The Fiery Gizzard Trail Tennessee runs 12.5 miles through the South Cumberland State Park system, connecting Grundy Forest near Tracy City to Foster Falls in Marion County. Backpacker magazine has cited it as one of the top 25 hiking trails in the United States. That’s a big claim, and after a few miles on the trail you’ll understand why it gets made.
The North Trailhead at Grundy Forest is approximately 22 minutes from The Getaway on Ranger Creek. Start early on the Day Loop and you can be back at the property by early afternoon, with enough time to swing by Greeter Falls on the way home, fire up the grill, and eat on the deck before dark.
What the Fiery Gizzard Trail Is
The Fiery Gizzard follows its namesake creek through gorges, past sandstone bluffs, through boulder fields, and alongside old-growth hemlocks that have been growing here for more than two centuries. The terrain is rugged. Expect rocks, roots, creek crossings, and sections of trail that require real attention. This is not a casual nature walk. It’s also one of the most rewarding hikes in the Southeast if you come prepared.
The full 12.5 miles is a point-to-point route, so you’ll want to arrange a car shuttle between the Grundy Forest trailhead and Foster Falls or plan the hike as an overnight. Most day visitors choose a section rather than the whole trail. The first few miles from the Grundy Forest end are the most accessible and contain some of the trail’s best features.
What You’ll See
From the Grundy Forest trailhead, the trail drops into the gorge almost immediately. Within the first two miles you’ll pass the Blue Hole, a clear swimming hole with a nine-foot waterfall, Sycamore Falls, and Black Canyon, named for the organic staining on the rock walls. The Fruit Bowl, a pile of house-sized boulders with CCC-built stairs running through them, comes shortly after. Chimney Rock, a 20-foot sandstone column, follows.
At around 3.7 miles, the trail begins the climb to Raven Point, an overlook described consistently as one of the best views on the Cumberland Plateau. Most day hikers turn around here or at Sycamore Falls and have had a full morning on the trail.
Those continuing toward Foster Falls will find Anderson Falls, Chain Falls, and eventually the 60-foot Foster Falls at the southern terminus. The full trail gains nearly 1,800 feet of elevation and takes most hikers between five and seven hours to complete.
The Grundy Forest Day Loop
For a shorter option, the Grundy Forest Day Loop is a two-mile moderate route that accesses several of the trail’s early waterfalls, a historic CCC camp area, and multiple swimming holes. It’s manageable for most fitness levels and gives a genuine taste of what makes this trail worth its reputation. The trailhead has a parking lot and restrooms. Our FAQ has more details on the Grundy Forest hike including drive times and what to expect.
Planning Your Fiery Gizzard Trail Hike
No permit is required for day hikes. Dogs are welcome on leash, though the rocky terrain can be tough on them. Bring more water than you think you need. The trail is open year-round, though winter conditions can make wet sections slippery.
For maps and current trail conditions, visit the Tennessee State Parks website.
The Getaway on Ranger Creek sits 22 minutes from the Grundy Forest trailhead. Five units: the Geodesic Glamping Dome, the Scandinavian Cabin, the Glamping Tent with Deck, the Porch House Cabin, and the Nordic Spruce Cabin. Book your stay at thegetawayon.com.