The best cycling routes in Tennessee

Embark on the Tremont Logging History Auto Tour, a moderate touring cycling route that takes you through the quieter side of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This scenic ride covers 3.1 miles (5.0 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 587 feet (179 metres), making it a pleasant journey you can complete in about 39 minutes. As you pedal, the Middle Prong of the Little River will be your constant companion, guiding you past numerous waterfalls and cascades that are particularly striking during the autumn months.

Your adventure begins at the Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont, where you can find a small visitor center and bookstore. While the initial section is paved, be prepared for a well-maintained gravel road for the majority of the route. Considering the gravel terrain is important for your bike choice and overall planning, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience.

This route offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich history of logging in the Tremont area, providing a glimpse into the past of this beautiful region. The tour concludes at the Middle Prong Trailhead, which serves as a gateway to further exploration; from here, you can choose to hike to additional natural features like Lower Lynn Camp Falls, extending your day in the park.

Embark on the Newfound Gap Road Drive, a challenging touring cycling route spanning 32.1 miles (51.7 km) through the heart of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. You will experience a significant elevation gain of 3957 feet (1206 metres) over an estimated 3 hours and 53 minutes, making this a demanding ride for experienced cyclists. As you climb, you will pass through varied forest ecosystems, from hardwood trees at lower elevations to evergreen spruce-fir forests higher up, offering expansive views of peaks like Mount LeConte from overlooks such as Carlos C. Campbell.

When planning your visit, be aware that the Newfound Gap Road can experience heavy automobile traffic, especially during peak seasons, and there is often no wide shoulder for cyclists. To enjoy a potentially less crowded experience, consider riding in the early mornings, evenings, or during off-peak seasons like weekdays in November. This timing can help you better appreciate the continuous ascent and the exhilarating descent without as much vehicle interference.

This route offers a unique opportunity to cycle through a temperate rainforest environment within the national park, showcasing its diverse natural beauty. The continuous climb from Gatlinburg to Newfound Gap provides a thorough exploration of the park's changing landscapes and ecosystems. It is a notable regional challenge for those seeking a substantial cycling adventure with rewarding mountain vistas.

Embark on a moderate touring cycling adventure along the Music City Bikeway, a route that spans 29.7 miles (47.9 km) and includes 845 feet (258 metres) of elevation gain. You can expect to complete this journey in about 2 hours and 53 minutes. As you pedal, you will transition between natural settings, like dense woodlands where the Cumberland River peeks through, and urban environments, offering a diverse and engaging ride. Keep an eye out for the Shelby Bottoms Observation Deck, which provides excellent views along the way, and enjoy the scenic stretches that follow the river.

When planning your visit, be aware that signage for the Music City Bikeway can be inconsistent in certain areas, so it is highly recommended to have a map or GPS device for reliable navigation. Some sections of the route, particularly along Charlotte Avenue, incorporate city roads. These parts may experience higher traffic volumes, which could present a challenge for some cyclists. Consider starting your ride earlier in the day to potentially avoid peak traffic times on these urban segments.

The Music City Bikeway is notable for its role in connecting several of Nashville's greenways, creating a cohesive network for cyclists. This integration allows you to experience various parts of the city and its surrounding natural beauty in one continuous ride. The route showcases a blend of landscapes, from grasslands and wetlands to urban trails, highlighting the diverse character of Nashville's outdoor spaces. It offers a unique perspective on the city, moving between its vibrant core and tranquil natural areas.

Embark on an easy touring bicycle ride connecting downtown Knoxville with the West Hills and Cedar Bluff areas. This route spans 13.1 miles (21.1 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 461 feet (140 metres), making it perfect for a relaxed outing. You can expect to complete it in about 1 hour and 15 minutes. As you cycle, you will experience varied scenery, including the beautiful, wooded environment of the Third Creek Greenway, which often follows natural water courses.

This greenway system is largely paved and considered easy, welcoming families and casual riders. While the network is extensive, be aware that some sections may require you to ride on sidewalks or streets; always exercise caution with motorists. Numerous parks are directly accessible from the greenways, offering convenient entry points if you plan to start or stop at different locations.

This route offers a fantastic way to explore Knoxville's extensive greenway system. You will pass through open spaces and parklands, with opportunities to spot local wildlife along the way. The Sequoyah Greenway section provides scenic views of rolling hills and historic homes, adding to the charm of your touring bicycle adventure.

Embark on an easy touring bicycle ride along the South Chickamauga Creek Greenway, a route that stretches for 9.4 miles (15.2 km). You will experience varied and engaging scenery as the trail meanders alongside the wooded Chickamauga Creek, offering peaceful views of the waterway. The journey involves a gentle elevation gain of 319 feet (97 metres) and typically takes about 1 hour and 4 minutes to complete, making it a relaxing outing for cyclists of all levels. As you pedal, keep an eye out for the impressive rock silo of Sterchi Farm, a notable landmark along the way.

Before you head out, be aware that approximately 1.5 miles of the greenway, specifically the section between the Camp Jordan Access point and the Brainerd Road trailhead, is closed for infrastructure work until the summer of 2027. This closure means you cannot currently complete a direct route from Camp Jordan to the Tennessee River. The trail features diverse surfaces, including smooth asphalt, concrete, and boardwalks, but some sections do have gravel and rough pavement, which can become slippery when wet. Plan your visit accordingly to enjoy the open sections of the route.

The South Chickamauga Creek Greenway offers a unique blend of natural and historical elements. You will cycle through a mix of landscapes, from towering oak-hickory forests and marshy areas to rolling farmland, providing a dynamic backdrop for your ride. This trail stands out for its accessibility and the opportunity to connect with both nature and local history, making it a popular choice for a leisurely touring bicycle adventure in the region.

Embark on an easy touring bicycle ride through Nashville, combining urban views with natural riverfront scenery. This 13.6-mile (21.9 km) loop takes you along the Cumberland River Greenway, offering picturesque glimpses of the city skyline and the river itself. You will experience a gentle elevation gain of 289 feet (88 metres), making it a comfortable journey that typically takes around 1 hour and 17 minutes to complete. The route guides you past the iconic John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge before reaching Centennial Park, home to the impressive Parthenon replica.

When planning your visit, remember that this route is mostly flat and paved, making it accessible for many cyclists. While much of the greenway is well-maintained, be aware that some older sections might have limited access to water and restrooms. It is also worth noting that some past reports have mentioned the possibility of sand on the path in certain industrial areas, so exercise a bit of caution there. Consider starting your ride in the morning or late afternoon to enjoy cooler temperatures and potentially fewer crowds.

The Downtown Nashville and Centennial Park loop offers a unique blend of city exploration and peaceful green space. It stands out as a great way to see Nashville's urban core and its natural surroundings without venturing far from the city center. This route provides a refreshing escape, allowing you to enjoy lush greenery and prominent landmarks, all while staying within the vibrant atmosphere of Nashville. It's an excellent option if you are looking for a relaxed ride with diverse scenery.

Embark on the South Knoxville loop, a moderate touring cycling route that spans 17.5 miles (28.2 km) and features a total elevation gain of 901 feet (275 metres). You can expect to complete this journey in about 1 hour and 44 minutes, enjoying a diverse landscape as you pedal. The route guides you through dense forests, past significant historic sites, and along the scenic Tennessee River, offering a refreshing outdoor experience. Keep an eye out for the impressive 200-foot bluff that overlooks the University of Tennessee, a notable visual landmark along your ride.

Before you set out, be aware that some sections of the trail, particularly within the Forks of the River Wildlife Management Area, might have restricted access during hunting season. The trail is well-marked, and you will find maps and difficulty ratings at the trailheads to help you navigate. Always make sure to stay on the designated paths, as certain parts of the route traverse private property via easements. Planning your visit during off-peak hours can enhance your experience, allowing for a more tranquil ride.

This loop offers a fantastic opportunity to explore Knoxville's unique Urban Wilderness, showcasing a blend of natural beauty and local history. As you cycle, you'll pass by the iconic Gay Street Bridge and the Ijams Nature Playscape at Grayson Subaru Preserve, adding points of interest to your tour. The trail is known for its varied terrain and the chance to spot wildflowers, making it a distinctive and engaging option for touring cyclists in the region.

Enjoy continuous waterfront views as you tour along the Tennessee Riverwalk, an easy touring cycling route. This 8.7-mile (14.1 km) path offers a pleasant ride, gaining 336 feet (103 metres) in elevation over approximately 53 minutes. You will cycle through varied scenery, from peaceful wooded sections and marshlands to more urban settings. Keep an eye out for the Bluff View Sculpture Garden and the iconic Walnut Street pedestrian bridge, which connects to Coolidge Park, adding to the charm of your ride.

The Tennessee Riverwalk is well-maintained and offers many conveniences for your trip. You will find restrooms, picnic tables, and benches available along the route. For easy access, you can find free parking at several points along Amnicola Highway. The trail is designed to be accessible, making it a great option for family-friendly cycling.

This route provides a true taste of Chattanooga's outdoor charm, blending natural beauty with urban attractions. The path's connection to the Walnut Street pedestrian bridge and Coolidge Park makes it a central part of the city's recreational offerings. It's a notable feature for anyone looking to experience the local environment and community spirit on two wheels.

Embark on the Knoxville Urban Wilderness South Loop, a moderate touring cycling route that offers a diverse ride through varied terrain. You will navigate 11.6 miles (18.7 km) of dirt singletrack, gravel, and pavement, gaining 593 feet (181 metres) in elevation. The journey, estimated to take 1 hour and 38 minutes, winds through mature hardwood forests, past dramatic 30-foot tall rock outcroppings, and around a brilliantly blue quarry lake, providing a dynamic cycling experience.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the route is well-marked with distinctive purple leaf signs. Trailheads are equipped with informational kiosks and maps to help you orient yourself before you start. Parking is generally available at various access points, making it convenient to begin your adventure. There are no specific permits or fees mentioned for accessing the trail itself, allowing for easy, spontaneous rides.

This route stands out for its unique blend of natural beauty and urban accessibility, offering a chance to see the stunning View of the Tennessee River from the William Skelton Greenway. It showcases the rich tapestry of landscapes within the Knoxville Urban Wilderness, making it a notable destination for touring cyclists looking for an engaging ride close to the city. The mix of surfaces also provides a good challenge for those wanting to test their bike handling skills.