We Did the Research, This Is Officially the Silliest Hiking Trail Name in Tennessee

Most hiking trails in Tennessee are named after Native American tribes, an early settler, the flora/fauna in the region, or they’re a Biblical reference. That's actually true for most of the hiking trails in the country. One of the silliest hiking trail names I’ve seen in a while is the Fiery Gizzard trail near Chattanooga. It might be the silliest hiking trail name in Tennessee, but make no mistake—this trail is serious. Seriously strenuous, that is!

Before you park at the trailhead, make sure you know what you’re signing up for. The Fiery Gizzard Loop is one of the most challenging trails in Tennessee. You’ll be scrambling over boulder gardens for two miles, hiking up steep ascents, and keeping an eye out for snakes along the way. This isn’t a trail for beginners, but it’s an incredible trail to challenge yourself and take your hiking game to the next level. Make sure you have the proper hiking gear, including a trail map and plenty of water. 

Many reviews recommend doing this trail counterclockwise to make it slightly easier on the way back. If you go counterclockwise, you’ll be doing the rock hopping section first, which can save your knees some ache later on. I think it’s always better to do the harder portion of the trail first, when you have the most energy. 

This part of the trail is well marked, so make sure you keep an eye out for the blazes. It’s easy to get lost when you’re scrambling over a rocky area for a few miles, so make sure you’re paying attention to the direction you’re heading. There’s no shame in calling it and turning around. Remember, the best view of the day is the view of your car—that’s always the goal. 

Just before you reach Raven’s Point, you’ll be questioning everything. Press on, stalwart soldier! This breathtaking view is waiting for you.

So, how did the Fiery Gizzard Trail earn its name? Well, we have a fish to thank! The American gizzard shad populated the waterways in the region (particularly the nearby creek of the same name). “Fiery” referred to the water’s former turbulence. As humans are want to do, many legends of the trail’s moniker have risen over time. One of my favorites is that Davy Crockett burned his tongue on a gizzard and spat it into the gorge. Another tale tells the story of a Native American Chief who threw a turkey gizzard into a fire to get the Europeans' attention at a peace meeting. 

If you have the stamina to tackle the strenuous terrain, you’ll be rewarded with ancient Hemlock trees, majestic waterfalls, refreshing swimming holes, incredible rock formations, and glorious views. It’s a hike that takes a lot out of you, but gives back just as much. 

Share this article with someone you want to hike the Fiery Gizzard Trail with! If you’re not up for this hike, don’t worry; we’ve got plenty of short and sweet hikes in Tennessee that lead to incredible views.