Best Backpacking Trails Near Knoxville, Tennessee

Knoxville, Tennessee is where the wilderness leans in close. Here, adventure isn’t an invitation—it’s a command. If you're looking for the Best Backpacking Trails Near Knoxville, Tennessee you've come to the right place. The city serves as the perfect launchpad for backpackers, offering proximity to some of the most stunning trails in the Southeast. Whether you’re chasing mountain summits, plunging waterfalls, or just a stretch of untamed solitude, Knoxville’s trails promise an experience that stays with you long after the dirt’s washed off your boots.

The Legendary Big South Fork

For those who crave a raw, untamed journey, the trails of Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area don’t disappoint. The John Muir Trail, a 9-mile trek named after the famed conservationist, is pure Appalachian grandeur. It winds through dense forests and past towering rock formations carved by time and weather. Along the way, you’ll find cliffside views that seem to stretch forever and rock shelters that once gave refuge to early settlers and travelers.

Pro tip: Start at Leatherwood Ford and work your way upriver for a day hike—or pitch your tent at one of the park’s many backcountry campsites. Just remember to pack your grit; the trail’s rugged personality doesn’t offer shortcuts.

The Smokies’ Hidden Soul: Middle Prong Trail

In the heart of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the Middle Prong Trail delivers a quieter kind of magic. This 8.3-mile trail is a sensory overload, where waterfalls thunder beside you and moss creeps over boulders like nature’s softest carpet. Once a hub for logging operations in the early 20th century, the trail is dotted with relics of the past, from old bridges to rusted rails.

Every step feels like peeling back the layers of history, revealing a land that has reclaimed itself with a vengeance. This trail is an absolute dream in spring when wildflowers bloom in a riot of color or in autumn when the forest is ablaze with reds and golds.

Frozen Head State Park: A True Tennessee Treasure

For those who value solitude, Frozen Head State Park is a revelation. The Chimney Top Trail, a grueling 7.6-mile round trip, earns its reputation as a rite of passage among Tennessee hikers. Ascend steep ridges, scramble over rocky outcrops, and earn the panoramic reward at the summit: a view that sweeps across the Cumberland Plateau and beyond.

Despite its tough terrain, this trail radiates peace, especially in the early morning when fog clings to the ridges. Arrive at the trailhead before sunrise to experience the golden light breaking over the hills—a spiritual moment for any backpacker.

Practical Backpacking Wisdom

Backpacking in Knoxville’s backyard is more than just an outdoor activity—it’s a relationship with the land. To do it justice, preparation is key.

Gear Up Smart

• Lightweight gear is a lifesaver on the steep trails; invest in a quality backpack and sturdy hiking boots.
• Water sources are abundant on these trails, but don’t forget a filtration system. Tennessee’s natural springs are a gift, but safety comes first.

When to Go

• Spring: Wildflowers paint the trails with every color imaginable.
• Fall: The foliage is straight out of a postcard.
• Winter: Fewer crowds and crisp air make it a season worth braving.

Trail Etiquette

• Respect wildlife. You’re in black bear country; carry bear spray and secure food properly.
• Leave no trace. Knoxville’s trails deserve to stay as wild as they feel.

Knoxville: The Gateway to Wilderness

Knoxville doesn’t just offer proximity to the trails—it embraces the outdoors as a way of life. When you’re back in the city, you’ll find local outfitters ready to prep you for your next adventure and breweries where you can toast your triumphs. It’s a city where wilderness and urban charm walk hand in hand.

So, whether you’re hiking to test your limits or to find serenity beneath the stars, Knoxville is ready to deliver. Its trails are more than paths; they’re portals to something primal, something untamed. Strap on your pack, pick your trail, and let Knoxville’s wild heart guide you.

Adventure Travel Guide To The Best Backpacking Trails Near Knoxville

Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area

• Trail Highlight: John Muir Trail
  • Distance: 9 miles one-way.
  • Features: Dramatic rock formations, forested pathways, and sweeping cliffside views.
  • Skill Level: Intermediate to advanced. Expect uneven terrain and steep climbs.
  • Tips:
    • Camp overnight to experience the remote beauty of the area.
    • Keep an eye out for wildlife; deer and foxes are common.
  • Getting There: Drive 1 hr 45 min north of Knoxville via I-75 N and TN-297.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

• Trail Highlight: Middle Prong Trail
  • Distance: 8.3 miles round trip.
  • Features: Cascading waterfalls, historic ruins, and lush greenery.
  • Best Seasons: Spring for wildflowers; fall for vivid autumn foliage.
  • Skill Level: Moderate. Steady inclines with well-maintained paths.
  • Getting There: Roughly 45 min from Knoxville via US-441 S.

Frozen Head State Park

• Trail Highlight: Chimney Top Trail
  • Distance: 7.6 miles round trip.
  • Features: Steep ascents, rocky terrain, and panoramic summit views.
  • Skill Level: Challenging. Requires strong endurance and hiking experience.
  • Tips: Start early for the best summit views; afternoon fog often rolls in.
  • Getting There: About 50 minutes west via I-40.

Additional Tips for Backpackers

• Always check the weather before heading out; storms can roll in quickly in the mountains.
• Permits may be required for certain trails; check local regulations in advance.