Outdoors
in Knoxville, TN

(865) 436-1200

Cades Cove is more than just a jaw-dropping photo-opportunity. This valley is surrounded by the Great Smoky Mountains, and no matter what the weather is like, you'll definitely capture some highly memorable shots. In addition to that, you can also visit some amazing, primitive structures and observe some of the Smoky Mountain wildlife along the way.

(865) 577-4717

The City of Knoxville Parks and Recreation Department along with Ijams Nature Center offers a chance to learn the sport of canoeing. Classes are offered on a regular basis. There are few requirements for interested children and adults other than you need to know how to swim. It's a great way to not only get a little exercise, but to also see some of Knoxville's natural beauty from a completely different perspective.

(423) 476-9700

Cherokee National Forest invites you to take a hike! Hiking enthusiasts cite Cherokee National Forest as a big favorite for lots of reasons. This expansive, 625,000-acre national forest features more than 105 well-marked trails that lead to some unforgettable vistas or look-out points. The outdoor trails also accommodate horseback riders and mountain bikers.

(865) 966-5831

You'll find it difficult to sit still when you visit Concord Marina. From there, you'll be struck by the several picnic areas and open spaces that are inviting for leisurely walks, a quick jog or even taking your pet out for a stroll in the great outdoors. There are also tennis courts, a place to play roller hockey, and a play ground for the kids. Another popular amenity is the outdoor swimming pool that is open during the summer months. The 450-acre park is surrounded by winding trails that are perfect for running or in-line skating.

(865) 215-6600

The Concord Park Hiking Trail is a 6-mile trail that can be found in one of the city's most popular parks. The scenery is quite picturesque with various shades of greenery and an excellent view of the lake. The trail itself is not too challenging, so if you are new to hiking, it is a great way to start, but be on the lookout for bikers and other recreation lovers as they like to use the trail as well.

(423) 248-5766

History and nature intertwine perfectly at Cumberland Gap National Historical Park. This is the largest historical park in the country. Located 60 miles north of downtown, this park attracts visitors and locals alike because of its several outdoor amenities that include various picnic areas and trails for hiking, biking and horseback riding. The historical component of the park is displayed quite prominently and numerous examples of Native American history are featured at various vantage points. Another big draw for kids and adults alike is the mile-long tunnel through a mountain that must be traveled through to get to the park.

(865) 556-3869

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Giddy up! Head over to the Douglas Lakeview Riding Stables and experience a horseback riding adventure. Whether you want to ride for an hour or four, Douglas Lakeview Riding Stables offers 200 acres of trails rolling through a beautiful natural landscape. The trails boast scenic views of Douglas Lake and the Smoky Mountains. If you've never ridden before, no problem! Your guides will take it slow.

(865) 544-7840

The Ed Cothren Pool is a great place for outdoor fun when the weather heats up. Costing only $1.50 per person per visit, there's little reason not to make a splash at this recreational pool. Have fun, get some exercise, and stay cool.

(865) 453-5972

Sevierville is home to some of the most amazing caverns in the state. Visit underground to see these awe-inspiring caves, grottoes and streams. Forbidden Caverns is famous for its numerous calcite formations as well as a huge wall of dripstones which are said to be one of the biggest in the world.

(865) 436-1200

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park has the distinction of being the most visited national park in the country, and with good reason. The park sprawls out over an impressive 520,000 acres that include 735 miles of streams and 800 miles of some of the most scenic hiking trails in the world. The mountainous views are nothing short of amazing, with the highest point reaching over 6,000 feet. For information and a place to rest, look for several visitor centers throughout the park.

(855) 425-4339

The Haw Ridge Hiking Trail is commonly thought of as a jewel right in Knoxville's own back yard. The recreation trail is actually located in Oak Ridge, a short eleven miles away from Knoxville, and the trail is an 11-mile trek that proves to be a challenging, somewhat strenuous hike that takes the average hiker about 5 hours to complete.

(865) 215-6600

The House Mountain Hiking Trail is convenient for hikers who don't have much time to travel to the outskirts of town to get in a satisfying hike. This short but challenging recreational trek is 4 miles round trip and takes approximately four and a half hours.

(865) 862-8717

The kids will love learning about flowers, plants and all the other natural wonders that inhabit the Knoxville Botanical Gardens and Arboretum. This 44-acre garden features an historic landscape that is adorned with foliage and plants that are not only indigenous to the area, but also combine to create a natural oasis that is as relaxing as it is beautiful. There is also a plant nursery on site that houses even more picturesque greenery.

(865) 215-2090

Krutch Park is somewhat of an oasis for city-dwelling nature lovers. This very popular park is located in the downtown area, and is a favorite outdoor destination for office workers who brown bag their lunch and find a spot on the many benches to enjoy the park's lush scenery. The park is beautifully landscaped, and beds of colorful flowers adorn the area that also features a tranquil, relaxing pond that attracts lots of visitors to its quietly calming shores.

(865) 215-1722

Lakeshore Greenway is a large loop that runs along the Tennessee River that offers recreation and excellent views of various picturesque vantage points that include Fort Loudon. The greenway is 2.25 miles long and is used for walking, running, biking and walking dogs. This greenway also connects to Lakeshore Park.

(865) 584-6403

With the Tennessee River running through town, fishing is always a great way to spend an afternoon. One of the most popular places to cast a line from the shore is Sequoyah Park. Aside from setting up your fishing site on the banks, there is also a boat ramp if you care to venture out a little further.

(865) 525-2585

Sharp's Ridge knows that it's visitors want to reach for the sky...literally! This is the highest elevation point in Knoxville, and that alone makes it a favorite of nature lovers and camera-toting tourists in search of unforgettable outdoor shots of the city. To say that Sharps Ridge offers excellent photo opportunities is more than an understatement, as sunsets from this vantage point are perhaps the most beautiful in America.