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Grundy Lakes State Park wilderness guide
State Park · TN

Grundy Lakes State Park

Grundy Lakes State Park is a charming destination ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, offering serene lakes, lush forests, and rich historical significance within Tennessee.

State Park1,000+3+ Trails

Designation

State Park

Total Wilderness Area

1,000+

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Grundy Lakes State Park

Grundy Lakes State Park is a charming destination ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, offering serene lakes, lush forests, and rich historical significance within Tennessee.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Located in Tennessee, Grundy Lakes State Park offers a blend of recreational opportunities and historical relics that make it a favored getaway for nature lovers and history buffs alike. The park features four stunning lakes, remnants of the once-bustling coal industry, providing picturesque settings for picnicking and fishing. Surrounding woodlands host a variety of flora and fauna, encouraging activities such as hiking, bird-watching, and wildlife photography. Historically, the park is noteworthy for its coke ovens, remnants of the area's coal mining and coke production past, viewable along scenic trails and interpretive signs. Grundy Lakes State Park is a testament to conservation and repurposing, as it blends natural beauty with cultural heritage, offering miles of hiking trails, a small sand beach for swimming, and picnic areas. Its accessibility and the richness of its landscape make it a perfect spot for both short visits and extended stays.

Field Guide · State Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Grundy Lakes State Park

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

Waterfall Wonder at Sycamore Falls, Tracy City, TN★ 7.8⌖ 1 miHiking
Sycamore Falls

Waterfall Wonder at Sycamore Falls, Tracy City, TN

Sycamore Falls near Tracy City, TN offers a moderate hike with a beautiful two-tier waterfall and a refreshing plunge pool. Ideal for hiking, swimming, and birdwatching in South Cumberland State Park. Best visited in spring and fall for cool weather and vibrant scenery.

Discover Grundy Forest State Natural Area★ 8.7⌖ 1 miHiking
Grundy Forest State Natural Area at South Cumberland State Park

Discover Grundy Forest State Natural Area

Explore the stunning Grundy Forest State Natural Area in Tracy City, TN. The moderate Fiery Gizzard Trail offers breathtaking views, waterfalls, and diverse ecosystems, popular for hiking and swimming. Ideal for families and nature lovers, best visited from fall to spring.

South Cumberland State Park★ 8.7⌖ 1 miHiking
South Cumberland State Park

South Cumberland State Park

Explore South Cumberland State Park in Monteagle, TN. Known for its moderate trails like Fiery Gizzard and Savage Gulf with dramatic cliffs and waterfalls. Perfect for hiking and photography, with best visits in spring and fall. Quiet year-round and accessible by car.

Underground Wonders: The Caverns★ 8.4⌖ 6 miConcerts
The Caverns

Underground Wonders: The Caverns

Explore The Caverns in Pelham, Tennessee—a natural amphitheater offering concerts and cave tours. Known for unique acoustics and stunning limestone formations, it's best visited in spring and fall. Suitable for music lovers and adventure seekers.

Foster Falls: A Cascade of Wonder★ 8.2⌖ 7 miRock Climbing
Foster Falls

Foster Falls: A Cascade of Wonder

Visit Foster Falls in Tennessee, a stunning 60-foot waterfall surrounded by diverse wildlife and adventurous trails. Ideal for rock climbing and hiking enthusiasts. Best visited in the spring for lush scenery. Easy drive-in access, located near Jasper.

Rock ClimbingView Details→
Climbing at Foster Falls in Chattanooga★ 7.8⌖ 7 miSport Climbing
Fiery Gizzard Trail

Climbing at Foster Falls in Chattanooga

Experience the sport climbing at Foster Falls near Chattanooga, TN. With nearly 200 routes ranging from 5.5 to 5.14, this location is ideal for climbers of all skill levels. The 80-foot waterfall and lush forest provide a stunning backdrop. Best experienced in spring and fall.

Sport ClimbingView Details→

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Historic Coke Ovens✦ Glimpses of diverse wildlife including waterfowl✦ Scenic views of the tranquil lakes✦ Primitive trails through lush woodlands
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Grundy Lakes State Park

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Grundy Lakes State Park
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Grundy Lakes State Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Grundy Lakes State Park
Park Recreation

Swimming

Available in Grundy Lakes State Park
Park Recreation

Picnicking

Available in Grundy Lakes State Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Grundy Lakes State Park
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Grundy Lakes State Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No entrance fee required, open year-round.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Grundy Lakes State Park

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Tracy City
⌖ 1.81 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Tracy City, Tennessee

A quaint town with access to stunning natural landscapes, ideal for adventurers seeking hiking, biking, and exploring serene wilderness in the Cumberland Plateau.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Monteagle
⌖ 4.33 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Monteagle, Tennessee

A charming gateway to the Cumberland Plateau, offering adventure seekers access to serene trails, expansive views, and rich natural history.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Pelham
⌖ 7.41 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Pelham, Tennessee

A tranquil gateway into scenic Cumberland Plateau adventures with rich forests, cascading waterfalls, and quiet rivers offering year-round outdoor activities.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Sewanee
⌖ 9.27 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Sewanee, Tennessee

A quaint university town offering a rich blend of nature, education, and rustic charm, surrounded by the stunning landscapes of the Cumberland Plateau.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Palmer
⌖ 13.07 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Palmer, Tennessee

A tranquil and nature-rich destination with access to breathtaking trails, pristine water bodies, and expansive protected lands.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Jasper
⌖ 14.91 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Jasper, Tennessee

A quaint town offering easy access to rugged landscapes and thrilling adventures in the southern Appalachian region.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Grundy Lakes State Park

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12 bookable experiences

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.