The best traffic-free bike rides in Blount County

There are 10 dedicated no traffic touring cycling routes in Blount County featured in this guide. These routes offer a range of experiences, from easy rides to more challenging ascents.

Blount County offers excellent cycling opportunities throughout much of the year. Spring and fall provide pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, especially with the changing leaves. Summer can be warm, but routes like the Cades Cove Loop Road are often cooler in the early mornings. Winters are generally mild, allowing for cycling on many days, though some higher elevation areas might experience colder conditions.

Yes, Blount County has several easy, no traffic routes perfect for families. The Maryville-Alcoa Greenway system, for instance, offers nearly 15 miles of flat, paved trails. Within this guide, you'll find routes like the Greenbelt Lake (Dry Riverbed) – Greenbelt Lake loop from Clayton Homes and the Greenbelt Lake – Greenbelt Lake (Dry Riverbed) loop from Pearson Springs Park, which are rated as easy and suitable for a relaxed family outing.

Blount County, as a gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, offers stunning natural beauty. Many routes provide access to or views of waterfalls like Abrams Falls, Spruce Flats Falls, and Lynn Camp Cascades. You might also encounter scenic viewpoints such as Spence Field, offering panoramic mountain vistas.

Yes, several routes pass by or offer access to historical sites. For example, the Tremont Logging History Auto Tour provides insights into the region's past. Within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, you can also find historical structures like the John Oliver Cabin, offering a glimpse into early settler life.

The routes in this guide cater to various skill levels. There are 7 easy routes, 2 moderate routes, and 1 difficult route. For a challenging ride with significant elevation changes and rewarding views, consider the Cades Cove Loop Road – Beautiful view of the Valley loop from Townsend. For a more relaxed experience, the Greenbelt Lake loops are ideal.

Yes, many of the no traffic touring cycling routes in Blount County are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Greenbelt Lake (Dry Riverbed) – Greenbelt Lake loop from Clayton Homes and the Old Walland Highway loop from Fairfield, providing convenient circular journeys.

The komoot community highly rates the touring cycling experience in Blount County, with an average score of 4.9 out of 5 stars from 22 ratings. Reviewers often praise the peaceful rural back roads, the stunning mountain views, and the diverse terrain that caters to all levels. The absence of traffic on these selected routes is a frequently highlighted benefit, allowing for a truly immersive and relaxing ride.

Parking availability varies by route. Many greenway access points and trailheads, especially for routes like those around Greenbelt Lake, offer dedicated parking areas. For routes within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, designated parking lots are available. It's always recommended to check the specific route details on komoot for precise parking information.

While many of the no traffic routes offer a serene, natural experience, towns like Maryville, Alcoa, and Townsend, which are often starting points or nearby, provide various amenities including cafes, restaurants, and bike shops. The Maryville-Alcoa Greenway, for instance, connects to several community facilities. For routes deeper within the national park, amenities are more limited, so plan accordingly.

Public transport options directly to the trailheads of these no traffic touring cycling routes in Blount County are generally limited. Most routes are best accessed by personal vehicle. However, the extensive Maryville-Alcoa Greenway system is integrated within the urban areas, making some sections potentially accessible by local services or short rides from populated centers.