The Stone Door Trail delivers one of the best reward-to-effort ratios in Tennessee hiking. In under a mile, you’ll reach a dramatic overlook where a 100-foot crack splits the cliff face like a door left ajar—with panoramic views across Savage Gulf stretching to the horizon.
Located in Savage Gulf State Park (part of the South Cumberland system), this trail is perfect for families, casual hikers, or anyone who wants stunning scenery without an all-day commitment. It’s about 45 minutes from fosters cabins, making it an easy day trip.
Trail Overview
Distance: 2 miles out-and-back (to Stone Door and back) Difficulty: Easy Elevation gain: ~170 feet Time: 45 minutes to 1.5 hours Trailhead: Stone Door Ranger Station, Beersheba Springs, TN
The trail starts paved and wheelchair-accessible for the first quarter mile, then transitions to a well-maintained dirt path through forest. Roots and rocks add some texture, but nothing technical.
Getting There
Address: Stone Door Ranger Station, 1183 Stone Door Rd, Beersheba Springs, TN 37305
From fosters cabins, head north on US-41 through Tracy City, then follow signs to Savage Gulf / Stone Door. The drive is approximately 45 minutes.
Parking: Free parking at the ranger station with ample space.
Facilities: Restrooms, drinking water, and a picnic area at the trailhead.
The Great Stone Door
The trail’s namesake is a geological wonder: a 100-foot deep crack, up to 15 feet wide, splitting a massive section of cliff from the main wall. It looks exactly like a giant stone door left slightly open.
A narrow bridge crosses over the split, leading to a rock outcropping that juts into the gorge. From here, you get 180-degree views across Savage Gulf—one of the most photographed spots in South Cumberland.
Safety note: There are no railings at the overlooks. Keep a close eye on children and pets near the cliff edges.
Overlooks Along the Trail
The Stone Door isn’t the only viewpoint. The trail passes several overlooks worth stopping at:
Laurel Gulf Overlook (0.2 miles) — The first overlook, accessible via paved path. Views into Laurel Creek gorge. Wheelchair accessible.
Split Rock Overlook (0.3 miles) — Views of the Stone Door cliffs from a distance.
Stone Door Overlook (0.9 miles) — The main attraction. Cross the bridge for the full experience.
Extended Hikes
If you want more mileage, the Stone Door trailhead connects to longer routes in Savage Gulf:
Big Creek Rim Trail to Sinks Overlook (5 miles out-and-back) Continue 1.6 miles past the Stone Door along the rim to the Sinks Overlook, where Big Creek disappears underground through limestone. This adds moderate distance while staying relatively level.
Big Creek Gulf Loop (various distances) For experienced hikers, trails descend into the gulf and loop back via the rim. These are strenuous all-day or overnight hikes.
Connector to Greeter Falls Savage Gulf connects to the Greeter Falls area via the South Rim Trail, though this is a longer undertaking.
Best Time to Visit
Spring: Wildflowers bloom along the rim. The gulf is lush green. Comfortable temperatures.
Fall: Peak leaf season (late October) brings stunning color across the plateau. This is the most popular time—arrive early.
Summer: Hot but manageable. Morning hikes recommended. The tree canopy provides shade for most of the trail.
Winter: Quieter trails, occasional ice formations. Views are more open with leaves down.
What to Bring
- Comfortable walking shoes (trail is easy but roots/rocks require closed-toe footwear)
- Water
- Camera (you’ll want it)
- Snacks for the overlook
- Layers in cooler months
Where to Stay
fosters cabins are about 45 minutes from the Stone Door trailhead—an easy morning trip. Combine Stone Door with a visit to nearby Greeter Falls or make it part of a full day exploring Savage Gulf.
The cabins put you central to both Savage Gulf (north) and Foster Falls / Denny Cove (south), letting you explore the full range of South Cumberland hiking during your stay.
Nearby Attractions
- Greeter Falls — Another popular waterfall hike in Savage Gulf, about 15 minutes from Stone Door
- Foster Falls — 60-foot waterfall and swimming hole, 2 minutes from fosters cabins
- Fiery Gizzard Trail — Tennessee’s famous 12.5-mile hike
Planning a hiking trip to South Cumberland? Book a cabin and explore Stone Door, Greeter Falls, and more from fosters cabins.