Hiking & Outdoor Adventures Nearby in Knoxville, Tennessee, United States

Knoxville, United States, Knoxville, Outdoor & Adventure, Hiking & Outdoor Adventures Nearby

Hiking & Outdoor Adventures Nearby in Knoxville, Tennessee, United States

1. Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Experience diverse wildlife and breathtaking mountain vistas at this iconic national park, a unique haven for nature lovers.
  • Diverse Wildlife: Home to over 100 species of native trees, 1,500 flowering plants, and more than 300 bird species.
  • Hiking Trails: Offers over 800 miles of maintained trails, from easy walks to strenuous hikes.
  • Cultural Sites: Includes historic structures and artifacts that showcase the life of early settlers.

2. Ijams Nature Center

Explore 319 acres of woods, trails, and gardens at this urban nature preserve, offering various outdoor activities.
  • Outdoor Activities: Offers programs like hiking, birdwatching, and canoeing.
  • Educational Programs: Hosts educational workshops on topics such as wildlife conservation and environmental education.
  • Nature Playground: Features a nature-themed play area for children to learn and play.

3. Forks of the River Wildlife Preserve

Discover diverse habitats and wildlife at this 1,100-acre preserve, perfect for birdwatching and photography.
  • Wildlife Observation: Boasts a variety of birds, mammals, reptiles, and amphibians.
  • Trail System: Features 8 miles of trails for hiking, biking, or horseback riding.
  • Nature Education: Offers educational programs about local wildlife and conservation efforts.

4. Mystery Hollow

Walk through a mystical forest filled with towering trees, crystal-clear pools, and fascinating rock formations.
  • Unique Forest Features: Features unique plant species such as the rare Tennessee white pine.
  • Rock Formations: Includes natural limestone formations that create an otherworldly landscape.
  • Hiking Trails: Offers hiking trails with varying levels of difficulty, perfect for both beginners and experienced hikers.

5. Pistol Creek State Natural Area

Discover breathtaking waterfalls and lush forests at this picturesque natural area.
  • Waterfalls: Includes three stunning waterfalls.
  • Hiking Trails: Features a 4-mile hike with breathtaking views of the surrounding forest and gorges.
  • Wildlife Observation: Provides opportunities to spot black bears, deer, and various bird species.

6. Concord WMA - Ft. Patrick Henry Campground

Camp and hike in the beautiful forested landscape of this wildlife management area.
  • Camping Opportunities: Offers campsites for tents and RVs, with access to modern facilities.
  • Hiking Trails: Features a network of trails suitable for hikers of all skill levels.
  • Wildlife Observation: Provides opportunities to observe wildlife such as deer, turkey, and various bird species.

7. Edward R. Royce Memorial State Park

Relax on the shores of the Tennessee River or explore the scenic trails in this serene park.
  • Riverfront Access: Provides a beautiful view and access to the Tennessee River.
  • Hiking Trails: Features hiking trails that offer scenic views of the surrounding countryside.
  • Recreational Facilities: Includes picnic areas, a boat ramp, and a fishing pier.

8. Tuckaleechee Caverns

Explore stunning limestone formations and unique rock formations in these natural caverns.
  • Cave Formations: Features unique limestone stalactites, stalagmites, and flowstones.
  • Geological History: Provides insights into the geological history of the area.
  • Tour Guides: Includes knowledgeable tour guides to help you navigate and learn about the caverns.

9. Obed Wild & Scenic River

Raft, kayak, or hike along the picturesque Obed River, taking in the stunning scenery and wildlife.
  • River Activities: Offers opportunities for rafting, kayaking, and tubing on the river.
  • Hiking Trails: Features over 50 miles of hiking trails with varying levels of difficulty.
  • Wildlife Observation: Provides opportunities to observe wildlife such as beavers, otters, and various bird species.

10. Ivestor Gap Overlook

Take in breathtaking views of the Smoky Mountains from this scenic overlook.
  • Scenic Views: Offers panoramic views of the Great Smoky Mountains.
  • Picnic Area: Includes a picnic area for visitors to relax and enjoy the view.
  • Photography Opportunities: Ideal for capturing stunning photos of the surrounding landscape.

11. Roan Mountain State Park

Hike to scenic viewpoints and explore the unique plant life at this high-altitude park.
  • High-Altitude Hiking: Offers hiking trails that take you to scenic viewpoints at elevations of over 6,000 feet.
  • Rhododendron Trails: Features a network of trails through fields of rhododendrons, blooming from June to August.
  • Wildlife Observation: Provides opportunities to observe black bears, deer, and various bird species.

12. Cade's Cove Loop Road

Drive through this picturesque valley, stopping at historic buildings and enjoying the wildlife.
  • Historic Buildings: Includes several well-preserved historic buildings dating back to the early 19th century.
  • Wildlife Observation: Provides opportunities to observe black bears, deer, and various bird species.
  • Scenic Driving Tour: Offers a scenic driving tour through the picturesque valley.

13. Fall Creek Falls State Park

Marvel at the stunning Fall Creek Falls and explore the surrounding forest.
  • Waterfalls: Features a towering 256-foot waterfall, one of the highest east of the Mississippi River.
  • Hiking Trails: Offers hiking trails with varying levels of difficulty, including a trail to the base of the falls.
  • Scenic Viewpoints: Includes scenic viewpoints offering breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside and waterfall.

14. Chilhowee Mountain Wilderness

Hike through this remote wilderness area, taking in the stunning scenery and diverse wildlife.
  • Wilderness Hiking: Offers challenging hikes through remote wilderness areas.
  • Diverse Wildlife: Includes opportunities to observe wildlife such as black bears, turkey, and various bird species.
  • Scenic Viewpoints: Provides scenic viewpoints offering breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.

15. Clingmans Dome

Reach the highest point in Tennessee and take in breathtaking panoramic views from the observation tower.
  • Scenic Views: Offers panoramic views of the Great Smoky Mountains.
  • Observation Tower: Includes an observation tower for visitors to get a bird's-eye view of the surrounding landscape.
  • Hiking Trails: Features a paved trail to the observation tower, suitable for all skill levels.