Hi, everyone!
First off, I want to give a major shoutout to reader Nastassja Hagan for the picture she sent us of the trail we’re featuring today. She recently did the out-and-back Foster Falls to Raven Point trail section of Fiery Gizzard – which included the Foster Falls Climbers Loop trail – as a combination trail hike and run, and enjoyed the beautiful scenery. Scroll down to see some of it.
The whole Fiery Gizzard trail is known to be a hard hike, but it’s well worth the gorgeous overlooks and views. That said, the Foster Falls Climbers Loop, which takes you from Foster Falls to the Small Wilds area, is not only accessible, but also not as well known compared to other sections of Fiery Gizzard.
Fiery Gizzard: Foster Falls Climbers Loop
- Type: Loop
- Distance: 2.0 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Drive Time from Downtown: 42 minutes
- Dog Friendly: Yes
- Highlights: waterfall, scenic overlook
- Directions and more information from AllTrails
Hagan recommended this trail because of the beautiful scenery – Foster Falls is gorgeous in the fall – and its accessibility. AllTrails describes this trail as “moderately trafficked.” Several sections of the hike are rocky, so make sure to wear good shoes. Primarily used for hiking, running and rock climbing, the trail has an elevation gain of 406 feet. Expect some great views as you make your way around the loop, following the Fiery Gizzard towards the Small Wilds Campground.
On AllTrails, hiker B.H. warns that “when you get to the steps at the end of the rock face go up, that’s the continuation of the loop.”
Erin F. notes that “This was one of the best trails I have done in a while! There’s a great mix of rock stairs, manmade bridges, both flat and rocky terrain and the opportunity to walk right along rock walls to see climbers, including their chalk rock holds. Highly recommend doing the entire loop!”
Get out there and let us know how you like the trail, and remember to send photos to editor@getoutchatt.com for us to feature in next week’s newsletter, or send us ideas of future trails you think we should cover.
Happy Trails!