Eco-Tourism & Sustainable Travel Destinations in Knoxville, Tennessee, United States
1. Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Experience diverse wildlife and breathtaking landscapes in the most visited national park in the U.S., focusing on conservation efforts and minimal impact tourism.
- Wildlife Observation: Opportunities to observe black bears, elk, and numerous bird species.
- Hiking Trails: Over 800 miles of maintained trails for various skill levels.
- Educational Programs: Ranger-led programs, exhibits and audio tours to learn about the park's rich history and ecology.
2. Ijams Nature Center
Discover over 275 acres of unique habitats, including gardens, caves, and waterfalls while learning about conservation initiatives.
- Educational Programs: Offers nature classes, guided hikes, and camps for all ages.
- Animal Rehabilitation Center: Aims to rehabilitate injured wildlife with the goal of returning them to their natural habitats.
- Community Engagement: Provides volunteer opportunities for local residents and visitors alike.
3. Knoxville Urban Wilderness
Explore over 1,000 acres of forested land and parks within city limits, learning about urban conservation efforts.
- Hiking Trails: Offers a variety of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.
- Urban Conservation: Incorporates preserving green spaces in an urban setting, promoting sustainable living.
- Community Engagement: Provides opportunities for volunteering and supporting conservation efforts within the city.
4. Star Lake
Enjoy a pristine lake surrounded by forests and wildlife while practicing sustainable recreation.
- Recreational Opportunities: Offers kayaking, canoeing, fishing, and picnicking.
- Wildlife Observation: Opportunities to observe birds, deer, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.
- Sustainable Practices: Encourages Leave No Trace principles and promotes conservation efforts.
5. Fort Dickerson Park
Learn about Civil War history while enjoying green spaces, hiking trails, and sustainable practices.
- Historical Education: Offers guided tours of a well-preserved Civil War fort.
- Hiking Trails: Provides trails for hiking and biking, with beautiful views of the city skyline.
- Community Engagement: Hosts events that promote learning and appreciation of local history.
6. Concord Wine Trail
Taste locally produced wines while supporting sustainable vineyards that prioritize conservation.
- Wine Tasting: Visit multiple vineyards for tastings and tours.
- Local Products: Enjoy locally produced wines, cheeses, and other products.
- Sustainable Agriculture: Vineyards employ sustainable farming practices and eco-friendly winemaking techniques.
7. River Sports Jamboree
Experience a variety of river sports while learning about conservation efforts and promoting sustainable practices.
- Outdoor Activities: Offers rafting, kayaking, canoeing, and zip lining.
- Educational Programs: Provides information on river conservation and eco-friendly practices.
- Community Engagement: Supports local businesses and promotes sustainable tourism in the region.
8. Market Square Farmers Market
Support local farmers and artisans by purchasing fresh, sustainably grown produce and handmade goods.
- Local Products: Offers fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, cheeses, and artisan crafts.
- Community Engagement: Promotes local economic development and supports small businesses.
- Sustainable Agriculture: Supports environmentally friendly farming practices and reduces carbon footprint.
9. Ijams Quarry Garden
Explore a unique ecosystem that was once an industrial quarry, now transformed into a lush garden.
- Nature Observation: Offers opportunities to observe diverse plant and animal species.
- Educational Programs: Provides guided tours and educational programs about the garden's history and ecology.
- Urban Conservation: Demonstrates how industrial sites can be transformed into green spaces for public enjoyment.
10. Knoxville Botanical Garden and Arboretum
Discover over 47 acres of gardens and plant collections that promote conservation and education.
- Plant Collections: Features a variety of gardens, including a rose garden, herb garden, and native plant collection.
- Educational Programs: Provides classes, workshops, and guided tours to promote horticulture education.
- Sustainable Practices: Employs eco-friendly gardening techniques and promotes conservation efforts.
11. Mead's Quarry Lake
Relax at a peaceful lake surrounded by nature while practicing sustainable recreation.
- Recreational Opportunities: Offers fishing, kayaking, canoeing, and picnicking.
- Wildlife Observation: Opportunities to observe birds, turtles, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.
- Sustainable Practices: Encourages Leave No Trace principles and promotes conservation efforts.
12. Tennessee River Park
Enjoy outdoor activities along the Tennessee River while learning about conservation efforts.
- Outdoor Activities: Offers kayaking, fishing, picnicking, and hiking.
- Educational Programs: Provides information on river conservation and eco-friendly practices.
- Community Engagement: Supports local businesses and promotes sustainable tourism in the region.
13. Bush's Beans Visitor Center
Learn about the history of Bush's Beans while supporting sustainable agricultural practices.
- Historical Education: Offers exhibits and interactive displays about the company's history.
- Sustainable Agriculture: Demonstrates eco-friendly farming practices, including crop rotation, soil conservation, and water management.
- Product Sampling: Provides opportunities to sample Bush's Beans products.
14. Obed Wild and Scenic River
Experience a pristine river surrounded by ancient Appalachian landscapes while learning about conservation efforts.
- Outdoor Activities: Offers kayaking, canoeing, hiking, and horseback riding.
- Educational Programs: Provides information on river conservation and eco-friendly practices.
- Historical Education: Includes opportunities to learn about the region's history, including Civil War sites.
15. Knoxville Urban Bike Share
Explore the city sustainably by renting a bike and learning about local attractions while reducing carbon footprint.
- Transportation: Rent bikes at various locations throughout the city.
- Sustainable Transportation: Promotes eco-friendly transportation and reduces carbon emissions.
- Community Engagement: Supports local businesses and promotes sustainable tourism in the region.