Fiery Gizzard Trail, Sequatchie, Tennessee, USA
The Fiery Gizzard Trail is considered to be one of the top 25 hikes in the United States. This trail is so beautiful in places that pictures cannot do it justice. Whether you come for a hike, trail run, or overnight backpack, you will not be disappointed.
From its start near Tracy City, the Fiery Gizzard Trail is graced with rushing creeks, waterfalls, ancient hemlocks, ferns, and rock gardens. You’ll encounter a deeply cut “mini-gorge” known as Black Canyon, the beautiful Sycamore Falls, and pass between house-sized boulders. After three miles the trail becomes rocky, then leaves the creek to climb steeply to Ravens Point, where an overlook and camping area are found. If you prefer, you can use the Dog Hole Trail (named for the old coal mines it passes) to make a loop or as an easier, if less scenic, route to Ravens Point.
From the Point south towards Foster Falls the trail is an easy path through the forest until mile 9.7 when you must make a steep, rocky descent into Laurel Branch Gorge. The final two miles along the rim of the gorge to Foster Falls provide magnificent views. The falls are breathtaking, especially after rainfall, and you can finish a summer hike or run with a dip in the huge plunge pool below.
While the climb up to Ravens Point and through Laurel Branch Gorge are extremely technical, the majority is moderate to easy. Camping is available at Ravens Point or near Foster Falls (permit required).
Visit USA. Epic USA Adventure Route © All Rights Reserved | Monika & Simon Newbound 2017
Own or work here?
