Fiery Gizzard
ATTENTION: THE RACE START AND FINISH HAVE CHANGED.
WE ARE NOW STARTING AND FINISHING AT THE FOSTER FALLS PARKING AREA.
Course Description:
The Fiery Gizzard Run offers both half and full marathon distances on one of the Top 25 Trails in the U.S. The trail features waterfalls, rock formations, and sweeping ridge-line overlooks. While sections of the course are smooth and runnable, runners will also encounter steep, technical descents into gorges that require careful attention. Please review the race layout closely and follow all instructions from the Race Director at the start. Full course details will be emailed approximately one week before race day.
Marathon Runners:
The marathon starts and finishes at the Foster Falls Trailhead. Runners will follow the Fiery Gizzard Trail north to the Grundy Forest Trailhead, turn around, and return to Foster Falls to complete the marathon.
Half Marathon Runners:
Half marathoners will complete one full traverse from the Grundy Forest Trailhead to the finish at Foster Falls.
Important Update for Half Marathon Participants:
Half marathon runners have two options for check-in:
Check-in early at Foster Falls BEFORE 8:00 AM, then drive to Grundy for the start.
Skip Foster Falls check-in and go directly to Grundy, where check-in opens at 8:30 AM CST.
The Half Marathon begins at 9:30 AM CST at the Grundy Forest Trailhead. After checking in (at either location), runners should ensure they are at Grundy and ready to start by 9:30 AM.
Passenger vans will be available to shuttle runners from the finish at Foster Falls back to Grundy to retrieve their vehicles after the race.
Pre-Race Details:
Check-In for Marathon Runners: Foster Falls
Check-in opens early morning. All marathon runners start at 8:00 AM at Foster Falls and finish at the same location.
Check-In for Half Marathon Runners:
• Option 1: Check in at Foster Falls BEFORE 8:00 AM, then drive to Grundy.
• Option 2: Check in directly at Grundy at 8:30 AM.
• The Half Marathon starts at 9:30 AM at Grundy.
All runners must secure their RFID chip to their left ankle and ensure their bib number matches their chip number.
Race Info
Race Info
Date: November 29, 2025
Location: 498 Foster Falls Rd, Sequatchie, TN 37374
United States
Capacity: 175 runners (capacity is regulated by park officials and is non-negotiable)
Marathon Start: 8:00 AM — Race ends at 5:00 PM at the Foster Falls Trailhead
Half Marathon: After you check in at Foster, please drive your vehicle to Grundy. You may also choose to check in at Grundy around 8:30 AM. The Half Marathon starts by 9:30 AM.
Entry Fee / Awards
Race shirts and other swag are not included in the race fee. You can add tees, hats, socks, and towels to your order during the registration process. If you’d like to guarantee yourself a race t-shirt, you must register before 11/15/2024.
Please note that a portion of the proceeds from this race goes directly back to the park, trail maintenance, and other efforts to keep this beautiful place thriving!
All runners will earn a custom Hardwin finisher award at the finish line. Additional awards will be given to the top male and female finishers in both the half and full marathon distances.
The Fiery Gizzard Run features both a half and full marathon on one of the Top 25 Trails in the U.S. Marathon runners will start at Foster Falls, run the entire Fiery Gizzard Trail to the Grundy trailhead, and then turn around and return to Foster Falls to finish. Half marathon runners will complete a single full traverse from Grundy to Foster Falls. The course includes stunning waterfalls, rock formations, and overlooks with sweeping views. Much of the route is flat ridge-line running, mixed with steep, technical descents into gorges. While the trail is well-maintained, some sections demand careful footing. Please read the race layout carefully and listen to all RD instructions at the start. The race layout will be emailed approximately one week before race day.
Cutoffs
The race ends at 5:00 PM at Foster Falls. All runners must finish by that time.
Marathon runners have 4.5 hours to reach the turnaround at the Grundy Trailhead and must reach Raven’s Point by 1:30 PM.
Aid Stations
Aid Stations
Due to limited access on the Fiery Gizzard trail, aid stations will be further apart than our typical events. You can expect 6-8 miles in between aid, so be sure to carry sufficient water and nutrition for these stretches.
Other
Medical Care/First Aid
**Important: Trail running is dangerous and can lead to injuries or death. There are portions of this trail which will require your focus and patience. If you're willing to accept these risks and still be humble, then we welcome you with open arms (this is not meant to dissuade you, only to be upfront and honest). Please note that we do not have a medical staff, but can provide you with basic first-aid once we get to you in the field. In short, you're on your own and responsible for your safety. In the event of a rescue, runners will incur all costs of such a rescue from the state. However, we will have basic first aid sweepers that can help you out if you need an extra hand.
Common Questions
Can I bring my dog? Yes, as long as it is leashed.
What is the elevation per 13 miles? Around 3,500ft.
Is this a full half and marathon distance? Yes, it is. We actually think it is slightly over due to the new trail. More trails for your money!!
Is there camping available? Yes, but please check with TN parks and reserve a spot through their site.
How technical is the trail? It is not easy but according to human mountain goat John Hardin, “I personally feel like it’s not too technical. There are a few small sections where you really need to watch your feet but that's about it.” Take that with a grain of salt knowing what you know about the Cumberland Plateau Stage Race and Music City Trail Ultra!
HardRuck
We’re excited to offer the Rucking Division again for each race. For those new to the concept, rucking involves walking or hiking with a weighted pack. The term comes from the military word “Rucksack,” meaning “Backpack.”t.
Weight Requirements:
Over 150lb: 20lb dry weight
Under 150lb: 10lb dry weight
Weigh-ins will occur 30 minutes before the race start—no weigh-in, no patch. The weight must be in the form of a steel ruck plate, weight vest blocks, bumper plates, or other items with clearly stamped weight. Participants may not remove or reduce the weight during the event and may face random checks at aid stations or anywhere on the course. We rely on the honor system, so please do the right thing.
Event's current local time: 6:42 PM ET
