Tennessee’s bike trails offer much more than just a place to pedal. From the misty peaks of the Smokies to the winding paths along city rivers, these routes combine natural beauty with interesting places to explore. Whether you’re chasing mountain views, rolling through tree-lined greenways, or searching for a good lunch spot mid-ride, the state has trails that deliver all three.
Grab your helmet and get ready to discover some of the best two-wheeled adventures Tennessee has to offer.
1. Cades Cove Loop Road — Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Rolling through Cades Cove feels like pedaling back in time. This 11-mile loop sits inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park and wraps you in mountain views, open meadows, and glimpses of historic log cabins that settlers built more than a century ago. Deer graze near the tree line, wild turkeys strut across the road, and black bears occasionally make appearances in the distance.
What makes this ride extra special? Every Wednesday from early May through late September, the loop closes to cars from sunrise until 10 a.m. That means you get the entire road to yourself, along with walkers and other cyclists.
The quiet is unreal. You can hear birds calling, leaves rustling, and your own breath as you climb gentle hills.
The terrain isn’t flat, but it’s manageable for most riders. Expect a few modest climbs and plenty of downhill coasting. Bring water, snacks, and a camera because you’ll want to stop often.
The Cable Mill area has restrooms and a visitor center where you can learn about the families who once farmed this valley.
Plan to start early if you’re riding on a car day. Traffic can get heavy by mid-morning, especially in summer and fall. Spring and autumn offer the best weather and fewer crowds.
Wildflowers bloom in April and May, while October brings fiery foliage that rivals any postcard.
There are no food stops inside the loop, so pack what you need. The closest towns with restaurants and bike shops are Townsend and Gatlinburg, both about 20 to 30 minutes away. This ride is all about soaking in nature, history, and mountain air without the usual distractions.
If you want a Tennessee ride that feels timeless, this is it.
2. Tennessee Riverwalk — Chattanooga
Chattanooga’s Tennessee Riverwalk is where city life meets mountain backdrop, all on a smooth ribbon of pavement. This 16.1-mile path hugs the Tennessee River and connects parks, bridges, neighborhoods, and downtown hotspots. You can ride the whole thing or pick a shorter section depending on your energy and appetite for exploration.
Start near the Tennessee Aquarium and you’re instantly in the heart of things. The trail winds past Coolidge Park, crosses the Walnut Street Bridge (one of the longest pedestrian bridges in the country), and rolls through Bluff View Art District, where galleries and coffee shops wait if you need a caffeine boost. Keep going and you’ll pass riverfront restaurants, green spaces, and quiet stretches where herons fish along the banks.
The ride is mostly flat and beginner-friendly, making it ideal for families or anyone who wants a relaxed pace with plenty of stopping options. You can detour into Renaissance Park, grab lunch at a riverside café, or just sit on a bench and watch paddleboarders glide by. The views shift as you go—sometimes it’s all water and trees, other times you’re looking up at Lookout Mountain looming in the distance.
Weekends can get busy, especially near downtown, so mornings or weekdays offer a calmer vibe. The trail is well-maintained and clearly marked, with bike racks and water fountains scattered along the way. Parking is easy to find near the aquarium or in lots along Riverside Drive.
If you want a longer adventure, connect to other Chattanooga greenways that branch off from the Riverwalk. For a shorter loop, ride from downtown to the Chickamauga Dam and back. Either way, you’ll get mountain views, river breezes, and a taste of what makes Chattanooga one of the most bike-friendly cities in the South.
3. Tweetsie Trail — Johnson City To Elizabethton
Named after the old narrow-gauge railroad that once chugged between these two towns, the Tweetsie Trail is a 9.5-mile ride that feels like a step back into simpler times. The crushed-stone surface is smooth and easy on tires, and the route follows the historic “Tweetsie” railroad bed, crossing old bridges and winding through wooded stretches that keep the ride shaded and cool.
This is a flat, mellow ride perfect for anyone who wants to enjoy the scenery without huffing up hills. Families, casual riders, and history buffs all love this trail. The trailheads in Johnson City and Elizabethton both have parking, restrooms, and easy access to local food spots, so you can fuel up before or after your ride.
Johnson City offers downtown restaurants, coffee shops, and bike-friendly cafés near the trailhead. Elizabethton has its own charm with small-town diners, bakeries, and ice cream shops within walking distance of the trail’s end. If you’re hungry mid-ride, you’ll need to pack snacks since there aren’t many options along the trail itself.
The Tweetsie Trail is popular with locals, so expect to see runners, walkers, and other cyclists, especially on weekends. Mornings and late afternoons tend to be quieter. The trail is open year-round, and each season brings a different look—spring wildflowers, summer greenery, fall foliage, and winter’s bare branches that let you see deeper into the woods.
One of the highlights is the sense of connection between two towns. You can start in one, ride to the other, grab lunch, and pedal back. Or park in the middle and ride out and back from there.
Either way, you’re following a piece of East Tennessee history on a trail that’s easy, scenic, and full of small-town character. No steep climbs, no traffic, just a straightforward ride through the countryside.
4. Mountain Goat Trail — Sewanee, Monteagle, And Tracy City Area
Perched on the Cumberland Plateau, the Mountain Goat Trail is a work in progress with big ambitions. When finished, it will connect seven towns across more than 35 miles, but several paved sections are already open and rideable. The trail winds through college-town Sewanee, passes near Monteagle, and reaches toward Tracy City, offering a mix of wooded stretches, plateau views, and easy access to local cafés and markets.
Sewanee is the heart of the trail system and a great place to start. The University of the South campus adds a historic, intellectual vibe to the area, and downtown Sewanee has coffee shops, a market, and restaurants that welcome hungry cyclists. The trail itself is paved and mostly flat, though the plateau’s elevation means cooler temperatures and crisp air, especially in spring and fall.
As you ride, you’ll pass through forests, cross quiet roads, and catch glimpses of the surrounding mountains. The finished sections are well-maintained and clearly marked, making it easy to follow. Detours into Monteagle or Tracy City are worth the effort if you want to explore small-town shops, grab a sandwich, or visit a local historic site.
The Mountain Goat Trail Alliance is actively working to expand the trail, so check their website for updates on new sections and closures. Weekdays are quieter than weekends, and the cooler months offer the best riding weather since summer can get hot and humid.
What makes this trail special is the combination of natural beauty and community character. You’re not just riding through the woods—you’re connecting with small towns that have their own stories, food, and local flavor. Bring layers since the plateau can be cooler than the valleys below, and plan to linger in Sewanee for a post-ride meal or coffee.
This trail rewards those who take their time and explore beyond the pavement.
5. Maryville-Alcoa Greenway — Blount County
Tucked in the foothills of the Smokies, the Maryville-Alcoa Greenway is a local favorite that quietly delivers more than 18 miles of paved, multi-use trails. This system connects parks, neighborhoods, schools, and picnic spots across Blount County, giving riders a peaceful escape without leaving town. The views of the nearby mountains add a bonus layer of beauty that most urban greenways can’t match.
The trails are well-maintained and mostly flat, making them ideal for families, beginners, and anyone looking for a relaxed ride. You can piece together different sections to create your own route, or follow the main greenway from end to end. Along the way, you’ll pass playgrounds, shaded benches, and spots perfect for a quick break or snack.
Maryville’s downtown area is close to several trailheads, so you can grab coffee or lunch before or after your ride. Alcoa also has restaurants and shops within easy reach of the greenway. The trail system is popular with locals, so you’ll see runners, walkers, and other cyclists, especially in the mornings and evenings.
Spring and fall are the best times to ride, with mild temperatures and colorful scenery. Summer can be warm, but the tree cover along much of the trail provides shade. Winter is quiet and peaceful, though you’ll want to dress warmly since the mountain air can be chilly.
What sets this greenway apart is its connection to the Smoky Mountain foothills. Even though you’re riding through town, the mountains are always visible in the distance, reminding you that you’re just a short drive from some of the best wilderness in the Southeast. The Maryville-Alcoa Greenway is proof that you don’t need to go deep into the backcountry to enjoy Tennessee’s natural beauty.
Sometimes the best rides are the ones that blend community, convenience, and mountain views into one easy-to-access package.
6. Stones River Greenway — Nashville
Nashville has plenty of greenways, but the Stones River Greenway stands out for its mix of nature and accessibility. This 10.7-mile trail follows the Stones River and connects Two Rivers Park, Shelby Bottoms, and the J. Percy Priest Dam area.
You get river views, tree canopy, wildlife sightings, and a sense of being far from the city even though you’re just minutes from downtown.
The trail is paved and mostly flat, with a few gentle hills that add interest without making the ride difficult. Bridges cross the river in several spots, giving you different perspectives on the water and the surrounding forest. Great blue herons, turtles, and deer are common sights, and birdwatchers love this trail for the variety of species that call the area home.
Two Rivers Park is a great starting point, with parking, restrooms, and picnic areas. From there, you can ride toward Shelby Bottoms or head toward the dam, depending on how far you want to go. The trail is well-marked and easy to follow, with connections to other Nashville greenways if you want to extend your ride.
Weekends can get busy, especially in good weather, so early mornings or weekdays offer a quieter experience. The trail is open year-round, and each season brings a different feel—spring wildflowers, summer greenery, fall colors, and winter’s bare trees that open up views of the river.
What makes this greenway special is the sense of escape it provides. You’re still in Nashville, but the trail feels like a retreat into nature. The sound of the river replaces traffic noise, and the tree cover creates a canopy that cools the ride even on hot days.
Bring water, snacks, and a camera, and plan to take your time. The Stones River Greenway rewards those who slow down and notice the details—the light on the water, the rustle of leaves, the quiet moments that make a bike ride more than just exercise.
7. Shelby Farms Greenline — Memphis
Memphis’s Shelby Farms Greenline is a 12.94-mile paved rail-trail that connects Midtown Memphis to Shelby Farms Park and the suburb of Cordova. This isn’t just a bike path—it’s a green corridor that cuts through the city, offering shade, neighborhoods, parkland, and easy access to food and coffee stops along the way. It’s one of the most popular trails in the city, and for good reason.
The Greenline follows an old railroad route, which means it’s mostly flat and easy to ride. The trail is wide enough for cyclists, runners, and walkers to share comfortably, and the tree canopy provides shade for much of the route. You’ll pass through residential areas, cross streets at marked intersections, and eventually reach Shelby Farms Park, one of the largest urban parks in the country.
Midtown Memphis is a great place to start, with coffee shops, restaurants, and bike-friendly spots near the trailhead. As you ride, you’ll pass through neighborhoods where you can detour for a snack or drink. Shelby Farms Park itself has trails, lakes, playgrounds, and a visitor center with food options, making it a perfect mid-ride or end-of-ride destination.
The Greenline is popular with locals, so expect to see plenty of people, especially on weekends and evenings. Mornings tend to be quieter, and the trail is well-lit in several sections, making it a popular choice for early or late rides. The surface is smooth and well-maintained, and the trail is open year-round.
What makes the Greenline special is the way it weaves through the city without feeling crowded or chaotic. You’re riding through Memphis, but the trees and distance from major roads create a sense of separation from the urban hustle. It’s a commuter route, a fitness trail, and a recreational ride all in one.
Whether you’re heading to Shelby Farms for a longer adventure or just cruising a few miles and back, the Greenline delivers a Memphis experience that’s green, accessible, and fun.
8. Kingsport Greenbelt — Kingsport
Kingsport’s Greenbelt is a hidden gem in East Tennessee, offering 11 miles of paved or concrete trail that winds through the city’s parks, neighborhoods, and natural areas. This trail has a relaxed, small-town vibe with river scenery, creekside stretches, and a mountain-town atmosphere that makes every ride feel like a mini-vacation. You won’t find crowds or traffic here—just a well-maintained path that locals use and love.
The Greenbelt connects parks, schools, shopping centers, and residential areas, making it both a recreational trail and a practical commuter route. The terrain is mostly flat with a few gentle hills, and the trail is wide enough for cyclists, walkers, and runners to share comfortably. Several access points make it easy to jump on the trail wherever you are in the city.
One of the highlights is the section that follows the Holston River, where you can watch the water flow, spot wildlife, and enjoy the sound of the current. Other sections wind through wooded areas and past historic sites that tell the story of Kingsport’s past. The trail is well-marked and easy to follow, with benches, water fountains, and restrooms at key points.
Kingsport has a strong cycling community, and the Greenbelt is the heart of it. You’ll see families, serious cyclists, and casual riders all sharing the trail. Weekends are busiest, but the trail never feels overcrowded.
Mornings and late afternoons are especially pleasant, with cooler temperatures and softer light.
What makes the Kingsport Greenbelt special is its sense of place. This is a trail built by and for the community, and it shows in the care and attention to detail. The trail is clean, safe, and thoughtfully designed to showcase the best of Kingsport’s natural and urban landscapes.
Bring your bike, explore the different sections, and discover why locals consider this trail one of the best-kept secrets in East Tennessee. It’s not flashy or famous, but it’s exactly what a good greenway should be—accessible, enjoyable, and deeply connected to the place it serves.
9. Shelby Bottoms Greenway — Nashville
Shelby Bottoms Greenway is one of Nashville’s most beloved trails, and it’s easy to see why. This urban-nature ride hugs the Cumberland River and offers a mix of wooded sections, open fields, and river views that make you forget you’re just minutes from downtown. The trail is part of Nashville’s extensive greenway system, which includes more than 99 miles of paved off-street paths.
The main loop at Shelby Bottoms is about 5 miles, but you can connect to other trails and extend your ride to 8 miles or more. The trail is paved, mostly flat, and suitable for all skill levels. You’ll cross pedestrian bridges, wind through forests, and pass wetlands where birds and other wildlife thrive.
The sense of being in nature is strong, even though the city skyline is visible in the distance.
Shelby Bottoms Nature Center is a great place to start, with parking, restrooms, maps, and educational exhibits about the area’s ecology. From there, you can ride the loop in either direction or connect to the Stones River Greenway for a longer adventure. The trail is well-maintained and clearly marked, with benches and water fountains along the way.
East Nashville is just a short ride from the trailhead, so you can easily grab breakfast, lunch, or coffee before or after your ride. The neighborhood is known for its eclectic food scene, vintage shops, and laid-back vibe, making it a perfect complement to a morning on the trail.
Weekends can get busy, especially in spring and fall when the weather is perfect. Mornings and weekdays offer a quieter experience, with fewer people and more opportunities to spot wildlife. The trail is open year-round, and each season brings a different look and feel.
What makes Shelby Bottoms special is the way it balances accessibility and wildness. You’re close to the city, but the trail feels like a true nature escape. The river, the trees, the birds—all of it combines to create a ride that’s both peaceful and invigorating.
If you’re in Nashville and want a quick outdoor fix, this is the place to go.
10. Cumberland River Greenway — Nashville
Nashville’s Cumberland River Greenway is a solid choice for anyone who wants an easy urban-nature ride with plenty of river views and quick access to East Nashville’s food and coffee scene. This greenway is part of Nashville’s 99-plus-mile network of paved off-street trails, and it delivers a relaxed ride with just enough scenery to keep things interesting.
The trail follows the Cumberland River and connects several parks, neighborhoods, and greenspaces. You’ll ride through wooded sections, cross pedestrian bridges, and enjoy views of the water at multiple points. The trail is paved, mostly flat, and beginner-friendly, making it a great option for families, casual riders, or anyone who wants a low-stress ride.
One of the best features is the proximity to East Nashville, where you can find breakfast spots, lunch cafés, coffee shops, and bakeries within a short ride of the trail. Start your ride early, explore the greenway, and then head into the neighborhood for a post-ride meal. The combination of trail time and city stops makes this a versatile outing that can fit any schedule.
The greenway is popular with locals, so you’ll see runners, walkers, and other cyclists, especially on weekends and evenings. Mornings are quieter and offer cooler temperatures, making them ideal for longer rides. The trail is well-marked and easy to follow, with several access points and parking areas along the route.
Spring and fall are the best times to ride, with mild weather and colorful scenery. Summer can be hot, but the tree cover along parts of the trail provides shade. Winter is quiet and peaceful, though you’ll want to dress warmly since temperatures can drop.
What makes the Cumberland River Greenway stand out is the balance it strikes between nature and convenience. You’re riding along a river, surrounded by trees and water, but you’re never far from the city’s amenities. It’s a practical trail that also happens to be beautiful, and that combination makes it a favorite among Nashville cyclists.
Whether you’re commuting, exercising, or just exploring, this greenway delivers a ride that’s easy, enjoyable, and deeply connected to the city it serves.