Top Outdoor Activities in Knoxville, TN

If you're the kind of person who thrives in the fresh air and seeks adventure beyond four walls, Knoxville, Tennessee is your kind of place. This East Tennessee gem is nestled in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains and surrounded by rivers, forests, and rolling hills. With a mild climate and a culture that celebrates outdoor living, Knoxville offers countless ways to get outside, stay active, and enjoy the beauty of the region.

Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie, a casual hiker, a water sports enthusiast, or someone who just loves to stroll through scenic landscapes, Knoxville has something for you. From paddleboarding on the Tennessee River to cycling through the Urban Wilderness, here are the top outdoor activities that locals and newcomers alike enjoy year-round.

The Urban Wilderness is a 1,000-acre outdoor paradise located just minutes from downtown Knoxville. This massive natural area features over 50 miles of multi-use trails for hiking, trail running, and mountain biking. It weaves together parks, forests, quarries, and even a historic Civil War site.

One of the most popular hiking spots within the Urban Wilderness is the Will Skelton Greenway, which meanders along the Tennessee River and through peaceful wooded areas. Another favorite is the Tharp Trace Trail at Fort Dickerson Park, which leads to a beautiful overlook of a turquoise quarry lake. With trails suited to all fitness levels, the Urban Wilderness is a perfect outdoor escape for residents and visitors.

Water plays a big role in Knoxville’s outdoor culture. The Tennessee River, which cuts right through the heart of the city, is a popular spot for kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding. Launch from Volunteer Landing or Suttree Landing Park and take in the skyline views as you glide downriver.

For lake lovers, Fort Loudoun Lake and Melton Hill Lake are nearby options for boating, fishing, and jet skiing. Many locals keep kayaks or paddleboards handy so they can hit the water after work or on weekends. Several rental and guided tour companies make it easy for beginners to join the fun.

Knoxville has earned national recognition for its mountain biking scene. The trails within the Urban Wilderness cater to all skill levels, with options ranging from smooth beginner routes to challenging downhill runs.

Baker Creek Preserve, in particular, is a mountain biking hotspot. It features professional-grade flow trails like Devil’s Racetrack and Barn Burner, which draw riders from across the Southeast. For newer riders, the pump track and beginner-friendly trails offer a safe and exciting way to develop skills. Knoxville’s cycling community is strong and supportive, with regular group rides and events hosted by local biking organizations.

If you prefer a slower pace outdoors, fishing is a rewarding and relaxing way to spend time in Knoxville’s natural spaces. The Tennessee River is home to bass, catfish, crappie, and more. Anglers also flock to Holston River and French Broad River for trout fishing, especially near their confluence in East Knoxville.

Local parks like Victor Ashe and Tommy Schumpert Park have stocked ponds perfect for beginners or families with kids. You’ll also find public docks and boat ramps throughout the city, making it easy to cast a line no matter your experience level.

Knoxville is a runner-friendly city with scenic routes, accessible greenways, and an enthusiastic community of athletes. The city’s greenway system offers more than 100 miles of paved pathways that wind through neighborhoods, parks, and along the river.

Popular routes include the Neyland Greenway, which connects downtown with the University of Tennessee campus and the riverfront, and the Third Creek Greenway, a wooded path that provides a peaceful escape within city limits. Knoxville also hosts numerous running events throughout the year, from 5Ks to marathons, including the popular Covenant Health Knoxville Marathon.

Knoxville may not be the first city you think of for rock climbing, but it offers excellent options for climbers of all levels. Ijams Crag, located within the Urban Wilderness, is a popular outdoor climbing area with routes for both beginners and advanced climbers. The limestone wall features bolted sport routes and is maintained by local climbing groups.

For those who prefer indoor training or rainy-day climbing, The Climbing Center and Onsight Rock Gym provide expansive indoor facilities with bouldering walls, top-rope routes, and lead climbing areas.

Knoxville’s rich biodiversity and protected natural areas make it a haven for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts. Seven Islands State Birding Park is one of the best destinations, just east of the city. This park features open meadows, riverfront trails, and forested areas that attract over 200 bird species throughout the year.

Ijams Nature Center is also popular for spotting birds, turtles, frogs, deer, and even the occasional fox. Whether you’re an avid birder with a life list or just enjoy the peaceful observation of wildlife, Knoxville offers quiet places to connect with nature.

Knoxville’s proximity to both the Great Smoky Mountains and multiple state parks makes it an ideal base for camping adventures. Within city limits, you can enjoy picnicking at places like Lakeshore Park or Concord Park, where picnic shelters, open fields, and scenic views offer a perfect setting for a laid-back afternoon.

For more immersive overnight experiences, head to Big Ridge State Park, Norris Dam State Park, or the Smokies for tent and RV camping. These sites offer everything from waterfront camping to wooded retreats, with access to trails, swimming areas, and boating.

Outdoor activity in Knoxville isn't limited to solo adventures. The city hosts a wide variety of outdoor fitness events and group activities that bring the community together. From outdoor yoga in the park to boot camps, Zumba classes, and group bike rides, there’s always something happening.

Annual events like the Outdoor KnoxFest and Dogwood Arts Festival combine fitness with fun and provide excellent opportunities to meet others who love spending time outside. Many local gyms and wellness studios host pop-up classes in city parks during the spring and summer months.

If Knoxville’s outdoor lifestyle speaks to you, imagine living in a home that puts it all at your doorstep. Whether you want to live near the river, next to your favorite trailhead, or just minutes from your weekend adventures, Bessie Whiteside can help you find the perfect home to match your active lifestyle.

As a Knoxville real estate expert, Bessie understands the neighborhoods, schools, amenities, and outdoor opportunities that make Knoxville such a great place to live. She provides tailored support, local insight, and a deep commitment to helping her clients make confident, informed decisions.

Start your Knoxville home search with someone who knows the terrain. Let Bessie help you find a home where every day can feel like an outdoor adventure.