Gateway Park

Gateway Park

Gateway Park is a primary entry point into Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness, providing a convenient place to park, meet up, and begin exploring the extensive network of trails and greenways throughout South Knoxville.

Located at the southern end of James White Parkway, Gateway Park provides easy access to Baker Creek Bike Park, Baker Creek Preserve, and the larger Urban Wilderness trail network. From here, riders can connect into miles of trails and build everything from a short neighborhood ride to a much longer tour of the Urban Wilderness.

Gateway is also a destination of its own. The park includes abundant parking, restrooms, water refill stations, a pavilion, picnic areas, shade structures, and a large nature-inspired playscape, making it an especially good starting point for families and groups. The park is also connected by sidewalks and greenways to the surrounding South Knoxville neighborhoods and nearby schools.

For mountain bikers, think of Gateway as the front door to the Urban Wilderness rather than a standalone trail system – a great place to start, finish, or regroup before heading deeper into the trails.

Parking: There is plenty of parking right at the Urban Wilderness Gateway Park pavilion at the end of James White Parkway (1515 Tilson Street), or you can park closer to Baker Creek along Tilson Street or at the Baker Creek Pavilion (1530 Taylor Road). 

 

Recommended Routes

Photograph depicting a trail at New to riding? This is your Baker Creek loop

New to riding? This is your Baker Creek loop

New to mountain biking or riding with the family? Start here. This approachable loop begins and ends at Gateway Park and is a great introduction to riding in Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness.

The route starts on the greenway, giving everyone a chance to warm up before heading onto Sycamore Loop for a fun, approachable singletrack experience. It’s a great way for newer riders to get comfortable on natural-surface trails without committing to a long or overly technical ride.

With easy access to water, restrooms, playgrounds, and places to take a break, this is an especially good choice for families and younger riders.

Take your time, enjoy the ride, and use this loop as a first step toward exploring more of Baker Creek and the Urban Wilderness.

 

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.