A hiker's paradise, South Cumberland State Park and Natural Area contains 12,000 acres of land in three different counties: Franklin, Marion, and Grundy. I don't want to sound like your mother, but it's a good idea to stop at the South Cumberland Visitor Center (located between Tracy City and Monteagle on U.S. Highway 41) before heading on your merry way, because they have maps and trial information for you. South Cumberland Trails will take you by some spectacular sights, including waterfalls, gorges, lakes, natural rock bridges, and the deepest, darkest of caves. Recognized natural areas within South Cumberland State Park include: Savage Gulf State Natural Area (55 miles of trails and 10 primitive campgrounds); Savage Gulf; Stone Door; Grundy Lakes (for swimming and picnicking); Foster Falls (modern campgrounds and a waterfall); Sewanee Natural Bridge (27 foot high sandstone bridge); Hawkins Cove Natural Area; Fiery Gizzard Trail (12.5 miles of some of the most scenic hiking in Tennessee); Grundy Forest (picnic shelter, waterfalls, plunge pool, and cascading streams); and Greeter Falls (a day-use trail). Like I said, bring a map.
Directions
Visitors center is loocated on US 41 between Monteagle and Tracy City.