Frozen Head State Park & Debord Falls Directions

 Frozen Head State Park & Debord Falls Directions

Wednesday June 18, 2025

Dana Koogler 

   I recently became aware that there are quite a few people who do not know where Frozen Head State Park is or that it exists.  We have had a lot of people move into our area so this isn't a surprise.

I've encountered quite a few East Tennesseans who don't know anything about it.  I thought to remedy that by typing up some simple directions.  I am sticking to the main park near the visitor center and as far up as Debord Falls for now.  

   

Here is a link to a photo album that shows off Frozen Head and many of the wonders it contains.

I have not covered all the trails,  but if you're like me, seeing pictures helps me decide. 

  

  Another selling point for me that makes Frozen Head appealing?  No crowds!

Several playgrounds, numerous picnic areas, creeks to play in, waterfalls, Spring wildflowers, 

and it is dog friendly if they are leashed.  There are bathrooms scattered around and plenty of parking.  No parking permits required as there are in the Great Smoky Mountains.  

Frozen Head State Park Pix 

Below:  The lookout tower atop Frozen Head Mountain. It gets its name from the fact it often has snow or hoar frost up there while down below there is color! 

Below: Emory Gap Falls which is further out the trail past Debord Falls. 

Below: Debord Falls in Summer

Below: granddaughters Mia age 4 and Tessa age 12 are checking out a crawdad they caught. This is at Debord Falls. 

Driving Directions: 

From the intersection of Knoxville Highway 62 and Flat Fork Road in Wartburg turn onto Flat Fork Road and follow it four miles to the visitor center on your right.  They have maps, souvenirs, gear, restrooms, guidebooks, maps, and helpful info. 

From here continue to drive another 1/2 mile to a fork in the road. Take the right fork and follow it out past the group camping . The road ends at the trailhead and there is parking and a vault toilet.   You will have driven 1 mile total from the visitor center.  

Hiking Directions to Debord Falls

  The hike begins just past the gate at the east end of the parking area. Stay on the main trail for a little over 1/2 mile. You will come to a slight rise in the trail and when it levels off there is a sign for Debord Falls on the right. Turn right and follow the path to the stairs down to the base of the falls.  

Below is a video of the falls from 2022 when all the kids were along