Fall Creek Falls Rock Climbing
Notification Alert

Trail Closures

Fall Creek Falls State Park

In August 2023, Fall Creek Falls State Park was impacted by a tornado. Please see the updates below regarding the current status of park availability due to past storm damage.

The following areas remain closed:

  • Piney Falls Trail (FCF parking lot to Piney Falls parking lot)
  • Millikan's Overlook Trail (overlook is open, trail is closed)
  • A solitary tree silhouette stands on a rocky cliff against a serene sunset. The sky is filled with soft hues of orange and pink, creating a peaceful atmosphere.
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    A climber with a blue helmet scales a rugged rock face, surrounded by trees under a clear blue sky. The scene conveys adventure and determination.

    Rock Climbing at Fall Creek Falls

    Rock climbing at Fall Creek Falls is by permit only.

    Permits are free and available online or at the Visitor Center.  

    Register For Permit

    Tennessee State Parks Climbing Policy: Rock climbing at Fall Creek Falls State Park is by registration only. Registration is free and available at the Visitor Center and online. Rock Climbing at Fall Creek Falls State Park is by permit only. Permits are free.

    Review the policy

    Registration

    • Register

      To help ensure that Tennessee State Parks continue to provide quality areas for recreational climbing, all climbers should register online prior to each time they climb in Tennessee State Parks.  

    • Confirmation Email

      Once you have registered, you will receive a confirmation email with your unique registration number, site rules, and other helpful info. Please keep the registration number with you while climbing.

    • Put On Vehicle Dashboard

      At some locations, you may be asked to leave a piece of paper with your registration number on your car dashboard. 

    • Carry Permit

      Permits must be carried at all times.  

    Rock Climbing Rules

    Climbing is only allowed at Copperhead Rock and Buzzards Roost. No other locations are permitted. 

    Protection Devices 

    Protection devices such as pitons, bolts, cables, or any other device that causes permanent damage are not to be used. Failure to comply with this rule can result in the denial of permission for future climbs.   

    Follow These Rules 

    • All climbers must be off the rocks one hour before sunset.
    • No overnight camping.
    • Any incidents resulting in personal injury or damage to property must be reported to the Park Manager or other park official.

    In case of emergency, call 911.
    Climb safely and at your own risk! 

    • Cliffside view with rugged rock formations on the right and lush green trees on the left, contrasted against a clear blue sky, evoking tranquility.
    • Silhouette of a rock climber scaling a cliff with a bright sun and tree in the background, conveying determination and adventure.

    Copperhead Rock

    Copperhead Rock is a popular destination for top roping and rappelling. 

    There are routes for beginners and routes for more advanced climbers who would like to test their abilities. Copperhead Rock is located near the Fall Creek Falls Overlook and can be accessed via the Copperhead Rock Climbing Trail. 

    At Copperhead Rock, there are routes ranging from 5-5 to 5-10, and they range from 25 feet to 60 feet tall. There are plenty of strong anchor points for top roping in this area.  

    Be sure not to leave gear unattended. To get back to the top of the climbing area, look directly at the rock face. Turn right and keep the rock face on your left-hand side. Follow the trail all the way back to the top. Please respect wildlife and the wilderness reclamation area. 

    Parking: Please park in the Fall Creek Falls Overlook Parking Lot. Do not block the gravel driveway for emergency vehicles. Cars blocking the gravel driveway will be towed. 

    Buzzards Roost

    Climbing and rappelling opportunities are available at Buzzards Roost.

    This very exposed area has multiple routes to challenge visitors of all skill levels. Follow the light blue blazes to the right of the overlook to get to Buzzards Roost. Do not leave gear unattended.

    Parking: Please park on the far left-hand side of the Millikan’s Overlook Parking Lot.  

    • Sunset over a lush green forest viewed from a rocky cliff. The warm glow casts long shadows, creating a serene and majestic landscape.
    • A tall waterfall cascades over a rocky cliff surrounded by dense green forest, creating a serene and majestic natural landscape.

    Leave No Trace 

    Tennessee State Parks play a vital role in protecting our natural resources and spaces. You can too.

    Practice Leave No Trace. Plan ahead. Pack out what you pack in. Clean up after yourself.  

    Discover More at Fall Creek Falls

    Visit Our Gift Shops

    Fall Creek Falls State Park has three gift shops throughout the park.

     
      • Small, cozy boutique interior with clothing and accessories displayed on wooden shelves.

      Betty Dunn Nature Center Gift Shop

      10821 Park Road, Spencer, TN 38585

      Open daily from 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM

      • Dark wooden building with an American flag and people on the porch under clear skies.

      Boat Dock Gift Shop

      1996 Village Camp Road, Spencer, TN 38585

      Open seasonal hours

      • Indoor shop display with plush toys and clothing racks.

      Visitor Center Gift Shop

      2009 Village Camp Road, Spencer, TN 38585

      Open daily from 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

    No events are scheduled at this time, but there's always more to explore.

    Find More Events

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    Other Activities at Fall Creek Falls State Park