Biking Trails
The Southeast’s Destination for Cycling Trails
Discover Your Next Ride Adventure Here.
Nestled in the heart of East Tennessee, the 9 Lakes Region stands as a premier cycling destination, attracting riders from across the Southeast and beyond. Whether you’re navigating the winding roads of the Cherohala Skyway or conquering the gravity-fed trails at Windrock Bike Park, this area offers a diverse array of terrains to suit every cyclist’s preference. The region’s scenic beauty, coupled with its rich tapestry of lakes, mountains, and forests, provides an unparalleled backdrop for cycling adventures. With new trails continuously emerging, there’s always something fresh to explore. Whether you’re seeking a leisurely ride or an adrenaline-pumping challenge, the 9 Lakes Region promises an unforgettable cycling experience.
Mountain Biking
East Tennessee’s 9 Lakes region is a mountain biker’s playground—home to rugged climbs, fast descents, and wooded trails with epic views. From beginner loops to technical singletrack, these trails twist through forests, hug lake edges, and deliver a serious adrenaline fix. With ride-in campgrounds, lake access, and year-round beauty, your next dirt adventure starts here.- Baker Creek Preserve Bike Park 22 trails/ EV bikes allowed on designated trails
- Big South Fork National River and Recreation IMBA Epic 33.1 miles
- Concord Park 8.2 miles
- Frozen Head State Park 9 mile loop
- I.C King Park 7 miles
- Ijams Nature Center and Quarry 10 miles
- Haw Ridge 33 miles
- Norris Area Trail System 95 miles
- Panther Creek State Park 8 miles/ EV bikes allowed on designated trails
- Urban Wilderness 60 miles- MTB to natural surface trail
- Windrock Bike Park Gravity Downhill- 51 trails, 21 miles
Road (paved)
Rolling hills, lakeside highways, and quiet country roads make the 9 Lakes region a dream for road cyclists. Take in panoramic views as you pedal past historic towns, farmland, and glistening lake shores. With miles of low-traffic routes and challenging climbs, you’ll find rides that inspire whether you’re training, touring, or just out for the joy of the ride.- Blaine to Rutledge 19.6 mile bike lane, one way.
- Cades Cove loop 11 miles seasonal May through Sept on Wednesdays
- Cherohala Skyway 43 miles
- Historic Rugby 10 miles out and back
- Maryville- Alcoa Greenway 18 miles
- Melton Lake Greenway 5.7 miles, one way
- Paint Creek Corridor 12 miles, one way
- Townsend Historical Trail 9 miles
- Will Skelton Greenway 3.5 miles
Gravel Trails
Gravel cyclists will find miles of mixed terrain to explore in the 9 Lakes region. Wind through forest service roads, farmland backroads, and remote lakeside paths where pavement ends and adventure begins. With a blend of elevation, scenery, and solitude, East Tennessee’s gravel routes are perfect for those who crave freedom, grit, and a little dust on the tires.- Bald River Loop 31 miles starts at FR 384 at the ranger station
- Black Oak Ridge Conservation Easement 11 miles Closed during hunt season.
- Chuck Swan WMA 71 miles- dirt/ gravel, 27.6 mile loop – Closed during hunt season
- Forks of the River 6.5 miles
- Indian Boundary Loop trail Cherokee NF- 3.6 miles