What Makes Knoxville Unique?

  • Access to 250+ miles of mountain bike trails within 30 miles of town, from lift access to hand-cut singletrack.
  • Baker Creek Bike Park – One of the best municipal parks in the Southeast
  • Access to water – our lakes and quarries make summer riding possible
  • Trail systems in close proximity to downtown allowing multi-ride days

Welcome to Knoxville, Tennessee – where city streets meet forested trails, the Smokies line the skyline, and some of the best riding in the Southeast starts just minutes from downtown. Sitting right at the heart of the Tennessee Valley and at the headwaters of the Tennessee River, Knoxville is the ultimate home base for all things adventure. Our Scruffy City offers something pretty special: a city where you can grab a cup of coffee, pedal to the trailhead, disappear into the woods, and still make it back downtown in time for dinner.

Trails have become a big part of how people experience this city. At the heart of it all is Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness – a connected network of parks, trails, greenways, historic sites, quarries, and waterways tucked into South Knoxville. Keep exploring and you’ll find 250+ miles of mountain bike trails within a 30 mile radius of downtown, sure to keep riders (and non-riders!) of all levels entertained. When you’re not riding, you’ll find plenty to do around town with live music, arts, sports, neighborhood breweries, local restaurants, coffee shops, and a lively community that supports it all.

Since 2007, AMBC has been building trails and community through the work of volunteers, our professional Trail Crew, partners, and supporters. Today, we steward more than 90 miles of trails in and around Knoxville, including the Urban Wilderness, Baker Creek, Marie Myers Park, Sharps Ridge, I.C. King, Concord Park, and Loyston Point. Most trails are multi-use, so expect to share the dirt with hikers, runners, dog walkers, bird watchers, families, and plenty of other folks enjoying the outdoors. Slow down, say hello, and be a good trail neighbor.

This guide will help you explore Knoxville on two wheels, whether you’re looking for your first trail, flowy singletrack, or something a little rowdier. You can also find routes and updated trail details on Trailforks, perfect for planning your ride and on-the-go mapping. Before you roll out, remember: Ride dirt trails, not mud trails. Respect other trail users. And help us take care of the places we all love. If you run into any issues on the trails (fallen tree, broken bridge, etc.), send us an email at [email protected].

If you really love what you ride, come dig with us at a Work Party, donate to our trails, or become an AMBC member. These trails are driven by the community – and that’s you, too.

We dig trails. We are AMBC.

Baker Creek Bike Park

Baker Creek Preserve

  • 30+ miles of Trail
  • 1 road/gravel, 6 green, 3 blue
  • Best for: Intermediate to Advanced

Marie Myers Park – AKA: The Year Round Get Down & Drop Inn

Gateway Park

All-Weather Trails

Greenway Access

Restrooms and water refill station

Pavilion, picnic areas, and shade

Large playscape

 

Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness

Concord Park

I.C. King Park

Distance: 9.9 miles

When to ride: Dry conditions (upper elevations drain faster)

 

Loyston Point

Sharp’s Ridge Memorial Park

Works in Progress

Trail Systems Overview

From First Rides to Full Send

Knoxville offers a diverse mix of trail systems spread across city, county, state, federal and private lands — all within minutes of downtown. Trails are generally color-coded using standard difficulty ratings:

Icon indicating Green trail difficulty level

Green (Easy/Beginner)

Wide, smooth trails with gentle grades — ideal for new riders, families, and skills progression.

Common features: packed dirt, gradual climbs, minimal technical obstacles.

Icon indicating Blue trail difficulty level

Blue (Intermediate))

The heart of most of our trail systems. Expect sustained climbs, faster descents, rocks, roots, and flow sections.

Common features: technical rock, punchy climbs, optional features, longer mileage.

Icon indicating Black trail difficulty level

Black (Difficult/Advanced)

Steep, technical, and physically demanding trails designed for experienced riders.

Common features: rock gardens, exposure, tight switchbacks, steep grades, and sustained elevation change.

Icon indicating Double Black trail difficulty level

Double Black (Most Difficult/Expert)

Extremely Steep, technical, and physically demanding trails designed for the most experienced riders.

Common features: rock gardens, exposure, tight switchbacks, steep grades, and sustained elevation change.

Best Time to Ride

Climate, Weather & Seasonal Tips

One of Knoxville’s biggest draws is its nearly year-round riding season. The region’s humid subtropical climate offers four distinct seasons, each with its own riding perks.

Pro Tip: Not all of Knoxville’s trails drain well, but, we update their status EVERY SINGLE DAY!  Check it out and make a plan, always respect trail closures and wet-weather guidelines to protect trail sustainability.

Spring (March–May)

Spring brings blooming wildflowers, cooler temperatures, and hero dirt. Expect daytime highs in the 60s–70s°F. Rain is common, so check trail conditions and give trails time to dry after storms.

Summer (June–September)

Summers are hot and humid, with temperatures often in the 80s–90s°F. Early morning or evening rides are best, and shaded trail systems in higher elevations like Raccoon Mountain or Five Points Recreation Area offer relief. Hydration is key.

Fall (October–November)

Fall is prime riding season. Cooler temps, low humidity, and vibrant foliage make this the most popular time to visit. Expect crisp mornings and daytime highs in the 60s–70s°F — perfect for long rides and big climbs.

Winter (December–February)

Winters are generally mild, with occasional cold snaps or light snow. Many days remain rideable, especially during dry stretches. Expect temperatures in the 40s–50s°F, making winter a favorite season for locals.

Know Before You Ride

Trail Etiquette & Responsible Riding

Knoxville’s trails are shared spaces — built and maintained through partnerships between volunteers, land managers, and the community. Riding responsibly helps keep trails open, safe, and sustainable for everyone.

Ride Open Trails Only

Always check trail status before heading out. Wet-weather and freeze-thaw closures protect trails from damage and help prevent erosion. Respect all posted signs and temporary closures.

Yield Properly

Mountain bikers yield to hikers and equestrians. When approaching others, slow down, communicate clearly, and pass only when it’s safe and welcomed.

Stay on the Trail

Cutting switchbacks or riding off-trail causes erosion and damages sensitive habitats. Stay on designated routes and respect trail boundaries.

Leave No Trace

Pack out what you pack in. Avoid skidding, widening trails, or creating alternate lines. Respect wildlife and keep noise to a minimum.

Ride Within Your Ability

Many Knoxville area trails are rocky, technical, and steep. Choose routes that match your skill level and progress responsibly.

Be an Ambassador

A friendly wave, clear communication, and courtesy go a long way. How riders behave directly impacts trail access and future development.

Land Managers & Stewardship

Knoxville’s trail network exists thanks to collaboration between land managers, local government, nonprofits, and volunteers.

Primary Land Managers Include:

  • City of Knoxville
  • Knox County
  • Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA)
  • Ijams Nature Center
  • Private landowners who donate access for public use.

Each land manager has unique rules, priorities, and environmental considerations. Trail access depends on continued trust, responsible use, and active stewardship.

AMBC’s Role

AMBC partners with land managers to:

  • Design, build, and maintain sustainable trails
  • Coordinate volunteer trail work
  • Advocate for access and responsible land use
  • Educate riders and grow the trail community
  • Secure funding for maintenance and new projects

How You Can Support the Trails

  • Volunteer at trail work days
  • Join US! Become a Member today!
  • Donate to trail maintenance efforts
  • Respect closures and trail guidelines
  • Share feedback constructively and locally

Trails don’t maintain themselves — every ride you enjoy is the result of countless volunteer hours and community investment.

Support AMBC