Things to do in Cumberland Plateau Tennessee

The funky artistic renditions of goats participating in various forms of goat merriment that adorn the building’s exterior will be what draws you in to the Mountain Goat Market first. But it’s the food that’ll keep you coming back. They’ve got breakfast, an espresso bar, artisanal sandwiches, desserts and even awesome pizzas. And all around the store are eclectic finds of all kinds that you’ll want to bring home. When you roll into Monteagle - your best jump-off point for all the South Cumberland Plateau has to offer - snag your breakfast and coffee here. You’ll be fueled up and ready to kick the exploration into overdrive, especially if you’re planning to explore nearby state parks.

• Parking: Small on-site lot with limited street parking nearby
• Accessibility: Ground-level entry with generally accessible seating areas
• Destination Highlights: Cozy local café known for breakfast, baked goods and community vibe
• Operational Hours: Open daily for breakfast and lunch with select dinner service nights
   

Stepping onto the 13,000-acre grounds of Sewanee really is like a walk through another time and place. This liberal arts college was founded before the Civil War by delegates from 10 dioceses of the Episcopal Church and while it retains a world-renowned School of Theology to this day, it is also well known for the School of Letters where students study creative writing and American literature. The handsome stone architecture (particularly the All Saints’ Chapel) and the Memorial Cross have become iconic photo spots. And conveniently to visitors, the on-campus Sewanee Inn may be the region’s best lodging option. For those wondering what cities are in the Cumberland Plateau, Sewanee is one of the most scenic stops.

• Parking: Free visitor parking available throughout campus
• Accessibility: Mix of accessible facilities with some uneven terrain in historic areas
• Destination Highlights: Scenic 13,000-acre campus with Gothic architecture and hiking trails
• Operational Hours: Grounds open daily from dawn to dusk; building hours vary
   

The Dutch Maid Bakery & Cafe has a history as rich as its baked goods. First opened in 1902 by a couple of Swiss immigrants, it is Tennessee’s oldest family-owned bakery. Many of the tools of the baker’s trade - mixers, ovens - are original to the bakery’s early days, a nod to its heritage from the bakery’s new owner. Pastries, breads, eclairs, fritters and all else behind Dutch Maid’s glass counters are each made from scratch, on site and by hand. And the adjoining cafe’s soup, sandwich and salad offerings make this a perfect refueling stop after a trip hiking or climbing in the Head of the Crow State Park.

• Parking: Free lot adjacent to the bakery
• Accessibility: Step-free entry with a small, navigable interior
• Destination Highlights: Tennessee’s oldest family-owned bakery known for breads and pastries
• Operational Hours: Open mornings through mid-afternoon; closed Sundays
   

Speaking of state parks, the notorious Fiery Gizzard Trail in Fire Gizzard State Park is a 13-mile, one-way trail that Backpacker Magazine has listed as one of its favorite hikes in the US. Stone Door in the neighboring Savage Gulf State Park is a geological wonder that cannot be properly contended into words and featured in a photograph. If you’re looking for day trip hiking near Crossville, TN, this is a must. 

Opportunities for rock climbing abound at Firey Gizzard State Park, along with the two others in the surrounding area, the aforementioned Savage Gulf State Park and Head of the Crow State Park. Foster Falls and Denny Cove are world-class sports climbing spots that range in grade across nearly 250 routes. These challenging sandstone bluffs attract climbers from all over North America, and for this reason, Tennessee State Parks requires all climbers to obtain a permit, which are available online or by calling the park office itself. 

In Tennessee, Cumberland Plateau campgrounds are plentiful as well with all three of these state parks offering camping options. For the naturalist and outdoors enthusiast, this area is a highlight of any Cumberland Plateau tour.

• Parking: Designated trailhead parking lots available on-site
• Accessibility: Limited due to steep, rocky trails and natural terrain
• Destination Highlights: Waterfall, swimming hole, camping, hiking and world-class rock climbing
• Operational Hours: Open daily from sunrise to sunset
   

The Caverns, an underground music pavilion created by water over eons, is home to The Caverns Sessions, featuring artists in various genres like EDM, rock, punk, country, bluegrass and more. Attending a concert at the Caverns is an unforgettable experience, and the perfect way to end your visit to the South Cumberland Plateau of Tennessee. If you’ve ever wondered “where is the Cumberland Plateau?”, this immersive setting brings it to life in a truly unique way.

• Parking: Large free on-site parking with overflow during events
• Accessibility: Accessible concert areas with some uneven cave terrain
• Destination Highlights: Underground music venue offering concerts and cave tours
• Operational Hours: Hours vary based on event and tour schedule

Unique structures both natural and man-made, homemade dishes and desserts, history and music are just waiting to be discovered in the southern portion of the Cumberland Plateau in Tennessee.