By Kristen Combs, Visit Knoxville Director of Communications & Social Strategies
Whether you’re from here or you’re new to town, there’s no doubt you’ve heard about Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness. But what exactly IS it? It can be a bit difficult to describe, as it’s not a singular destination but a patchwork of places and spaces that invite residents and visitors alike to experience the outdoors in South Knoxville.
Just three miles from downtown, Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness is a spectacular 1,500-acre outdoor adventure area where you can hike, bike, climb, paddle, or just wander in the woods – all within the heart of the city. More than 60 miles of trails and greenways connect you to a beautiful nature center, pristine lakes, historic sites, dramatic quarries, adventure playgrounds, nine city parks, and a 600-acre wildlife area. You’ll find adventures for everyone, without having to go far to find the fun.
The Crown Jewel
At the heart of the Urban Wilderness lies Ijams Nature Center, Knoxville’s very own wildlife sanctuary, providing more than 300 acres of beautiful, gently sloping woodlands hugging the banks of the Tennessee River. Explore an array of habitats and exhibits, a museum store, miles of paved and natural trails, a climbing crag, and more. Ijams also encompasses Ross Marble Quarry and Mead’s Quarry Lake, a nod to Knoxville’s past moniker as the “Marble City” and the latter being the perfect place for a swim or paddle in warmer seasons.
A Tapestry of Trails and Terrains
The South Loop Trail System is a 12.5-mile signed route that guides visitors through Ijams Nature Center, Forks of the River Wildlife Management Area, Helix Trails, William Hastie Natural Area, and Marie Myers Park. The trails vary in difficulty to accommodate hikers, runners, and mountain bikers of all skill levels. For those seeking adrenaline-pumping experiences, Baker Creek Preserve boasts three dedicated downhill paths that challenge even seasoned mountain bikers – like the hair-raising, double-black diamond Devil’s Racetrack – plus an additional five multi-use trails that connect to other 52 miles of trails in the network.
Continue the exploration with a dose of history at Fort Dickerson Park, one of the best-preserved earthen forts from the Civil War era, and High Ground Park, commemorating the historic site of Fort Higley.
Adventure Beyond the Trails
Beyond hiking and biking, the Urban Wilderness offers many activities. Navitat Canopy Adventure is adjacent to Ijams Nature Center and provides six elevated trails featuring ziplines, bridges, and climbing nets – think of it as an obstacle course amidst the treetops, perfect for age 7 and up. The Baker Creek Play Forest is also perfect for families, offering a nature-inspired playground.
Ongoing Developments and Future Plans
The Urban Wilderness continues to evolve, with ongoing projects aimed at enhancing visitor experience. The initial phase of construction, which included a bike park, utilities, a greenway, and additional trail amenities, was completed in 2020. Baker Creek Pavilion was the next phase of construction and opened in 2024, offering additional parking, bathrooms, a shade structure, a water-fill station, and plaza space.
In late 2025, the Urban Wilderness Gateway Park is set to unveil a $4.6 million pavilion and plaza, featuring restrooms, picnic areas, play features, and more. This development will serve as a central hub, connecting the various trailheads and providing a welcoming space for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Two new greenway segments will better connect the South Waterfront and the Urban Wilderness with downtown, East Knoxville, and other points north of the Tennessee River.
A Collaborative Effort
Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness is a collaborative effort to create and preserve public access to the rich natural, historic, cultural, and recreational assets in the heart of Knoxville. Key organizations who formed an alliance to guide the expansion of Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness include the City of Knoxville, Knox County, Legacy Parks Foundation, Aslan Foundation, Tennessee Wildlife Resource Agency, Appalachian Mountain Bike Club, and Ijams Nature Center, working alongside countless other organizations, neighbors, and volunteers. Together, they’ve transformed a vision into a vibrant reality, preserving natural spaces while promoting outdoor recreation and community engagement.
Plan Your Visit
Whether you’re seeking a challenging mountain bike trail, a peaceful hike, or a family-friendly adventure, Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness offers something for everyone. With its diverse landscapes, rich history, and ongoing developments, it’s more than just a park – it’s a dynamic destination that invites exploration and welcomes us all to get out and play!
Plan your visit at KnoxUrbanWilderness.com.