News Talk 94.1/AM 1600 Where The Upper Cumberland Talks
Saturday marked the 50th anniversary of the Natural Areas Act and Burgess Falls was one of the first to be dedicated.
Park Manager Bill Summers said it was enacted to protect Tennessee’s most unique pieces of nature. Summers said that Burgess Falls is unique itself, out of nearly 100 natural areas, Burgess Falls is one of the few with a commissioned staff.
“Ecologically, biologically unique areas in the state of Tennessee,” Summers said. “Very little development to preserve in perpetuity or forever, along with Tennessee State Parks but there’s a higher order of protection in the state natural areas.”
Summers said that despite there being limited amenities, he has seen interest in Burgess Falls skyrocket recently. He said 15 years ago they averaged 60,000 visitors a year, that number reached over 250,000 in 2020 for the 400 acre area.
“We’re exceptionally lucky, especially in the Upper Cumberland. We have a lot of jewels and gems that are close by,” Summers said. “Burgess was set aside initially and Window Cliffs… After the Natural Areas Act was passed 50 years ago, it was an area of interest but we did not having willing sellers. Then seven years ago we had willing sellers and were able to add it legislatively and add it as a state natural area under the management of Burgess Falls.”
Burgess Falls has a planned hike to celebrate the anniversary, but Summers said that filled up quickly. He said these days if someone is planning to take part in an event there, they have to sign up early.
“Anytime of year is good to get out to the state natural areas and state parks and enjoy the day, every season they’re beautiful,” Summers said. “Just keep in mind that we typically fill up on many weekends, we’re very popular. So that’s something to keep in mind as people plan their trip.”
Burgess Falls is a state park and level two natural area. Summers said that level two designation allows for slight development in the park compared to more ecologically and geologically sensitive areas.
