Now that we’re into the New Year, you have to live up to your resolutions to exercise more this year. Fortunately, in Knoxville, there are so many wonderful places to walk, run, hike, and cycle your way to better health.
Parks. Knoxville has more than 80 parks with over 1,850 acres of fun. No matter what part of the city you’re in, you’re minutes to the nearest park.
Victor Ashe Park in Northwest Knoxville features a paved loop and is a popular cross
country venue for local middle and high schools. The park also has a disc golf course, soccer fields, a play area, and a popular dog park for your furry friend.
Adair Park in North Knoxville features a one mile path through forest area that runs along a pond and a creek. It also features butterfly gardens, a gazebo available for rental, and a playground.
Ijam’s Nature Center in South Knoxville is one of the city’s most valuable treasures. The paved and unpaved nature trails on the 100-acre grounds are perfect for the whole family. The nature center offers a variety of programs, something for everyone.
Tyson Park in West Knoxville features tennis courts, baseball/softball fields, and a skate park.
Anchor Park is located on the waterfront in Farragut. It features paved pathways, athletic fields, a fishing pier, and a picnic pavilion.
Greenways. In Knoxville, there are more than 60 miles of paved greenway trails that are perfect for biking, walking, and jogging. Many of these greenway trails connect to neighborhoods, cultural centers, and historic places throughout Knoxville.
In Blount County, the Maryville-Alcoa paved greenway connects the two cities. With multiple entry points, the greenway is easily accessible to residents.
The master plan in the works is to link the Knoxville greenway system with the 9-mile Maryville-Alcoa greenway system.
Trails. In East Tennessee, hiking, mountain biking, and trail running are very popular. In the greater Knoxville area, popular off-road venues include I.C. King Park in South Knoxville, Haw Ridge along the Clinch River, North Boundary Greenway in Oak Ridge, Concord Park in Farragut, and Melton Hill Park in Northwest Knox County.
The Smoky Mountains, a half-hour from Knoxville, is an outdoor lover’s dream. Featuring more than 800 miles of hiking trails, all fitness levels can find the perfect trail and enjoy a day of hiking.
The Knoxville Track Club, one of the top ten track and field clubs in the United States, feature group runs, running programs, and races that will help you accomplish your 2012 fitness goals.