Tennessee offers a wide variety of opportunities for both trekking and biking. From long treks to tranquil pathways, cyclists and hikers of all abilities and interests have the chance to head outdoors and explore. Here are our three favorite trails near Lenoir City.
1. East Lakeshore Trail
This inviting trail system surrounding the Tellico Lake reservoir is one of the most scenic and accessible trails near Lenoir City. The 31-mile system provides walkers and cyclists with an outstanding recreational experience that is available year-round.
It was also deemed a National Recreation Trail by the U.S. Department of the Interior, and it consists of ten public segments, eight trailheads, and a modest amount of vehicle parking. There are even two landings for boaters who want to enjoy the northern portions of the trail.
The Canal is a quick 1.5-mile jaunt that’s ideal for new hikers and families. Kiosks line it with maps and general educational information about the area’s wildlife and flora. The Jackson Bend segment is the longest path and makes for a challenging jog at 5.1 miles.
There’s also Wildcat Ridge Spur trail (1 mile), Coyote Loop (2.4 miles), Glendale (2.8 miles), Morganton (3.1 miles), Baker Hollow (3.2 miles), Davis Ferry (3.3 miles), Lotterdale (3.8 miles), and Sinking Creek (4.5 miles). For the most demanding bike ride, go ahead and do the entire loop.
2. Bearden Village Greenway
The Bearden Village Greenway in nearby Knoxville offers a 2.7-mile paved pathway that extends west along Sutherland Avenue and ends just past Westward Avenue. It offers several connections to larger trail systems and is a safe route for kids to explore on their own.
To get there, take the Papermill Road exit number 383 off I-40. Head east, then make a right onto Hollywood Drive. Sutherland Avenue is a right turn, then go left at the first light into the Forest Hills Boulevard shopping center. Park there and walk north to the greenway.
3. Eureka Trail
The highly-rated Eureka Trail is a popular 4.6-mile gravel biking and hiking path that begins in the city of Athens, about a 45-minute drive north on I-75. Park your car by the western end of the trailhead at 1300 E. Madison Ave. Don’t forget to explore Prof Powers Park. It’s located just off the trail and features a pond, landscaped gardens with springtime blooming violets, benches for resting, swings for the kids, and other amenities.
This rail-trail follows the former train track and winds southeast through woodlands, rural landscapes, and around Mashburn to end close to the town of Englewood. Pick up the trail a short ways away and follow it another mile into downtown.
Why not have lunch at Tellico Junction Cafe at 17 Main Street? Park your bike and head in for quick bites of your favorite comfort foods such as grilled chicken breast with homestyle mashed potatoes.
No matter which season it is, you can find outdoor recreational opportunities in every part of the state. Use this nifty guide to explore the area near Lenoir City on two wheels or your feet today.
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