The best running trails in Blount County
190
runners
20
runs
Jogging in Blount County offers diverse landscapes, from the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park to extensive greenway systems. The region features majestic mountain views, including Thunderhead Mountain, and scenic spots like Abrams Falls. Rivers such as the Little River and Little Tennessee River traverse the county, contributing to varied terrain. The area is also characterized by picturesque Appalachian coves, including the well-known Cades Cove.
Best jogging routes in Blount County
- The most popular jogging route is Russell Field and Anthony Creek Trail Loop, a 10.2 miles (16.4 km) trail that takes 2 hours 23 minutes to complete. This difficult route features significant elevation gain and offers views of Cades Cove.
- Another top favourite among local runners is Greenbelt Lake loop from Alcoa, a moderate 6.1 miles (9.8 km) path. This route provides a relatively flat experience around Greenbelt Lake, suitable for a steady run.
- Local runners also love the Tucker Springs loop from Pearson Springs Park, a 2.7 miles (4.4 km) trail leading through local parkland, often completed in about 27 minutes.
- Jogging in Blount County is defined by mountain foothills, river valleys, and extensive greenway systems like the Maryville-Alcoa Greenway. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy paved paths to challenging mountain trails.
- The guide includes highly-rated routes that showcase the best of the region's landscape. More than 190 runners have used komoot to explore Blount County's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 7, 2026
1
runners
16.4km
02:23
720m
720m
Jog the difficult 10.2-mile Russell Field and Anthony Creek Trail Loop, gaining 2369 feet with views of Cades Cove and the AT.
31
runners
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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19
runners
10.2km
01:03
20m
20m
The Greenbelt Lake (Dry Riverbed) – Greenbelt Lake loop from Alcoa offers a delightful and accessible jogging experience through varied scenery. You'll circle Greenbelt Lake, passing through pleasant wooded areas, open fields, and parks like Springbrook Park and Bicentennial Park. Keep an eye out for the charming Alcoa Duck Pond and the scenic waterfall in Bicentennial Park, which add character to this generally flat route. It's a great option for a consistent workout with plenty to see.
Planning your visit is straightforward, as this route is part of the well-maintained Maryville-Alcoa Greenway. You'll find ample parking and restrooms at various points along the greenway, making it easy to start your run. While no permits are needed, it's a popular spot, so consider an early start for a more tranquil experience.
This moderate 6.4-mile (10.2 km) loop, with a minimal 76 feet (23 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 1 hour and 3 minutes to complete. It's an ideal trail for those seeking a steady, scenic jog without significant climbs, connecting you to the broader Maryville-Alcoa Greenway network that links parks, schools, and neighborhoods.
16
runners
4.39km
00:28
40m
40m
Easy run. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
10
runners
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
17
runners
12.1km
01:15
50m
50m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
15
runners
9.83km
01:01
40m
40m
The Greenbelt Lake loop from Maryville offers a delightful escape into nature right within the city. You'll find yourself jogging along paved, well-maintained pathways, enjoying picturesque views of the creek and the tranquil Greenbelt Lake itself. The route winds through lush green spaces, dotted with a mix of trees, shrubs, and flowers, providing a pleasant backdrop for your run. It's a truly accessible jogging route, perfect for unwinding and enjoying some fresh air.
Planning your visit to this popular trail is straightforward. The Greenbelt Lake loop is part of the larger Bicentennial Greenbelt Park, an urban green space with amenities like a playground. Parking is readily available at the park, making access easy for your run. This trail is suitable for all fitness levels and can be enjoyed year-round, though spring and fall offer particularly pleasant temperatures.
This 6.1-mile (9.8 km) jogging route, with a minimal 118 feet (36 metres) of elevation gain, is rated as moderate and typically takes about 1 hour and 1 minute to complete. It's a fantastic option for those seeking Greenbelt Lake Maryville TN trail information for a quick, scenic workout. The park is a beloved local spot, popular with walkers, cyclists, and families, and you might even spot some Canada geese along the way.
9
runners
15.6km
01:42
70m
70m
Embark on the Springbrook Park – Alcoa Duck Pond loop from Clayton Homes, a 9.7-mile (15.6 km) jogging route that offers a delightful blend of parkland and waterside scenery. You'll navigate through the lush 62-acre Springbrook Park, shaded by numerous trees and dotted with flowering shrubs, before reaching the tranquil 7.7-acre Alcoa Duck Pond. Here, you might spot Mallards or Great Blue Herons amidst the weeping willows, providing a scenic break from your run. The terrain is a mix of paved and natural surfaces, generally flat or gently undulating, making for a consistent, albeit long, effort.
This difficult jogging route, with its 231 feet (70 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 1 hour and 41 minutes to complete. The trail is well-suited for experienced joggers seeking a sustained workout rather than steep climbs. Access is convenient from Clayton Homes, with parking available in the Springbrook Park area. Consider an early morning or late afternoon run, especially if you want to take advantage of the lighted sections of the connected Maryville-Alcoa Greenway.
The route is a fantastic way to experience Alcoa's commitment to green spaces, passing through Springbrook Park, a valuable community asset with amenities like picnic areas and playgrounds. The Alcoa Duck Pond itself is a popular spot for birdwatching and fishing, adding a peaceful natural element to your run. This loop integrates seamlessly into the larger Maryville-Alcoa Greenway system, offering further exploration opportunities along Pistol Creek.
6
runners
9.38km
00:59
70m
70m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
9
runners
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Blount County
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Tips from the Community
This is a lovely 7.7-acre pond that is located near the Maryville-Alcoa Greenway. In fact, the greenway runs right alongside the pond. The views of the pond are great, and it is a popular place for bird watchers.
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Greenbelt Lake is the centerpiece of Bicentennial Greenbelt Park and can be circled using both sides of the Maryville Greenbelt. The Alcoa Greenway is another paved bike trail that connects to this path not far from here.
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Tucker Springs is a small spring by a large rock wall just off of the Maryville Greenbelt, a popular multi-use path. This is a nice place to pause on your ride, and it's easy to find because there is a historical marker sign.
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The Maryville Greenbelt Amphitheater is located right in the middle of the courthouse section of the Bicentennial Greenbelt Park. The amphitheater is popular for concerts and live music (especially in the fall for the Foothills Fall Festival). There is a paved loop that you can run in the park along with extensions of the greenbelt in both directions.
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Greenbelt Lake is the centerpiece of Bicentennial Greenbelt Park and can be circled using both sides of the Maryville Greenbelt. The Alcoa Greenway is another paved bike trail that connects to this path not far from here.
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Russell Field Shelter is a reservation only backcountry shelter off of the Appalachian Trail in the Smoky Mountains. The shelter has a water source a couple hundred meters downhill from the sleeping area. Like other shelters in the park, this area is heavily frequented by bears so you should be prepared to hang bags if you decide to stay the night.
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Being one of the first trails you see when entering Cades Cove, you would think that this trail would be a lot more crowded than it is. Anthony Creek Trail follows Anthony Creek (hence its name) from the Cades Cove Group Campground until it ties into Bote Mountain Trail. There is the option to camp at a backcountry campsite off the side of the trail, and you have the ability to tie this trail into others to make a bunch of different loops and routes.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of running routes can I find in Blount County?
Blount County offers a diverse range of running routes, from extensive greenway systems like the Maryville-Alcoa Greenway to challenging mountain trails in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. You'll find options suitable for various fitness levels, including easy paved paths and routes with significant elevation gain.
Are there any easy or beginner-friendly jogging trails in Blount County?
Yes, Blount County has several easy jogging routes. The Maryville-Alcoa Greenway provides a mostly paved, relatively flat experience connecting Springbrook Park in Alcoa with parks in Maryville. For a shorter, easy loop, consider the Tucker Springs loop from Pearson Springs Park, which is 2.7 miles (4.4 km) and leads through local parkland.
Can I find running routes with scenic views or natural attractions?
Absolutely. The southern part of Blount County is within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, offering majestic mountain views, including Thunderhead Mountain. Routes like the challenging Russell Field and Anthony Creek Trail Loop provide views of Cades Cove. You can also explore areas with waterfalls such as Abrams Falls, Spruce Flats Falls, and Lynn Camp Cascades.
Are there any dog-friendly running trails in Blount County?
Many of the greenway sections and park trails in Blount County are dog-friendly, provided your pet is on a leash and you follow local park rules. Always check specific trail regulations before heading out, especially within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park where rules can be stricter.
What are the options for family-friendly jogging or running with children?
The Maryville-Alcoa Greenway is an excellent choice for families, offering paved, well-maintained paths suitable for strollers and younger runners. Within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the Cades Cove area features easy, family-friendly routes like the Cades Cove Nature Trail, perfect for wildlife spotting. The Greenbelt Lake loop from Alcoa is another moderate option that is relatively flat and suitable for a steady family run.
Are there any circular running routes or loops available?
Yes, many running routes in Blount County are designed as loops. Popular options include the Greenbelt Lake loop from Alcoa, the Tucker Springs loop from Pearson Springs Park, and the more challenging Russell Field and Anthony Creek Trail Loop. The Springbrook Park in Alcoa also features its own 1.5-mile circular trail.
Where can I find parking or public transport access for these running routes?
Many parks along the Maryville-Alcoa Greenway, such as Springbrook Park and Pearson Springs Park, offer dedicated parking. For routes within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, designated parking areas are available at trailheads. While public transport options directly to all trailheads might be limited, the greenway system is designed to be accessible from various points within Maryville and Alcoa.
What is the best time of year to go jogging in Blount County?
Blount County offers good running conditions throughout much of the year. Spring and fall provide pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, especially with fall foliage in the Smoky Mountains. Summer can be warm and humid, so early morning or late evening runs are often preferred. Winter running is possible, but some higher elevation trails in the national park may have seasonal closures or require appropriate gear due to snow and ice.
Are there any running events or groups in Blount County?
Blount County has an active running community. The annual Healthy Blount Triple Crown of Running features three races: the Spring Sprint, Scholars Run, and Reindeer Run. Additionally, the Run 4 Fun Running Program offers training and group runs for various skill levels, from beginners to intermediate runners.
Are there any long-distance running routes for experienced runners?
For experienced runners seeking a challenge, the Russell Field and Anthony Creek Trail Loop is a difficult 10.2-mile (16.4 km) route with significant elevation gain. Another longer option is the Greenbelt Lake (Dry Riverbed) – Greenbelt Lake loop from Clayton Homes, which spans over 13 miles (21 km).
What landmarks or points of interest can I see while running in Blount County?
Beyond the natural beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains, you might encounter historical sites like the John Oliver Cabin in Cades Cove. The Maryville-Alcoa Greenway itself connects various parks, offering different points of interest along its path. The Foothills Parkway also provides stunning mountain vistas for those seeking a challenging, scenic run.
Most popular routes in Blount County
Most popular attractions in Blount County
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