The best cycling routes in Blount County

Blount County offers a diverse selection of touring cycling routes, with 12 routes currently available on komoot. These routes cater to various skill levels, including 9 easy, 2 moderate, and 1 difficult option.

The terrain in Blount County is quite varied, ranging from flat, paved greenways to rolling hills and more challenging mountain ascents within the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains. You'll find river valleys, rural back roads, and scenic parkways, offering a mix of experiences for touring cyclists.

Yes, Blount County has several family-friendly options. The Maryville-Alcoa Greenway offers over 18 miles of flat, paved trails, perfect for a leisurely ride. Routes like the Cades Cove Loop Road loop from Townsend are also popular for their scenic, vehicle-free days, providing a safe and enjoyable experience for families.

Many routes in Blount County offer stunning natural beauty. The Cades Cove Loop Road loop from Townsend provides scenic views within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. For those seeking waterfalls, you might find routes that pass near natural monuments like Abrams Falls, Spruce Flats Falls, or Lynn Camp Cascades.

Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in Blount County are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Old Walland Highway loop from Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center and the Rocky Mountain – The Townsend Wye loop from Townsend.

The touring cycling routes in Blount County are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from over 20 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, the beautiful scenery, and the well-maintained paths that make for an enjoyable riding experience.

Absolutely. For experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, the Rocky Mountain – The Townsend Wye loop from Townsend is classified as difficult, featuring mountainous terrain and significant elevation changes. The Foothills Parkway also offers strenuous sections with substantial climbing, appealing to riders looking for a more intense workout.

Yes, Blount County's routes often weave through areas rich in history. The Old Walland Highway loop from Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center passes by historical points of interest. Additionally, the Townsend Historical Trail runs alongside attractions like the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center and the Little River Railroad Museum.

Beginners have several excellent options. Routes like the Bike loop from Cedar Bluff and the Greenbelt Lake (Dry Riverbed) – Greenbelt Lake loop from Maryville are rated as easy, offering gentle gradients and manageable distances. The Maryville-Alcoa Greenway is also a great starting point for those new to touring cycling.

While many routes are paved, Blount County also provides gravel paths for those who enjoy a mixed-surface experience. These paths allow riders to explore serene backroads and historical landmarks, offering a middle ground between road and off-road cycling.

Blount County is enjoyable for touring cycling across multiple seasons. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, with wildflowers in spring and colorful foliage in autumn. Summer can be warm, but routes within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park or along river valleys provide cooler options. Winter cycling is possible, though conditions may vary.

Many popular trailheads and starting points for touring cycling routes in Blount County offer designated parking areas. For example, routes starting from Townsend or near the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center typically have parking facilities available for cyclists.