Adventure Travel Destinations in Knoxville, Tennessee, United States

All Topics about Knoxville All Cities in United States

1. Great Smoky Mountains National Park

A breathtaking expanse of ancient forests and diverse wildlife. Hike along the Appalachian Trail or explore historic settlements.

Hiking Trails: Over 800 miles of maintained trails for hikers of all levels.
Wildlife Viewing: Opportunities to observe bears, wolves, and over 100 species of birds.
Historic Settlements: Visit historic buildings like the Cades Cove and Cataloochee Valleys.

A unique blend of outdoor adventure, education, and conservation. Explore 850 acres of forests, streams, and cliffs.

Climbing and Rappelling: Guided rock climbing and rappelling experiences for beginners and experts.
Educational Programs: Offers educational programs about the local flora and fauna.
Nature Trails: Varied trails for walking, hiking, and trail running, including a loop through the woods and along the river.

Experience white-water rafting on the Tennessee River or embark on a zip line adventure at Raccoon Mountain.

White-Water Rafting: Class III and IV rapids offer thrilling experiences for experienced rafters.
Zip Lining: Soar over the Tennessee River Gorge on zip lines up to 1,300 feet long.
Scenic Beauty: Stunning views of the Tennessee River Gorge and surrounding cliffs.

Discover the rich history of Knoxville at this Civil War-era fortress. Explore hiking trails and climb to the top for panoramic views.

Historic Fort: Explore historic barracks, gun emplacements, and a hospital complex.
Hiking Trails: Numerous trails of varying difficulty levels for hikers to enjoy.
Panoramic Views: Take in breathtaking views of Knoxville and the Tennessee River from the top of the fort.

A network of parks and forests offering hiking, biking, and horseback riding opportunities just minutes from downtown.

Multi-use Trails: Trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, catering to all outdoor enthusiasts.
Wildlife Observation: Opportunities to observe local wildlife in their natural habitat.
Convenient Location: Easily accessible from downtown Knoxville, making it a popular destination for city dwellers.

Hike through lush forest to reach this hidden waterfall, perfect for swimming and picnicking.

Swimming: A large pool at the base of the waterfall for swimming and relaxation.
Hiking Trails: A challenging hike through dense forest leading to the falls.
Picnic Spots: Spacious areas for enjoying a meal after the hike.

Enjoy boating, fishing, and camping at this scenic state park with a beautiful lake and historic dam.

Boating and Fishing: A large lake for fishing, boating, and paddleboarding.
Camping: Spacious campsites with amenities like restrooms, showers, and electric hookups.
Historic Dam: Visit the historic Norris Dam, one of the first in the Tennessee Valley Authority system.

A remote wilderness area offering hiking, horseback riding, and fishing opportunities.

Hiking Trails: Trails leading to scenic overlooks, waterfalls, and historic sites.
Horseback Riding: Ample trails for horseback riding in the backcountry.
Fishing: Stocked trout streams and fishing opportunities in the Little Tennessee River.

Explore the challenging and technical trails on Chilhowee Mountain, suitable for intermediate to advanced mountain bikers.

Technical Trails: Trails with steep climbs, rocky sections, and tight turns for experienced riders.
Scenic Views: Panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Wildlife Sightings: Opportunities to observe black bears, deer, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.

Explore rugged cliffs, waterfalls, and deep gorges on this remote and challenging hiking trail.

Challenging Hike: A steep and rugged trail suitable for experienced hikers.
Waterfalls: Multiple waterfalls along the trail, including Pigeon Falls.
Scenic Beauty: Stunning vistas of the rugged and untouched natural landscape.

Hike through Cumberland Gap, a natural passage between the Appalachian and Cumberland Mountains.

Appalachian Trail: Follow part of the famous Appalachian Trail through the park.
Historical Sites: Visit historic sites like Wilderness Road and Civil War battlefields.
Wildlife Observation: Opportunities to observe black bears, deer, and over 200 bird species in their natural habitat.

Learn about the Great Smoky Mountains at this informative visitor center. Access trails, exhibits, and ranger-led programs.

Trail Access: Easy access to numerous hiking trails from the visitor center.
Exhibits and Programs: Exhibits about the park's history, wildlife, and ecology. Ranger-led programs provide additional insight.
Visitor Information: Assistance with trail maps, park regulations, and safety information.

Reach the highest point in Tennessee at Clingmans Dome. Take in panoramic views of the Great Smoky Mountains.

Panoramic Views: 360-degree views of the Great Smoky Mountains.
Hiking Trails: Access to easy hiking trails leading to the observation tower.
Sunrise and Sunset Viewing: Ideal spot for watching sunrise or sunset over the mountains.

Hike to Fern Branch Falls, a picturesque waterfall surrounded by lush ferns and wildflowers.

Waterfall Hike: A scenic hike to the beautiful waterfall.
Wildflowers: Opportunities to observe wildflowers and other native plants along the trail.
Swimming: A small pool at the base of the waterfall for swimming and relaxation.

Hike to Abrams Falls, a picturesque waterfall with a wide pool ideal for swimming.

Waterfall Hike: A moderately challenging hike to the beautiful waterfall.
Swimming: A large pool at the base of the waterfall for swimming and relaxation.
Wildlife Observation: Opportunities to observe black bears, deer, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.