The best traffic-free bike rides in Knox County
4.6
(37)
614
riders
17
rides
No traffic touring cycling routes in Knox County, Tennessee, traverse a landscape characterized by rolling hills, extensive greenways, and scenic riverfronts. The region features diverse terrain, including forested areas, historic quarry sites, and paths alongside the Tennessee River. Cyclists can experience routes that offer views of the Great Smoky Mountains in the distance and explore the interconnected network of the Knoxville Urban Wilderness.
Best no traffic touring cycling routes in Knox County
- The most popular no traffic touring cycling route is South Knoxville loop, a 17.5 miles (28.2 km) trail that takes 1 hour 45 minutes to complete, offering varied terrain and river views.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Knoxville Urban Wilderness South Loop, a moderate 11.6 miles (18.7 km) path. This route features diverse terrain, forests, quarry views, and river vistas within the urban wilderness network.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Mead's Quarry Lake loop from Dickinson Island, a 6.2 miles (9.9 km) trail leading through unique geological features and scenic views, often completed in about 36 minutes.
- Touring cycling in Knox County is defined by rolling hills, river paths, and forested greenways. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy loops to more challenging routes.
- The routes in Knox County are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from more than 20 reviews. More than 500 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Knox County's varied terrain.
Last updated: November 7, 2026
5.0
(1)
13
riders
28.2km
01:45
270m
270m
The South Knoxville loop offers a diverse touring cycling experience, weaving through dense forests and along the Tennessee River. You'll encounter a mix of dirt singletrack, gravel, and pavement, with views of wildflowers and a prominent 200-foot bluff overlooking the University of Tennessee. Keep an eye out for the historic Gay Street Bridge and the Ijams Nature Playscape at Grayson Subaru Preserve, which add character to this urban wilderness adventure.
This moderate 17.5-mile (28.2 km) route involves 901 feet (275 metres) of elevation gain and typically takes about 1 hour and 44 minutes to complete. It's best suited for cyclists with some experience who are comfortable with varied terrain, including short, steep climbs and occasional rocky sections. Spring and fall are generally the most enjoyable seasons for this ride, offering comfortable temperatures and vibrant scenery.
Part of Knoxville's extensive Urban Wilderness, this loop acts as a key connector, linking various trail systems across 1,000 acres of preserved land. It's a testament to the city's commitment to outdoor recreation, providing a readily accessible escape just a few miles from downtown. The trail is well-maintained by local groups and offers a chance to spot local wildlife, making it a rewarding option for those seeking a blend of nature and history.
5
riders
18.7km
01:39
180m
180m
The Knoxville Urban Wilderness South Loop offers a dynamic touring cycling experience, weaving through mature hardwood forests, past dramatic 30-foot tall rock outcroppings, and alongside a brilliantly blue quarry lake. You will encounter a mixed bag of terrain, predominantly dirt singletrack, interspersed with gravel and paved sections, including a scenic stretch along the Tennessee River. This route provides a true urban wilderness feel, showcasing wildflowers, bamboo thickets, and even rolling farmland, all within easy reach of the city.
This moderate 11.6-mile (18.7 km) loop, with 593 feet (181 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 1 hour and 38 minutes to complete. It is crucial to note that while rated moderate, the trail's significant dirt singletrack and technical sections make it best suited for touring cyclists with robust gravel or hybrid bikes. Traditional road touring bikes with narrower tires may find the conditions challenging. The trail is well-signed, and fall offers particularly vibrant foliage.
What makes the Knoxville Urban Wilderness South Loop truly stand out is its unique position as a comprehensive connector within a 1,000-acre urban wilderness, just two miles from downtown Knoxville. It links multiple parks and natural areas, allowing you to experience diverse natural environments before easily accessing city amenities. This blend of accessibility and varied landscapes has garnered national attention, making it a significant recreational asset for the region.
5
riders
57.0km
03:32
510m
510m
The Urban Wilderness loop offers a unique touring cycling experience, weaving through Knoxville's diverse landscape. You'll navigate varied terrain, from the paved Will Skelton Greenway within Ijams Nature Center to natural surface trails that traverse wooded areas, old limestone quarries, and offer glimpses of the Tennessee and French Broad Rivers. This 35.4-mile (57.0 km) route, with its 1681 feet (512 metres) of elevation gain, is rated difficult and promises a rugged adventure for those seeking more than just a smooth ride.
Planning your ride on this challenging Urban Wilderness Knoxville cycling trail requires attention to the weather; dry conditions are crucial for tackling the natural surface sections. While the estimated duration is 3 hours and 31 minutes, allow extra time for the technical elements. Parking is available at various points, including Ijams Nature Center, but always check for specific access details and arrive early, especially on weekends.
What makes this route truly stand out is its accessibility to nature right within minutes of downtown Knoxville, connecting multiple parks and natural areas. It's a testament to community effort, transforming the area into a comprehensive outdoor recreation destination. While primarily known for mountain biking, this touring cycling route offers a chance to explore the diverse natural features, from bluffs to quarry lakes, that define the Urban Wilderness.
4.0
(1)
10
riders
42.2km
02:35
330m
330m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
8
riders
Easy bike ride. Mostly paved surfaces.
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Tips from the Community
Excellent way to get access the Knoxville without messing with traffic.
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The quarry is a fan-favorite spot in the warmer months. Kayaking, canoeing, and swimming is allowed in the water and there is tons of wildlife to view from flowers to fish to freshwater jellyfish.
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Lost Chromosome Trailhead is at the parking area for Knoxville Head Start. Here bikers can find a map of the Knoxville Urban Wilderness area and a nice water refill station.
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Often occupied by geese in the warmer months, this large fountain serves as the roughly halfway spot on the Cherokee Boulevard trail. This is also at the bottom of where the larger hills on the trail begin/end.
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The entrance to the Sequoyah Hills neighborhood is a stone gate surrounded by some bushes and shrubs. This gate marks the northern terminal of the crushed-cinder path of Cherokee Boulevard. Across Kingston Pike, one can gain access to the Third Creek Greenway, which is a paved path that travels for several miles both east and west.
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This park of the William Skelton Greenway gifts users with views of the Tennessee River to the north and fields of sunflowers, wildflowers, and different species of trees to in the southern fields. Keep your eyes peeled high in the trees, as this is a great place for birding
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The Third Creek Greenway is a 5.3-mile paved path designated for foot and bike traffic. It connects to several other greenways and parks along the way.
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Knoxville's Urban Wilderness is an outdoor adventure area where you can hike, bike, climb, paddle, or simply spend time in the woods. It connects five city parks to historic sites, playgrounds, lakes, and a 600-acre wildlife area.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no traffic touring cycling routes are available in Knox County?
Knox County offers a wide selection of traffic-free touring cycling routes, with over 15 options available. These routes cater to various skill levels, ensuring there's a suitable ride for everyone looking to explore the region without vehicle interference.
What are the difficulty levels of the no traffic touring cycling routes in Knox County?
The routes in Knox County offer a range of difficulty levels. You'll find approximately 8 easy routes, 7 moderate routes, and 2 more challenging options, ensuring there's a suitable ride whether you're a beginner or an experienced touring cyclist.
What is the best season for no traffic bike touring in Knox County?
Both Knox County, Tennessee, and Knox County, Ohio, offer pleasant cycling experiences across multiple seasons. Spring and fall are generally ideal, with comfortable temperatures and beautiful scenery, such as the seasonal sunflower fields in the Forks of the River Wildlife Management Area in Tennessee, or wildflowers along Ohio's Heart of Ohio Trail. Summer can also be enjoyable, especially on shaded routes, while winter might be less suitable due to colder temperatures and potential trail conditions.
Are there family-friendly car-free cycling routes in Knox County?
Yes, Knox County offers several excellent family-friendly options. In Knox County, Tennessee, the extensive greenway system, such as those found in Concord Park or the James White Fort – Neyland Greenway, provides safe and child-friendly paths. In Knox County, Ohio, the paved sections of the Kokosing Gap Trail and Heart of Ohio Trail are perfect for families, offering smooth surfaces suitable for all ages and even strollers.
What can I see along the no traffic touring cycling routes in Knox County?
You'll find a diverse array of attractions. In Knox County, Tennessee, routes often pass by scenic river views, historic quarry sites like Mead's Quarry, and natural areas such as Ijams Nature Center. Highlights include the River Trail Boardwalk and Volunteer Landing. In Knox County, Ohio, you can explore charming towns, the picturesque Dry Creek with its 19 bridges, and unique spots like Ariel-Foundation Park, Kenyon College, and the historic Bridge of Dreams in Brinkhaven.
Are there any circular no traffic bike trails in Knox County?
Yes, there are several excellent circular routes designed for touring cyclists. Notable examples in Knox County, Tennessee, include the South Knoxville loop, the Urban Wilderness loop, and the Mead's Quarry Lake loop from Dickinson Island. These loops provide varied terrain and scenic views without requiring a return trip on the same path.
Where can I find parking for car-free bike routes in Knox County?
Parking is generally accessible at various trailheads and parks. In Knox County, Tennessee, major hubs like Ijams Nature Center, Concord Park, and Lakeshore Park offer parking facilities. For routes in Knox County, Ohio, trailheads along the Kokosing Gap Trail and Heart of Ohio Trail, as well as in towns like Mount Vernon and Centerburg, provide convenient parking options.
Are there cafes or places to stop for refreshments along the no traffic bike trails?
Yes, especially in Knox County, Ohio, where the trails connect quaint villages and downtown Mount Vernon, offering numerous opportunities for refreshments. In Knox County, Tennessee, routes within the Knoxville Urban Wilderness are close to city amenities, and some parks like Lakeshore Park may have facilities. Planning your route can help identify specific stops.
Can I bring my dog on the traffic-free bike paths in Knox County?
Many greenways and multi-use trails in both Knox Counties are dog-friendly, provided your pet is on a leash and you clean up after them. For example, the South Main Plaza Dog Fountain in Mount Vernon, Ohio, highlights the welcoming nature for pets. Always check specific park or trail regulations before you go, as rules can vary.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy the most about no traffic touring cycling in Knox County?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, from rolling hills and river views in Tennessee to the serene countryside and charming towns in Ohio. The extensive network of well-maintained, traffic-free paths, particularly the paved sections of the Ohio to Erie Trail in Knox County, Ohio, and the Knoxville Urban Wilderness in Tennessee, are frequently highlighted for their accessibility and scenic beauty.
Are there opportunities for birdwatching or enjoying nature on these routes?
Absolutely. In Knox County, Tennessee, the Seven Islands State Birding Park offers wide, open trails specifically designed for nature lovers and birdwatchers. The Forks of the River Wildlife Management Area also provides excellent opportunities to observe local wildlife. In Knox County, Ohio, the Heart of Ohio Trail is known for its natural flora and fauna, including wildflowers like Dutchman's Breeches and various bird species such as the Red-headed Woodpecker.
Most popular routes in Knox County
Most popular attractions in Knox County
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