Fiery Gizzard Rock Climbing
  • Forest scene with a small waterfall flowing into a tranquil pool, surrounded by lush green foliage. A staircase descends on the left side, evoking a serene, natural atmosphere.
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    Silhouette of a rock climber scaling a cliff with a bright sun and tree in the background, conveying determination and adventure.

    Rock Climbing at Fiery Gizzard

    Fiery Gizzard State Park is home to two very popular climbing areas: Denny Cove and Foster Falls.  

    Jumping from waterfalls or cliffs is prohibited in any park area. Rock climbing in the Fiery Gizzard area is restricted to the Foster Falls and Denny Cove areas. Permits are required for each person climbing and are available online.

    Permit Registration

    All climbers should register online or with park management prior to each time they climb in Tennessee State Parks.  

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

    Register for Permit

    Review the Tennessee State Parks Climbing Policy.

    Review Here

    Climbing Locations

      • Waterfall cascading through a dense forest with tall, bare trees.

      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.  

      Climbing grades range from 5.8 to 5.14. The majority of routes fall into the 5.11 – 5.12 range.  

      Much of the cliff line at Denny Cove extends above the shade of trees; therefore peak climbing conditions will occur during the cooler months. There is currently no camping in Denny Cove. Gate closes at 6:00 PM Central Time.

      Rappelling at Denny Cove is prohibited.

      • Waterfall cascading over rocky cliff into a turquoise pool, surrounded by dry branches.

      Foster Falls

      Foster Falls is one of the most popular sport climbing areas in the southern United States. Every year, people travel from all over America and Canada to test their skills on the challenging sandstone bluffs.   

      There are more than 150 established climbing routes at Foster Falls ranging in difficulty from beginner-friendly 5.5s and 5.7s to see-what-your-made-of 5.13 and 5.14s. The majority of the climbs fall into the 5.10 to 5.12 range.  

      Trails close 30 minutes after sunset Central Time, so climbers must plan accordingly to get out on time.  

      Rappelling at Foster Falls is prohibited.

    Additional information can be found at www.seclimbers.org

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    Discover More at Fiery Gizzard

    Visitor Center Gift Shop

    The Visitor Center Gift Shop is the perfect place to pick up a map, learn about the park, or find a souvenir. You’ll find an assortment of apparel and keepsakes to remember your trip to the park.

    Address: 
    11745 US 41, Monteagle TN, 37356
    1-931-924-2980

    Hours:
    Seasonal. Please call for more information.

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    Intro to Rock Climbing

    Fiery Gizzard State Park
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    More Parks with Rock Climbing

    Nearby Climbing: Climbing is also allowed at Stone Door, located nearby in Savage Gulf State Park. Learn more on the Savage Gulf State Park rock climbing page.

    Other Activities at Fiery Gizzard State Park