Best Backpacking Destinations in Knoxville, Tennessee, United States

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1. Great Smoky Mountains National Park

America's most-visited national park offers diverse trails and stunning vistas.

Diversity of Trails: From easy strolls to challenging hikes, Great Smoky Mountains has trails for all skill levels.
Wildlife Spotting: Spot black bears, elk, and a wide variety of bird species in their natural habitat.
Historic Sites: Explore numerous historic structures and exhibits that showcase the park's rich Appalachian history.

A scenic mountain drive with breathtaking views of the Smoky Mountains.

Scenic Driving Experience: Enjoy a leisurely drive through winding roads with panoramic views.
Picnic Spots: Stop at various overlooks for picnics, photography, or simply to take in the scenery.
Accessibility: Foothills Parkway is easily accessible by car, making it a convenient day trip destination.

A unique urban nature preserve with miles of trails and outdoor activities.

Urban Setting: Experience the beauty of nature in an urban setting, just minutes from downtown Knoxville.
Educational Programs: Join guided hikes, workshops, and other educational programs to learn about local ecosystems.
Outdoor Activities: Enjoy kayaking, rock climbing, and zip lining in addition to hiking.

A pristine river valley with whitewater rapids, waterfalls, and historic sites.

Whitewater Rafting: Experience exciting whitewater rafting on the Obed River's Class II-IV rapids.
Historic Sites: Visit historic sites, such as the John Muir-affiliated Fiery Gizzard Trail.
Camping Opportunities: Choose from several campgrounds for overnight stays.

A developing trail system offering scenic views, waterfalls, and historic sites.

Developing Trail System: Hike sections of the Cumberland Trail as it gradually expands to a continuous path.
Scenic Views: Enjoy panoramic views from overlooks along the trail.
Historic Sites: Learn about local history at sites like Cumberland Gap, once a gateway to the West.

A challenging backcountry hike with beautiful views of the Smoky Mountains.

Challenging Hike: Experience a demanding 12-mile round trip hike to reach Mystic Mountain.
Scenic Views: Take in breathtaking views of the Smoky Mountains from Mystic Mountain's summit.
Solitude: Enjoy a peaceful, secluded hike away from the crowds at more popular trails.

A rugged backcountry trail with stunning views and challenging climbs.

Rugged Terrain: Prepare for a tough, 18-mile round trip hike on this remote trail.
Scenic Views: Marvel at the panoramic views from Chilhowee Mountain's summit.
Solitude: Experience a sense of isolation and adventure on this secluded trail.

A diverse park offering rock climbing, hiking, camping, and waterfalls.

Rock Climbing: Climb some of the best sport and traditional routes in the Southeast.
Hiking: Choose from numerous trails, ranging from easy to strenuous.
Waterfalls: Visit beautiful waterfalls like Foster Falls and Greeter Falls.

The highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains with panoramic views.

Highest Point: Stand atop the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains.
Panoramic Views: Take in breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Observation Tower: Climb a tower for even more stunning vistas.

A picturesque waterfall with a relatively easy hike.

Picturesque Waterfall: Capture the beauty of Abrams Falls, one of the most popular waterfalls in the Smokies.
Easy Hike: Enjoy a relatively easy hike to reach the falls.
Swimming Opportunities: Cool off in the pool below Abrams Falls after your hike.

A scenic drive with numerous hiking trails and historic cabins.

Scenic Drive: Drive through a beautiful mountain valley lined with wildflowers.
Hiking Trails: Stop along the way to explore numerous hiking trails.
Historic Cabins: Visit historic cabins, such as Eleanor and Mike Ogle's Place, that showcase life in the Smokies.

A popular waterfall with an easy hike to its base.

Popular Waterfall: Visit one of the most-visited waterfalls in the Great Smoky Mountains.
Easy Hike: Enjoy a relatively easy hike to reach Laurel Falls.
Swimming Opportunities: Cool off in the pool below Laurel Falls after your hike.

A scenic drive with historic buildings and abundant wildlife.

Scenic Drive: Drive through a beautiful mountain valley lined with wildflowers.
Historic Buildings: Stop along the way to explore historic buildings, such as cabins and churches.
Abundant Wildlife: Keep an eye out for white-tailed deer, black bears, and wild turkeys.

A challenging sunrise hike to the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains.

Challenging Sunrise Hike: Hike to Clingmans Dome for a breathtaking sunrise over the Smokies.
Highest Point: Stand atop the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains.
Panoramic Views: Take in breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

A challenging backcountry trail with stunning waterfalls and diverse wildlife.

Challenging Backcountry Trail: Experience a demanding, 12-mile round trip hike on this remote trail.
Stunning Waterfalls: Enjoy the beauty of waterfalls like Ozone Falls and Siler's Bald Falls.
Diverse Wildlife: Keep an eye out for bears, birds, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.