Your Guide to Free Fitness and Adventure in Knoxville's Parks
Want to be active but don’t want to spend money on a gym membership? You’re in luck!
Knoxville offers plenty of opportunities to get moving without spending a dime. There are tons of ways to stay fit and have fun—without the cost. Here are a few options to get you started!
House Mountain State Natural Area
House Mountain is a great option for hiking close to Knoxville. It’s a great outdoor escape just a short drive from the city offering a hike that ends in breathtaking views of Knox County. The hike is approximately four miles round-trip, with an elevation gain of about 1,000 feet. While the trail is challenging, it’s a favorite among hikers of all levels who are looking for a rewarding adventure. It’s a great workout, and the stunning views at the summit make the effort well worth it!
Lakeshore Park
Head to Lakeshore Park, and you'll find endless opportunities to stay active! With walking trails that loop around the park and wind through its scenic spaces making it the perfect spot for a walk or run. Lakeshore went through major renovations, adding even more ways to stay active with the whole family. Pickleball courts and a basketball court offer a great option for exercise and friendly competition. A great new feature is the outdoor adult fitness center, with equipment that targets different muscle groups, plus a dedicated area for TRX and HIIT workouts.
For the kids, there are two brand new playgrounds giving families even more space to enjoy this popular park. Whether you’re working out, playing sports, or enjoying the outdoors, Lakeshore Park has something for everyone looking to get active!
Victor Ashe Park
Victor Ashe Park is a spacious and scenic park in Northwest Knoxville, just off Pleasant Ridge Rd. It offers a variety of walking trails perfect for biking, walking, or running. The park also includes soccer fields and a disc golf course. A pavilion is available for family picnics or kids' birthday parties. Reservations are needed to use the soccer fields and pavilion. Gather your friends for a fun game of sand volleyball or bring your pups to enjoy the fenced dog park!
Concord Park
Concord Park is a local favorite for enjoying beautiful days outdoors! With stunning lake views at every turn, it’s the perfect spot to get active. Located along Northshore Drive & Fort Loudon Lake in West Knoxville, the park offers a peaceful escape with plenty of opportunities to be active, whether you're walking, running, picnicking, or simply taking in the scenery.
Cove at Concord Park
The Cove is a popular destination within the park, offering something for everyone. Enjoy public fishing, paved and nature trails for biking, and swimming, a playground for kids, and sand volleyball—all in one spot. The options for outdoor activities are endless! Don’t forget to take a dip in the roped swimming area, perfect for hot summer days. You can bring your paddleboard or kayak, or rent equipment from River Sports at the Cove if you’re looking to try something new on the water!
Ijams
Ijams Nature Center is a beautiful destination for getting outdoors and staying active in Knoxville. While there is a small parking fee, there are free parking days throughout the year. You can also purchase a parking pass for a fee, which grants you access to the park for the entire year—making it a great option for frequent visitors.
Trails wind through the nature center, there’s even a scenic boardwalk along the Tennessee River, great for walking or running. For those looking for a bit more adventure, the park also features excellent outdoor rock climbing areas.
Swimming is another great outdoor activity at Ijams Nature Center! Mead’s Quarry offers a unique spot for swimming, though it's important to note that swimming is at your own risk. If you’re looking for a different water workout bring your own kayak or paddle board! Kayak rentals are also available.
Last but not least, if you're looking for a truly unique outdoor workout experience, Ijams' Primal Playground is the perfect destination. This one-of-a-kind space offers an intense and invigorating workout, with only the natural elements around you. With wood, rocks, and other natural materials as your equipment, the Primal Playground provides a diverse range of exercises, creating a full-body workout in an outdoor setting. What sets this experience apart is the way it connects you with nature while challenging your fitness level. Whether you're climbing, balancing, or lifting, each element offers a way to push your limits. To help you get started, Ijams provides curated workout plans that you can download to your phone or print out. These plans help you get the most out of the Primal Playground, ensuring you have a structured, effective, and enjoyable workout.
If you're ready to take your fitness outdoors try any of these options to get moving this year!
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