Chattanooga, Tennessee, October 21, 2025
News Summary
Tennessee has officially dedicated Fiery Gizzard State Park and Head of the Crow State Park, enhancing outdoor experiences on the Cumberland Plateau. Both parks offer hiking, exploring, and camping opportunities. Fiery Gizzard features over 20 miles of trails with stunning waterfalls, while Head of the Crow encompasses more than 4,200 acres, including biodiverse habitats and significant natural features. Located less than an hour from Chattanooga, these parks are prime destinations for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Chattanooga, Tennessee — Tennessee has officially dedicated two new state parks, Fiery Gizzard State Park and Head of the Crow State Park, enhancing the state’s outdoor offerings for visitors and residents. The ceremonies took place on Monday and Tuesday, respectively. Both parks are located on the scenic Cumberland Plateau, with numerous opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, exploring, and camping.
Fiery Gizzard State Park, dedicated on Monday, preserves the Fiery Gizzard Trail and surrounding forestland within Grundy and Marion counties. This park features over 20 miles of trails characterized by stunning waterfalls, steep bluffs, and breathtaking scenic overlooks, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.
Head of the Crow State Park was dedicated on Tuesday and encompasses more than 4,200 acres, protecting significant areas from the Lost Cove section of the former South Cumberland complex. This park includes natural features such as the headwaters of Crow Creek, the Sewanee Natural Bridge, and biodiverse ridge-top habitats, contributing to the preservation of unique landscape characteristics.
Both state parks are less than an hour’s drive from Chattanooga, making them accessible for day trips. The travel time to Fiery Gizzard from Chattanooga typically ranges from 55 to 70 minutes via I-24 toward Tracy City. The drive to Head of the Crow also takes about 50 to 60 minutes. For visitors from Nashville, Fiery Gizzard State Park is approximately a 1.5 to 2-hour drive, while the Head of the Crow is roughly 1.5 hours away.
The Fiery Gizzard area has long been appreciated by local hikers and conservation groups, with previous conservation efforts aimed at protecting thousands of acres in its watershed. These conservation programs were instrumental in the establishment of both parks, integrating them into the state park system. Furthermore, Head of the Crow Park brings together former Lost Cove holdings with adjacent conserved lands, ensuring the preservation of important natural features.
Collaborative planning and stewardship discussions involving the University of the South and local conservation partners played a key role in the creation of Head of the Crow State Park. Visitors are encouraged to check the parks’ web pages for information on trailhead locations, regulations, and volunteer opportunities before their visit.
Potential visitors to Fiery Gizzard State Park should note that some trailheads may require high-clearance vehicles or have limited parking available, and hikers should prepare for rugged terrain. It is advisable to bring plenty of water and to wear appropriate footwear while exploring the trails.
For detailed information, maps, and official guidance concerning both parks, all resources are available on the Tennessee State Parks website.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the names of the two newly dedicated state parks in Tennessee?
The two newly dedicated state parks are Fiery Gizzard State Park and Head of the Crow State Park.
When were the parks dedicated?
Fiery Gizzard State Park was dedicated on Monday, and Head of the Crow State Park was dedicated on Tuesday.
Where are the parks located?
The parks are located on the Cumberland Plateau in Tennessee.
What activities can visitors do at these parks?
Visitors can enjoy hiking, exploring, and camping at both Fiery Gizzard and Head of the Crow State Parks.
How many miles of trails does Fiery Gizzard State Park have?
Fiery Gizzard State Park features over 20 miles of trails.
What significant natural features does Head of the Crow State Park include?
Head of the Crow State Park includes the headwaters of Crow Creek, Sewanee Natural Bridge, and biodiverse ridge-top habitats.
How far are the parks from Chattanooga?
Both state parks are within an hour’s drive from Chattanooga.
Who contributed to the planning of Head of the Crow State Park?
The University of the South and local conservation partners contributed to planning and stewardship discussions for Head of the Crow State Park.
Where can visitors find more information about the parks?
Visitors can check the parks’ web pages for information about trailhead locations, regulations, and volunteer opportunities.
| Feature | Fiery Gizzard State Park | Head of the Crow State Park |
|---|---|---|
| Dedication Date | Monday | Tuesday |
| Location | Grundy and Marion Counties | Lost Cove Section of South Cumberland Complex |
| Acres | Not specified | More than 4,200 acres |
| Miles of Trails | Over 20 miles | Not specified |
| Distance from Chattanooga | 55 to 70 minutes | 50 to 60 minutes |
| Distance from Nashville | 1.5 to 2 hours | Roughly 1.5 hours |
| Natural Features | Waterfalls, bluffs, scenic overlooks | Headwaters of Crow Creek, Sewanee Natural Bridge, biodiverse ridge-top habitats |
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Author: STAFF HERE CHATTANOOGA WRITER
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