🥾 Free Day After Thanksgiving Hike at Fiery Gizzard State Park – November 27

As the holiday season settles over the Cumberland Plateau, Fiery Gizzard State Park is inviting visitors to trade the post-Thanksgiving shopping rush for a guided walk through Tennessee’s natural heritage. The free outing offers a chance to explore the historic trails built by the Civilian Conservation Corps during the Great Depression-a legacy that shaped the park’s landscape nearly a century ago.

📍 Event Details & Registration

Ranger Ben will lead the Day After Thanksgiving Hike on Friday, November 27, 2026, at 2:30 PM CST. The group will meet at the Pavilion at Grundy Forest State Natural Area (131 Fiery Gizzard Rd, Tracy City, TN 37387). The hike covers 1.5 miles on natural surface trail-a moderate outing suitable for families and park newcomers alike. 🌲

Registration is required and closes 24 hours before the event. Participants should dress for the weather, wear appropriate footwear, and review the Essential Eligibility Criteria on the registration page. Online registration is available through the Tennessee State Parks system. ✅

⭐ Why This Hike Matters

The Day After Thanksgiving Hike connects visitors to a deeper story. The trails at Fiery Gizzard were built by Company 1475 of the Civilian Conservation Corps-young men who worked during the Great Depression to shape the park’s infrastructure and preserve its natural character. Walking these paths offers a tangible link to that history while celebrating the region’s enduring outdoor heritage. 🏞️

For residents and visitors across the Sequatchie Valley and Cumberland Plateau communities, the event represents an accessible way to spend time outdoors with family and friends without the stress of holiday shopping. It’s a reminder that the region’s state parks remain open year-round, offering quiet moments and guided discovery even during the busiest season. 💚

🎟️ How to Join

Register online at the Tennessee State Parks reservation system. The hike is free, but spots are limited and advance registration is required. For questions or more information, contact South Cumberland State Park at (888) 867-2757 or visit the park’s website. 📞