The Cumberland Plateau is known as one of the most beautiful and untouched areas of Southeast Tennessee, and Grundy County is at its heart. Easily accessible from I-24, a visit to this area any time of year begins at Monteagle, which is a great stop for good food, craft and gift shops and a variety of lodging options. Book a room at the quaint Adams-Edgeworth Inn or the Monteagle Inn, located in the historic Monteagle Assembly grounds: Either way, you can’t go wrong.

The University of the South in Sewanee, just west of Monteagle, merits a visit. This quiet campus is loaded with charm and contains homes and structures dating back to before the Civil War. While small in size, the school is large in stature when it comes to academic excellence and ambiance. Nature lovers heading east from Monteagle on Highway 56 will pass the South Cumberland State Park Headquarters on the way to Tracy City. This is a must stop for those wishing to explore the fantastic wilderness opportunities on the Cumberland Plateau in Grundy County.

Check out favorites like Savage Gulf Natural Area and its Great Stone Door, or the Fiery Gizzard Trail for unrivaled plateau splendor. Foster Falls and Greeter Falls are worth the walk. Tracy City is home to the Old Dutch Maid Bakery, established in the 1880’s. Tennessee ‘s oldest family bakery is still run by the descendants of the original Swiss master chef. Visit the Tracy City Coke Ovens that evidence the mining industry that dominated the area in the late 19th century. Deep in Grundy County, you’ll find Altamont, with bed and breakfasts, and charming Beersheba Springs with its classic hotel built in 1838 as a spa and retreat for the elite.

Grundy County is a very diverse area if you are an avid outdoors person. If you are interested in hiking, biking, fishing, camping, hunting, rock climbing, rappelling, or just a simple walk and nature study look no further. It is all available within the Cumberland Plateau, the largest remaining forested plateau in the continental United States. Visitors will be amazed viewing spectacular rock formations, beautiful waterfalls, cascading streams, rocky gorges, panoramic overlooks and lush woodland.