Best Hiking Trails in Knoxville, Tennessee: Nature and Adventure in the Heart of East Tennessee
Best Hiking Trails in Knoxville, Tennessee: Nature and Adventure in the Heart of East Tennessee
Knoxville, Tennessee, is a treasure trove of outdoor adventures, with hiking trails that cater to every type of explorer. From urban escapes to rugged mountain climbs, the area offers diverse landscapes, ranging from serene riverfront paths to dense Appalachian forests. Here’s a roundup of the best hiking trails in and around Knoxville.
1. Ijams Nature Center - River Trail
- Distance: ~1 mile round trip.
- Difficulty: Easy.
- Why Go: This trail follows the Tennessee River and offers stunning water views, peaceful woods, and a family-friendly path. Combine it with other Ijams trails for a longer hike.
- Insider Tip: Check out the nearby Mead’s Quarry for kayaking or paddleboarding after your hike.
2. Sharp’s Ridge Memorial Park - Loop Trail
- Distance: ~2 miles round trip.
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate.
- Why Go: Known for its panoramic views of Knoxville and the Smoky Mountains, this ridge trail is perfect for a quick getaway with breathtaking scenery.
- Insider Tip: Visit at sunrise or sunset for the best lighting and fewer crowds.
3. House Mountain State Natural Area - West Overlook Trail
- Distance: ~4.5 miles round trip (loop).
- Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous.
- Why Go: As the highest point in Knox County, House Mountain offers unparalleled views of the Smoky and Cumberland Mountains. The climb is steep but rewarding.
- Insider Tip: Bring water and start early to avoid the midday heat on this challenging trail.
4. Seven Islands State Birding Park - Island Loop Trail
- Distance: ~1 mile round trip.
- Difficulty: Easy.
- Why Go: This riverside trail offers serene paths and excellent birdwatching opportunities, with over 200 bird species recorded in the area.
- Insider Tip: Pack binoculars to spot bald eagles, herons, and other local wildlife.
5. Concord Park - Lakeside Trail
- Distance: ~2.5 miles round trip.
- Difficulty: Easy.
- Why Go: This trail hugs the shoreline of Fort Loudoun Lake, offering scenic water views, shaded paths, and plenty of opportunities for picnics and fishing.
- Insider Tip: Extend your adventure by exploring the park’s additional trails and paddle sports options.
6. Panther Creek State Park - Point Lookout Trail
- Distance: 1.9 miles round trip.
- Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous.
- Why Go: This short but steep trail rewards hikers with stunning views of Cherokee Lake and the Appalachian foothills.
- Insider Tip: Visit during fall for breathtaking foliage that frames the overlook.
7. Frozen Head State Park - Chimney Top Trail
- Distance: 7 miles round trip.
- Difficulty: Strenuous.
- Why Go: Located about an hour from Knoxville, this trail offers a challenging climb to panoramic summit views of the Cumberland Plateau.
- Insider Tip: Check trail conditions before your hike, as higher elevations can experience sudden weather changes.
8. Haw Ridge Park - Old Mill Trail
- Distance: ~2.5 miles round trip.
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate.
- Why Go: Set along Melton Hill Lake, this trail provides a mix of forested paths and lakeside views, perfect for a tranquil day outdoors.
- Insider Tip: Combine this hike with a paddle on the lake for a full day of adventure.
9. Baker Creek Preserve - Devils Racetrack Trail
- Distance: ~2 miles round trip.
- Difficulty: Moderate.
- Why Go: Known for its dramatic ridgeline views and access to multi-use trails, this trail is a hit with hikers and mountain bikers alike.
- Insider Tip: Stop by South Knoxville’s local breweries after your hike for a refreshing drink.
10. Fort Dickerson Quarry Trail
- Distance: ~1 mile round trip.
- Difficulty: Easy.
- Why Go: This urban trail offers access to stunning quarry views, complete with turquoise waters and towering rock faces.
- Insider Tip: Bring a swimsuit during the summer to cool off in the quarry’s clear waters.
Knoxville’s hiking trails offer something for everyone, from casual walkers to seasoned adventurers. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful nature escape or a heart-pounding climb, these trails showcase the natural beauty and outdoor spirit of East Tennessee. Lace up your boots and start exploring!
Reviews
Thirteendays7 months ago
Having only spent one night in Knoxville, I decided to make this one of the few places to check out. I have to say, the pictures don't do this place justice! It is absolutely stunning! The nature center is small, but they do have some cool exhibits. $5 gets you 12 hours of parking, which is reasonable. This place will get busy, even on a weekday morning, so try to come early if you can. It also gets muggy/humid in the summer and you will want to put on some bug spray. The best trails are going to be the river trail, which will give you the views with the boardwalk, and the keyhole loop. The keyhole will give you the views of the old quarry. You will also want to check out the pink marble and Tharp trace trails as these also give outstanding views.
A Gentle Supportive Soul6 months ago
This very beautiful place is going to make your visit more memorable with the friendliness and genuine serving attitude of the staffs. They are really suitable for this job. The lady I met in the information table was consistently helpful and friendly as I have seen her talk to several new visitors including ofcourse myself.
Huge place but properly maintained. There are various parts of this big land so make sure you plan your way. A certain portion was closed when I went due to the falling rocks from the mountain whose video even went viral as some people were able to witness it live.
Bathroom and filtered water available at the Visitor’s Center and even a free wifi
Daniel Marshall3 months ago
Great place to visit… plenty of hiking trails… you can rent mountian bikes, kayaks, stand up paddle boards… the quarry is a great place to enjoy the water! Make sure to explore all the different parts of the area!
The Globaltrotter3 weeks ago
There are multi sites to park with driving distance in between.$5 fee per $12’hours regardless of site -open 24’hrs .Make sure you enter all letters of
your license number or get a red ticket.The pathways are steep and roots that are slippery and raided from the ground present a tripping hazard.Only partially wheelchair friendly.Clean bathrooms and boating closed in November.Nice man made lake and educational info throughout. Great for picnics.Bile friendly and tools for bike repair available.
Egg Queen Wanabee6 months ago
Date of visit: Sunday, 06/16/2024
Use Google Maps to locate.
Parking was paid via QR code. No trouble finding parking.
Nice nature center with lots of trails for exploring. We hiked the Tower Trail which leads to the River Trail and back to the center, in total about a 1 mile hike. There are some steep spots on this trail, including some steep stairs. Once you get to the river, it is beautiful.
Nature Center building has some exhibits as well as a gift shop. It looks like there might also be meeting rooms.
They have a calendar full of fun activities. We got to enjoy some bluegrass music in the afternoon.
Restroom was clean.
Definitely recommend, especially if you like to hike.
If you deem this review helpful please give it a 👍.
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