geography, maps, landforms, climate, and world regions, transforming core concepts into interactive quizzes that support students, educators, and competitive-exam aspirants. Every quiz published on GeoQuizzy is carefully reviewed for factual accuracy, clarity, and alignment with academic curricula and standardized exams.