Three Rivers Rambler Station

The Tyson Park – Third Creek Greenway loop offers a refreshing touring cycling experience right in Knoxville, winding through a lush, wooded riparian corridor that often makes you forget you're in the city. You'll cruise along paved paths, enjoying the shade of trees and the chance to spot local wildlife like river otters along Third Creek, with the unique John Ulmer Bridge adding a distinctive landmark to your ride.

This moderate 20.4-mile (32.9 km) loop, featuring 728 feet (222 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 2 hours to complete. The greenway is open from dawn until dusk, but remember there are no lights, so plan your timing carefully for evening rides. Tyson Park, located directly on the route, provides convenient access to restrooms and drinking fountains.

As Knoxville's first paved greenway, the Third Creek Greenway holds a special place in the city's history and serves as a vital artery in its extensive greenway network. It's an excellent choice for family friendly bike trails in Knoxville, connecting to other routes and offering a blend of natural escape and urban accessibility, perfect for a varied cycling adventure.

Pedal through a delightful mix of urban and natural landscapes on the Volunteer Landing – Third Creek Greenway loop. This touring cycling route takes you from the quiet, wooded banks of Third Creek, where a striking 230-foot mural of native freshwater mussels adds an artistic touch, to the lively riverfront promenade of Volunteer Landing. You'll experience the feeling of being removed from the city while still enjoying easy access to amenities, making it a refreshing escape for an easy ride.

Starting conveniently from the West High School area, this 11.5-mile (18.5 km) easy loop with 280 feet (85 metres) of elevation gain is a quick ride, taking about 1 hour and 4 minutes. The paved surfaces are generally smooth, though some sections might have tree root damage. The route is open from dawn to dusk, so plan your visit to ensure you finish before dark.

This loop is a crucial link in Knoxville's extensive greenway system, connecting to other popular routes like the Neyland Greenway and Sequoyah Greenway. Along the way, you'll find Tyson Park, which offers restrooms and recreational facilities, and Volunteer Landing itself is a vibrant public park with historical markers and views of the Tennessee River, including the famous "Vol Navy" during football season.