The best road cycling routes in Knox County

Knox County offers over 80 road cycling routes, providing a diverse range of distances and difficulties to suit various preferences.

You can expect varied terrain, including flat sections along riverfront paths and urban greenways, as well as gradual ascents into areas like the Knoxville Urban Wilderness. The region features rolling hills, with some routes offering more significant climbs for a challenge.

Yes, Knox County has 27 easy road cycling routes. A great option for beginners is the Volunteer Landing – Flint Hill loop from West High School, which is an easy 21.8-mile trail featuring riverfront views and suburban roads.

For those seeking a challenge, Knox County offers 4 difficult road cycling routes. The Covered Bridge Over the River – View of Bates Mountain loop from Colonial Village is a demanding 74.6-mile trail with significant climbs, often taking over 6 hours to complete.

Many of the easy and moderate routes are suitable for families. The Ijams Nature Center – Knoxville Urban Wilderness loop from Knoxville is an easy 18.7-mile route that passes by the nature center, offering a pleasant ride for various skill levels.

The road cycling routes in Knox County are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Cyclists often praise the diverse scenery, from riverfront paths to rolling hills, and the well-maintained routes that cater to different experience levels.

Absolutely. Many routes offer scenic views, particularly those along the river. The Volunteer Landing – Henley Bridge loop from Three Rivers Rambler provides extensive river views and passes through urban areas. You can also find routes near attractions like Volunteer Landing and the Sunsphere Observation Tower.

Yes, many of the road cycling routes in Knox County are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Volunteer Landing – Flint Hill loop and the Covered Bridge Over the River – View of Bates Mountain loop.

Along the routes, you can explore various points of interest. Consider visiting the River Trail Boardwalk, the Baker Creek Preserve, or the unique Grassy Mound on Third Creek Greenway. The Volunteer Landing area also offers scenic views and amenities.

Spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant conditions for road cycling in Knox County, with mild temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer can be warm and humid, while winter rides are possible but may require appropriate gear for cooler temperatures.

Many routes in Knox County pass through or near urban areas like Knoxville, where you can find cafes and restaurants. Routes that traverse downtown or along popular greenways often have convenient access to refreshment stops.

While popular routes can see more traffic, exploring some of the longer or more challenging routes, especially during off-peak hours or weekdays, can offer a more secluded experience. Routes venturing into more rural parts of the county tend to be less crowded than urban greenways.