Knoxville, a vibrant city in East Tennessee, offers a wide array of biking experiences for cyclists of all levels. From challenging mountain trails to scenic road routes and gravel adventures, Knoxville has something for every biking enthusiast. This guide will explore the best options across these categories and highlight annual biking events in the area.
Mountain Biking in Knoxville
1. Urban Wilderness South Loop
- Distance: Approximately 12.5 miles
- Difficulty: Intermediate
- Highlights: This loop is a showcase of Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness, providing a mix of singletrack, doubletrack, and a few technical sections. Cyclists are treated to beautiful forest views, with convenient access to downtown Knoxville.
2. Concord Park
- Distance: Varies, with over 10 miles of trails
- Difficulty: All levels
- Highlights: Located on the shores of Fort Loudon Lake, Concord Park’s trails offer varying degrees of difficulty, with something for beginners through advanced riders. The park is a favorite for its lake views and well-maintained trails.
3. Loyston Point Trails
- Distance: Up to 25 miles of trails
- Difficulty: Beginner to Intermediate
- Highlights: Situated around Norris Lake, Loyston Point Trails are well known for their flowing nature. The trails provide an enjoyable ride with lake vistas. It’s perfect for an easy day out or challenging yourself on longer rides.
Gravel Biking in Knoxville
1. Haw Ridge Park
- Distance: Over 30 miles of trails
- Difficulty: Intermediate
- Highlights: Haw Ridge Park offers a variety of terrain including hills, forests, and several water crossings. The gravel paths here promise an engaging ride through a diverse landscape.
2. North Boundary Trails
- Distance: Up to 15 miles
- Difficulty: Intermediate
- Highlights: This area provides a network of gravel and dirt roads ideal for those looking to transition from road to gravel biking. The routes offer moderate climbs and are surrounded by lush vegetation.
Road Biking in Knoxville
1. Cherohala Skyway
- Distance: 43 miles
- Difficulty: Challenging
- Highlights: The Cherohala Skyway extends from Tellico Plains, TN, to Robbinsville, NC, offering a high-altitude ride with breathtaking views. It’s a must-ride for its smooth pavement and incredible mountain vistas.
2. The Tennessee River Ride
- Distance: Varies, up to 30 miles
- Difficulty: Beginner to Intermediate
- Highlights: Starting from downtown Knoxville, this ride takes cyclists alongside the Tennessee River. The route is scenic, with a mix of urban and natural landscapes, and relatively flat, making it accessible for all skill levels.
Annual Bike Events in Knoxville
1. Tour de Lights
- When: December
- What: A fun, festive bike ride through downtown Knoxville and North Knoxville neighborhoods, showcasing holiday lights and decorations. It’s a family-friendly event perfect for cyclists of all ages.
2. Knoxville Marathon Bike Tour
- When: Spring (usually March or April)
- What: This event allows cyclists to experience the marathon route on their bikes before the runners take the stage. It’s a unique way to see the city and enjoy a community event.
3. Dirty South Roubaix
- When: Early March
- What: This gravel race/ride takes participants through some of Knoxville’s backroads, combining challenging routes with the beauty of rural Tennessee. Suitable for those looking for a competitive gravel experience.
Conclusion
Knoxville, TN, stands out as an excellent destination for cycling enthusiasts. Whether you’re into mountain biking through lush forests, gravel grinding on backcountry roads, or enjoying scenic views on a road bike, Knoxville has a path for you. Alongside these trails and routes, the city’s annual biking events bring the cycling community together for both competitive and leisurely rides, making it a vibrant hub for cyclists in the Southeast. Remember to respect the trails, prepare adequately for your rides, and enjoy the incredible biking experiences Knoxville has to offer.
