Grundy Forrest Waterfalls (Fiery Gizzard) Entry 1 Tracy City Tn.

Discover five stunning waterfalls in one easy hike at Grundy Forest State Natural Area, the northern gateway to Tennessee’s legendary Fiery Gizzard Trail. After just 500 feet from the trailhead, hikers encounter a 20-foot waterfall, making this one of the most immediately rewarding waterfall hikes in Tennessee. Perfect for families, casual hikers, and anyone seeking accessible waterfall beauty in a pristine hemlock forest setting. Feel free to submit a trail and pictures.

Address: Highway 41/56, Tracy City, TN (3 miles from town center)

Featured Waterfalls:

• School Branch Falls: 20-foot waterfall located shortly after the trailhead
• Blue Hole Falls: Beautiful 9-10 foot waterfall with a 7-foot deep plunge pool perfect for swimming
• Sycamore Falls: 12-foot waterfall with a superb swimming hole at its base ; the main attraction
• Hanes Hole Falls: Modest 10-foot falls with a 6-foot deep plunge pool
• Black Canyon Cascade: Impressive waterfall where Little and Big Fiery Gizzard Creeks merge through a sandstone slit

Trail Options:

Grundy Forest Day Loop (Easiest Option):

• Distance: 2-mile easy loop
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate; family-friendly
• Hiking Time: 1.5-2 hours
• Waterfalls: Blue Hole Falls, Hanes Hole Falls, School Branch Falls

Grundy Loop + Sycamore Falls (Most Popular):

• Distance: 3.3-3.5 miles roundtrip
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Hiking Time: 2-3 hours
• Waterfalls: All five waterfalls listed above

What to Expect: The trail immediately drops sharply to the level of Little Fiery Gizzard Creek, quickly changing from a plateau-top environment to a world of boulders, swift-flowing water, and hemlock trees . The trail follows Fiery Gizzard Creek for much of its route, with tumbling cascades, waterfalls, and swimming holes along the way . The path is mostly well-maintained dirt trail but includes rocky sections with roots and uneven footing requiring careful attention.

To reach Sycamore Falls from Grundy Forest: Start your hike at the south end of the parking lot on the Grundy Day Loop trail. Follow along the creek until you reach Blue Hole Falls at approximately 0.7 miles, then cross the bridge to merge onto the Fiery Gizzard Trail. Continue for approximately 0.6 miles until you see the sign for Sycamore Falls . You can either follow the spur trail to the top of the falls or scramble down and cross the creek to view the base of the falls, with the base offering the best scenery.

Swimming & Water Features:

• Multiple cold, refreshing swimming holes throughout the trail
• Blue Hole is 7 feet deep with a 9-foot waterfall
• Sycamore Falls pool is excellent for summer swimming
• Creek crossings may be required; water shoes recommended

Natural Features: A 500-year-old hemlock tree grows next to Cave Spring Rock House, a large bluff overhang . The area showcases old-growth hemlock forests, diverse plant life including wildflowers, and clear mountain streams. The 234-acre natural area was originally donated by local residents in 1935 for use as a camp for the Civilian Conservation Corps

Facilities & Amenities:

• Parking: Large parking lot; arrive early on weekends
• Picnic Areas: Historic CCC-built picnic shelter from 1930s
• Camping: Grundy Forest Hemlock Grove backcountry campground (5 hike-in sites, reservations required)
• Dogs: Allowed on leash

Important Visitor Information:

• Best Time to Visit: Spring for peak water flow and wildflowers; summer for swimming; fall for foliage
• What to Bring: Sturdy hiking boots, water shoes for creek crossings, plenty of water (2+ liters per person), trail snacks, waterproof phone case for swimming holes
• Trail Conditions: Rocky and rooty in sections; can be slippery when wet
• Safety: Watch footing on rocks near waterfalls; supervise children around deep pools
• Water Quality: Cold year-round; bring a sturdy pair of sandals and walking stick for creek crossings at Sycamore Falls

Driving Directions: From Tracy City, take Highway 41/56 west for 1 mile, turn left (south) at the Grundy Forest Natural Area sign. Follow small road past school to parking area.

Trail Connection: This trailhead also serves as the northern access point for the famous 12.5-mile Fiery Gizzard Trail for those seeking a more challenging full-day or overnight adventure.

Perfect for waterfall lovers seeking an accessible, family-friendly hike with multiple stunning cascades and refreshing swimming holes in one of Tennessee’s most beautiful natural areas!