Fiery Gizzard State Park
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  • Sunrise over a forest with a waterfall flowing into a serene pond.
    Image Subject By Matt Morrison
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    Park Office / Welcome Center

    Geolocation

    35.255938030637, -85.789978092247

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    Phone Reservations

    1-888-867-2757

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    Fiery Gizzard Brochure (4 MB)

    Fiery Gizzard State Park is located in two different Tennessee counties: Grundy and Marion. The park is composed of approximately 7,811 acres and boasts some of the best hiking and backcountry camping in the region. There are lots of areas to explore, including Fiery Gizzard, Denny Cove, and the Historical Grundy Lakes

    The Fiery Gizzard State Park Visitor’s Center, located at 11745 US 41, Monteagle, TN 37356, offers interpretative exhibits and provides information on each component of the South Cumberland State Park. The Visitor Center is a great place to have a picnic before beginning your adventure. Also located just outside the visitor’s center are various recreation fields, including basketball, beach volleyball, tennis, bocce ball, and a multi-use field. Equipment can be rented for free from the front desk.

    Fiery Gizzard State Park has three picnic pavilions for larger parties that can be reserved online. There are also four other small picnic areas with grills located throughout the park. 

    Primitive camping at the Foster Falls Campground and backcountry camping are popular activities at Fiery Gizzard. The primitive campsites at Foster Falls are drive-up while all of the backcountry campsites at the park require hiking to reach. Reservations are required for all campsites at the park and can be made online.

    Fiery Gizzard Trail

    The Fiery Gizzard Trail at South Cumberland State Park is a 12.5-mile-long one-way trail that connects the Grundy Forest and Foster Falls. Hikers may swim in Fiery Gizzard Creek and observe spectacular rock formations, cascading streams, waterfalls, rocky gorges, panoramic overlooks, and lush woodlands. This trail has been rated by Backpacker magazine as one of the Top 25 in the country and should not be missed!

    Lost Cove

    Carter Natural Area is part of a unique 18,000-acre enclosed valley sinkhole aptly named Lost Cove. Dense forests, clear streams, and the striking Buggytop Cave entrance (one of the largest cave openings in the state) are a few of the features found here.

    Sewanee Natural Bridge, located at Lost Cove North, is a beautiful sandstone arch that overlooks Lost Cove and is an easy hike from the parking lot.

    Grundy Lakes

    Grundy Lakes, a day-use area near Tracy City, provides swimming, picnicking, fishing, hiking, and a view of 19th-century coke ovens.

    Denny Cove

    Denny Cove is located less than two miles south of Foster Falls. It is home to well over 100 established sport climbing routes, as well as several challenging traditional climbs.

    To stay up-to-date with the latest park news, announcements and programs be sure to follow us on Facebook. 

    A variety of videos about South Cumberland are available for viewing on the Tennessee State Park You-Tube Channel. Titles include: Rock Climbing, Butterfly Bonanza, Camp Discover, and Reforging the Fiery Gizzard Trail.

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    Safety and Accessibility

    • Safety

      Fiery Gizzard State Park is committed to providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors. However, due to the park's rugged terrain and wilderness setting, it's essential to be aware of potential hazards. Visitors should exercise caution on trails, especially near overlooks and waterfalls, and be prepared for changing weather conditions. It is also important to review the park signage and rules before venturing out to ensure a safe and fun experience. 

    • Accessibility

      Fiery Gizzard State Park strives to provide accessible recreational opportunities for all visitors. While the park's rugged terrain presents challenges, efforts have been made to improve accessibility in certain areas. The park offers accessible parking, restrooms, and picnic areas at the Welcome Center and Grundy Lakes. 
      More Accessibility Information

    • Responsible Recreation

      Tennessee State Parks are dedicated to promoting responsible recreation — encouraging visitors to enjoy the parks’ natural beauty while minimizing their own impact. By practicing Leave No Trace principles and respecting park rules, visitors can help preserve these precious resources for future generations. 
      Find Out How

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    Park Activities

    Park Amenities

    • Aviary
    • Beach
    • Birding
    • Campground
    • Canoe Access
    • Fishing
    • Gift Shop
    • Trails
    • Museum
    • Playground
    • Rock Climbing
    • Swimming
    • Visitor Center
    • Waterfalls

    Inspiration

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    For Educators, School Groups, and Teachers

    Engage your students in a hands-on learning experience with Ranger-led or teacher-led programs at Tennessee State Parks.  

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    Park Pavilion

    South Cumberland State Park has three pavilions that may be reserved online for your next event or gathering. Pavilions are equipped with picnic tables, a grill, and access to restrooms. Depending upon the shelter, access to trails, swings, tennis courts, a sand volleyball court, a basketball court, or a multi-use field is nearby. Pavilions may be reserved online up to one year in advance with a paid reservation fee.  

    There is a $5 cancellation fee for picnic shelter or pavilion reservations canceled eight days or more in advance of the reserved date. Reservations canceled seven days or less in advance of the reserved date forfeit all paid fees. 

    Capacity: 25 - 50 

    Rates: $23 - $47 

      • foster fall pavilion

      Foster Falls Pavilion

      The Foster Falls Pavillion is located at Fiery Gizzard South Trail Head with easy access to the beautiful Foster Falls waterfall. Water is available in the bathrooms and a grill is located next to the pavilion. 

      • Grundy forest pavilion

      Grundy Forest Pavilion

      The Grundy Forest Pavilion is a recreation of an old CCC pavilion and is located at the Fiery Gizzard Trail Head in the Grundy Forest. Water is available in the bathrooms and a grill is located next to the pavilion. 

      • Visitor center pavilion

      Visitors Center Pavilion

      The Visitors Center Pavilion has access to bathrooms, a grill, a water spigot, and various recreational sports areas including a basketball court, beach volleyball, tennis court, bocce ball, and a multi-use field. 

    Reserve a Pavilion

    Happenings

    PLATINUM

    More Sustainability Information

  • EV Charging Stations

    Installed EV charging stations at the Fiery Gizzard North parking lot.

  • Energy-Efficient Lighting

    Utilize energy-efficient lighting throughout the park.

  • Reduce Erosion

    Reduced erosion by using tent pads in the campground.

  • Boost Ecosystem Health

    Enhance ecosystem health through controlled burns and native plant growth.  

  • Trash Cleanup

    Scheduled regular cleanups to remove trash from creeks after spring floods.

  • Recycling Program

    Implemented a recycling program for plastics, papers, and metals.

  • Invasive Species Removal

    Host invasive species removal events throughout the summer.  

  • Year-Round Trail Workdays

    Schedule trail workdays year-round to build a more sustainable trail system.

    • Gift Shops and Stores

    Visitor Center Gift Shop

    (opens in new tab) 11745 US 41
    Monteagle, TN 37356

    1-931-924-2980
    Hours

    Seasonal. Call for information.

    Contact Information