The best road cycling routes in Blount County

Blount County offers a diverse network of over 50 road cycling routes. These routes cater to various skill levels, ranging from leisurely rides through flatlands to challenging climbs in mountainous areas, all on perfectly paved roads.

Blount County's road cycling routes feature a varied terrain, including rolling hills, mountainous sections in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, and flatlands. You'll find perfectly paved roads winding through charming towns and rural areas, with scenic river valleys like the Little River adding to the picturesque views.

Yes, Blount County offers several easy road cycling routes. For a less strenuous experience, the Covered Bridge Over the River loop from Perry's Mill Dam is an easy 22.7-mile trail through rural landscapes. Another accessible option is the Greenbelt Lake loop from McGhee Tyson Airport, which is 21.8 miles with minimal elevation change. The Maryville-Alcoa Greenway also provides extensive flat, paved trails ideal for leisurely cycling.

For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, Blount County offers routes with substantial elevation changes. The Cycling Route Through Forest loop from Rich Mountain Gap is a difficult 44.1-mile path with over 1000 meters of ascent. Another demanding option is the Look Rock – Parking at Tail of the Dragon loop from Lower McCammon Island, a difficult 92.5-mile route featuring over 1500 meters of climbing.

Many routes offer stunning views of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. You might encounter historical structures in Cades Cove, or enjoy the scenic beauty of the Little River. For specific natural attractions, consider exploring Abrams Falls or Spruce Flats Falls. The View of Cades Cove Valley loop from Townsend offers views of the historic Cades Cove Valley.

Yes, Cades Cove, located within the Great Smoky Mountains, features an 11-mile scenic loop. On specific days from May through September, this loop is vehicle-free, providing a peaceful and unique experience for cyclists to enjoy its historical structures and abundant wildlife, including deer, turkeys, and bears.

The spring and fall seasons are generally ideal for road cycling in Blount County, offering pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, especially with the changing foliage in autumn. While summer is also popular, be prepared for warmer weather. Winter cycling is possible, but conditions can vary, particularly in higher elevations.

The komoot community highly rates road cycling in Blount County, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 9 reviews. Cyclists often praise the region's diverse landscapes, from tranquil rural roads to challenging mountain climbs, and the perfectly paved surfaces. The scenic views of the Great Smoky Mountains and the variety of routes for all skill levels are frequently highlighted.

Yes, Blount County offers several longer routes for endurance cyclists. The Look Rock – Parking at Tail of the Dragon loop from Lower McCammon Island is a challenging 92.5-mile route. Another substantial option is the Covered Bridge Over the River – View of Bates Mountain loop from Perry's Mill Dam, which spans nearly 62 miles with significant elevation.

While most road cycling routes focus on paved roads, the region surrounding Blount County is rich in natural beauty, including waterfalls. You can find stunning waterfalls like Abrams Falls, Spruce Flats Falls, and Lynn Camp Cascades in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which are often accessible via short hikes from points near cycling routes.

Public transport options directly to specific road cycling trailheads in Blount County may be limited. It is generally recommended to use personal vehicles for transport to starting points, especially for routes in more rural or mountainous areas. Parking is typically available at various trailheads and points of interest throughout the county.