From episode #2110: The nationally recognized Fiery Gizzard Trail is thought by many to be one of the most iconic and important trail systems in Tennessee. Making its way through the heart of the South Cumberland Plateau, the trail features pristine streams, waterfalls, panoramic vistas, and rocky outcrops. For years, hikers have come from near and far to enjoy the rugged beauty of this special place. But even Fiery Gizzard is not immune from the heavy hand of man. Just two years ago a group planned to develop key portions of land along the trail. Fortunately their plans fell through. Now work is being done to keep developers away from Fiery Gizzard forever. Wild Side Guide Ken Tucker takes us to the trail to find out what is being done to protect it.
Visit The Land Trust for Tennessee website to learn more about the Fiery Gizzard Trail and how you can help preserve it. While most of the private money required to fund the transaction has already been donated, there is still money needed to complete the project. This preservation effort is hopefully not the last in the area. The Land Trust for Tennessee is in the process of identifying other tracts of land near the trail that need protection.
Another great way to learn more about the area and take an active role in protecting it is to join the Friends of South Cumberland Recreation Area…visit their website to learn more. They even have a map you can download and print by clicking this link.
Much of the Fiery Gizzard is part of the South Cumberland State Park. Visit their website to learn more about the many outdoor opportunities available at the park. To learn more about the details of the Fiery Gizzard preservation effort, including the role played by the State of Tennessee, visit http://news.tennesseeanytime.org/node/5963
Here are some other links with information about the Fiery Gizzard:
www.secretfalls.com/hiking/215-fiery-gizzard-trail
www.scoutitout.org/mediawiki/index.php?title=Fiery_Gizzard_Trail
http://away.com/outside/magazine/0393/933deten.html
www.conservationfund.org/southeast/tennessee/fiery-gizzard
www.trails.com/tcatalog_trail.aspx?trailid=HGD057-038
