The best road cycling routes in Tennessee

Tennessee offers a vast network for road cyclists, with nearly a thousand routes documented on komoot. This includes a wide range of options, from easy greenway loops to challenging mountain climbs, ensuring there's something for every skill level.

Tennessee's diverse topography provides varied terrain. You'll find majestic mountains and dense forests in the east, rolling hills in the central part, and flatter riverfront paths in the west. The Prentice Cooper State Forest loop from Chattanooga, for instance, offers significant elevation gains, while routes like the Murfreesboro Greenway provide easier, flatter rides.

Absolutely. For advanced cyclists seeking a challenge, routes like the Mississippi River Trail and Meeman-Shelby Forest Loop offer significant elevation and distance. The Cherohala Skyway National Scenic Byway, mentioned in regional research, is also known for its demanding climbs and sweeping mountain views.

Many routes are suitable for families, particularly the paved greenways. The Murfreesboro Greenway is an easy 15.5-mile trail with riverside views and historical sites, perfect for a leisurely family ride. Another great option is the Shelby Bottoms Greenway Loop in Nashville, an easy 11.5-mile paved path.

Tennessee's routes often pass by stunning natural features. You can cycle near the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which features highlights like Laurel Falls and Newfound Gap and Overlook. The Franklin - Natchez Trace Parkway Loop offers a scenic experience along a historic parkway. Other notable attractions include Sunset Rock Overlook and Benton Falls.

Yes, many road cycling routes in Tennessee are designed as loops, offering a convenient way to start and end your ride at the same point. Examples include the Franklin - Natchez Trace Parkway Loop and the Shelby Bottoms Greenway Loop. The region also features the 11-mile loop at Cades Cove in the Great Smoky Mountains, which is popular for its vehicle-free days.

The spring and fall seasons are generally ideal for road cycling in Tennessee. Spring brings mild temperatures and blooming landscapes, while fall offers cooler weather and spectacular fall foliage, especially in the mountainous eastern regions like the Appalachian Range and Cherokee National Forest. Summers can be hot and humid, and winters can be cold, particularly at higher elevations.

The road cycling routes in Tennessee are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 150 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse terrain, from quiet woodlands to scenic riverfronts, and the variety of options available for all ability levels. The well-maintained paths and stunning natural beauty are frequently highlighted.

For those seeking longer rides, Tennessee offers several options. The Natchez Trace Parkway, a 444-mile National Park Service road, provides an extensive, commercial-traffic-free route. Within komoot, routes like the Mississippi River Trail and Meeman-Shelby Forest Loop span over 77 miles, offering a significant challenge for endurance riders.

Yes, Tennessee is home to several beautiful waterfalls that can be incorporated into or viewed near cycling routes. The region research highlights Laurel Falls in the Great Smoky Mountains and Benton Falls. Fall Creek Falls State Park also boasts one of the highest waterfalls east of the Rocky Mountains, offering a spectacular sight.

Many routes in Tennessee provide stunning views of the Tennessee River. The river winds through the heart of the region, offering picturesque scenery. Routes around Chattanooga, such as those exploring the Tennessee River Gorge, are excellent choices for experiencing these riverfront vistas. The Prentice Cooper State Forest loop from Sequatchie via Tennessee River Gorge is a great example.

To avoid crowds, consider exploring routes in the Cherokee National Forest or the less-traveled sections of the Natchez Trace Parkway, particularly outside of peak tourist seasons. Many of the routes curated by Bike Tennessee focus on quiet backroads, minimizing traffic and maximizing scenic enjoyment. The Foothills Tour, for example, takes you through more secluded areas.