When it comes to staying active, Knoxville offers something for everyone. If you’re visiting, you don’t need a gym membership to meet your fitness goals! Whether you prefer logging miles on a trail, paddling across the water, biking a greenway, or enjoying an outdoor workout in the park, Knoxville’s incredible outdoor spaces make it easy to get moving while enjoying nature. Plus, studies show exercising in nature can reduce stress and boost mental well-being!

Here are some of the best places to get fit outdoors in Knoxville:

 

On a Trail: Urban Wilderness

For runners, hikers, and mountain bikers, Knoxville's Urban Wilderness is an outdoor fitness paradise just one mile from downtown! With more than 70 miles of trails connecting parks, natural areas, and recreational destinations, the Urban Wilderness offers options for every skill level.

Beginners can enjoy a walk around the trails at Fort Dickerson Park while experienced trail runners can tackle the twisty, rocky route from Turnbuckle to Burnett Ridge Trail around Meads Quarry at Ijams Nature Center. Mountain bikers will find challenging climbs and exhilarating descents throughout Baker Creek Preserve and William Hastie Natural Area.

Need a bike? No problem! BearPaw Bikes is on-site at Baker Creek Preserve to outfit you with a mountain bike rental or help you with any bike maintenance needs!
 

On the Water: French Broad River

For a full-body workout that combines adventure and some of the most beautiful scenery in Knox County, paddle the 5-mile route from Seven Islands State Birding Park to Cruze Landing. This stretch of the French Broad River offers views of Tennessee’s only dedicated birding park, forested shorelines, farmland, wildlife habitat (even bald eagles!) and the scenic beauty that makes the French Broad River such a treasure.

Paddling engages your core, shoulders, arms, and back while providing a low-impact cardiovascular workout. Both the put-in and take-out points have accessible kayak launches, making it easier for everyone to enjoy this beautiful outdoor experience.

Tip for making it easy: reserve a shuttle and rented kayaks from Knoxville Adventure Collective and don’t worry about the logistics!
 

On the Greenway: Lakeshore Park

Situated on 185-acres along the Tennessee River, Lakeshore Park offers something for everyone -  four playgrounds for kids, expansive fields for playing or picnics, pickleball and basketball courts and over three miles of paved greenway loops around the park, ideal for walking or running.

Whether you're looking for a morning walk, a scenic run, a family outing, or simply a place to unwind outdoors, Lakeshore Park is a must-see destination – and a favorite for Knoxvillians!
 

In a Park: Morningside Park

If you're looking for a free outdoor gym, Morningside Park is a hidden gem in the heart of downtown Knoxville. The park is walkable from Volunteer Landing, a scenic greenway that follows the Tennessee River along downtown. As part of the BlueCross Healthy Place playground, the park features outdoor fitness stations that combine strength training with cardiovascular exercise in a natural setting.

The fitness stations provide opportunities for bodyweight exercises such as pull-ups, step-ups, balance challenges, and other functional movements that help build strength, flexibility, and coordination. Pair the stations with a walk or jog around the park to create a complete full-body workout.
 

Get Outside and Get Moving

One of Knoxville's greatest assets is its abundance of parks, trails, greenways, and waterways that make outdoor recreation accessible to everyone. Whether you're training for a race, trying a new activity, or simply looking for a fun way to stay healthy, you'll find countless opportunities to get fit while enjoying the beauty of East Tennessee!