Knoxvillegateway to the smokies

This national park is one of the largest protected areas in the United States, encompassing more than 800 miles of trails, yet it's just 30 minutes from downtown Knoxville. Fishermen, hikers, picnickers and swimmers visit the park year round, and there are also opportunities for cycling and horseback riding. One of the oldest mountain ranges in North America, the Smokies have an incredible diversity of geography, geology, and plant and animal life, with a wide variety of terrain. There are also historic viewing areas where you can visit the rugged sites of 19th century cabins and homesteads.