Climbing
There are several world-class rock climbing areas within South Cumberland and Savage Gulf State Parks. All rock climbing requires advance online registration. If you have not climbed before and want to try out climbing, please check with one of our staff members at any park Ranger Station, or with an SCSP uniformed Ranger, as the park periodically offers introductory climbing activities under the supervision of a trained instructor.
South Cumberland State Park
Foster Falls (trad and sport)
Most notable is the gorge just below Foster Falls, which includes both sport and trad routes, with some nicely overhung areas that will challenge even the experienced climber. The Foster Falls climbing area is about one mile from the Foster Falls parking area. Nearest camping is atop the bluff line, above the climbing area, at the Small Wild or Father Adamz campgrounds (see our Overnight Hikes page for more information). Car camping is available in the campground at the Foster Falls trailhead.
Denny Cove (trad and sport)
Denny Cove is notable for its tall and beautifully-formed cliffs, which are considered world-class by recreational rock climbers. Over 150 climbing routes are presently available to climbers; an online guidebook is available here, and a mini-guide can be downloaded here. For non-climbers, Denny Cove offers an excellent trail system, with a wonderful overlook of the Cove, and a 2-mile trail to double-drop Denny Falls, the signature natural feature of this area.
Savage Gulf State Park
Stone Door (rappelling & top-rope)
At Stone Door, climbing and rappelling is only allowed in the designated climbing area. Rappelling is not allowed in any areas of the park, except at Stone Door.
NEVER ATTEMPT CLIMBING WITHOUT PROPER SHOES, HARNESSES, ROPES AND PROTECTIVE GEAR. CLIMBING IS A DANGEROUS ACTIVITY AND SHOULD NOT BE ATTEMPTED BY NOVICES.
South Cumberland State Park
Foster Falls (trad and sport)
Most notable is the gorge just below Foster Falls, which includes both sport and trad routes, with some nicely overhung areas that will challenge even the experienced climber. The Foster Falls climbing area is about one mile from the Foster Falls parking area. Nearest camping is atop the bluff line, above the climbing area, at the Small Wild or Father Adamz campgrounds (see our Overnight Hikes page for more information). Car camping is available in the campground at the Foster Falls trailhead.
Denny Cove (trad and sport)
Denny Cove is notable for its tall and beautifully-formed cliffs, which are considered world-class by recreational rock climbers. Over 150 climbing routes are presently available to climbers; an online guidebook is available here, and a mini-guide can be downloaded here. For non-climbers, Denny Cove offers an excellent trail system, with a wonderful overlook of the Cove, and a 2-mile trail to double-drop Denny Falls, the signature natural feature of this area.
Savage Gulf State Park
Stone Door (rappelling & top-rope)
At Stone Door, climbing and rappelling is only allowed in the designated climbing area. Rappelling is not allowed in any areas of the park, except at Stone Door.
NEVER ATTEMPT CLIMBING WITHOUT PROPER SHOES, HARNESSES, ROPES AND PROTECTIVE GEAR. CLIMBING IS A DANGEROUS ACTIVITY AND SHOULD NOT BE ATTEMPTED BY NOVICES.
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Some Important Reminders
Both South Cumberland and Savage Gulf State Parks are ecological sanctuaries, and all features including plants and animals (living and dead), rocks, minerals, artifacts and fossils are protected by Tennessee State Law. Leave them as you find them. Violators are subject to prosecution. As in any wilderness environment, obvious hazards exist. Visitors are reminded to exercise care, stay on marked trails and be adequately prepared for backcountry trips. Know the length and difficulty of the trail you plan to take. Be aware of local sunset times, and how long it will take to reach your destination. There is no hiking in the park after dark! Filter all stream and spring source drinking water. Use special caution when approaching high bluffs. Be careful with fires and help keep your state park beautiful and natural. |
Rock Climbing Permits
are now issued online Rock climbers coming to South Cumberland or Savage Gulf State Parks to enjoy our amazing cliff lines now have the ability to get their climbing permits online through the Tennessee State Parks website. The online permitting system builds on the success of the Campground Reservation system that has now been in place for several years. The permitting system will give our Rangers a better idea of how many climbers are planning to come to the park on any given day, the sizes of their climbing groups, and where they plan to climb. Please remember to register before you come to climb in the Parks! |
