The best cycling routes in Knox County

There are 5 touring cycling routes detailed in this guide for Knox County. All of them are rated as easy, making them accessible for various skill levels.

Knox County offers a diverse cycling landscape. While the routes in this guide are primarily flat and follow waterways like Lewis and Clark Lake and Lake Yankton, the broader region features a mix of urban greenways, rolling hills, and rural backroads. You can transition from cityscapes to green spaces and river vistas quickly.

Yes, several routes in the area are loops. For example, the Lake Yankton loop offers a scenic 10.4-mile ride around the lake. Another option is the Gavins Point Dam loop via Toe Road, which is a longer 19.7-mile circular route.

Many touring cycling routes in Knox County offer beautiful waterside scenery. For instance, the Lewis and Clark Lake Trail provides views of Lewis and Clark Lake. The region also boasts the Tennessee River, the Urban Wilderness with quarry lakes, and various greenways that connect parks and natural areas.

Yes, all the touring cycling routes featured in this guide are rated as easy, making them suitable for families and beginners. The extensive greenway system in Knox County is also ADA-accessible and connects many parks, providing safe and enjoyable options for all ages. The Baker Creek Preserve, part of the Urban Wilderness, even has a kids' bicycle pump track.

Knox County benefits from mild Tennessee weather, which allows for year-round cycling. Spring and fall generally offer the most comfortable temperatures and vibrant scenery, but the extensive greenway system and natural trails can be enjoyed throughout the year.

While the routes in this guide are rated easy, Knox County offers options for longer rides. Beyond the greenways, south and east Knoxville feature rural backroads that can be combined for routes ranging from 30-40 miles, or even longer rides up to 60-70 miles from downtown Knoxville to destinations like Look Rock on the Foothills Parkway.

Many greenways and trailheads in Knox County offer designated parking areas. For specific routes, it's advisable to check local maps or resources for the most convenient parking access points. The region's extensive trail network is designed to be accessible, often with parking available at connected parks or recreational areas.

Knox County is rich in outdoor activities. Besides cycling, you can enjoy hiking and trail running in the Urban Wilderness, birdwatching at Seven Islands State Birding Park, or flatwater paddling at Mead's Quarry. Historical sites like Fort Dickerson and natural attractions such as the Knoxville Botanical Garden & Arboretum also offer opportunities for exploration.

Absolutely. House Mountain, the highest peak in Knox County, offers challenging hikes and panoramic views. The Urban Wilderness features beautiful quarry lakes and over 50 miles of trails. For a unique geological experience, Cherokee Caverns is open for special events; you can find more information at historiccherokeecaverns.com.

For comprehensive details on the extensive greenway system and other trails in Knox County, you can visit the official tourism website. A good starting point is visitknoxville.com/things-to-do/outdoors/trails-greenways/, which provides information on paved and natural trails.