Cycling Adventures and Culinary Delights Near the Smokies

Embark on an exhilarating cycling adventure through East Tennessee's historic rural landscape on the Davy Crockett Loop, with the Great Smoky Mountains as a stunning backdrop. Starting at David Crockett Birthplace State Park, the route features frequent short climbs and thrilling descents that allow riders to find their rhythm. Along the Nolichucky River, the park offers river rentals, camping, and interpretive exhibits, making it a perfect spot to explore. *The Nolichucky River is closed for the 2025 season.*

• Destination Highlights: Starts at David Crockett Birthplace State Park; explores historic rural landscapes and the banks of the Nolichucky River.
• Parking Information: Ample parking is available at the David Crockett Birthplace State Park main lot.
• Accessibility Options: The route consists of paved road cycling; the state park offers accessible visitor centers and restrooms.
• Scenic Highlights: Stunning backdrops of the Great Smoky Mountains, river views, and historic 18th-century homestead sites.
• Bike Trail Levels: Moderate (Rolling terrain with frequent short climbs and descents).

Ride like a local on the Townsend Out-and-Back, a local favorite offering a refreshing break from strenuous climbs in and around Townsend. Along the Old Walland Highway, enjoy a smooth, rolling ride with only one brief incline, while soaking in the serene beauty of the Little River. Perfect for cyclists craving a leisurely getaway amidst breathtaking scenery, this shorter route embodies the essence of Smoky Mountain tranquility. Join the locals and pedal your way through this hidden gem in the heart of the Smokies.

• Destination Highlights: A relaxing ride along the "Peaceful Side of the Smokies" connecting Townsend to Walland via the Old Walland Highway.
• Parking Information: Recommended parking at the Apple Valley Mountain Village or the Townsend Visitor Center.
• Accessibility Options: Features a paved, separated bike path in town with widened sidewalks and a tunnel under Hwy 321.
• Scenic Highlights: Serene views of the Little River, lush farmland, and majestic mountain vistas.
• Bike Trail Levels: Easy/Intermediate (Flat and rolling terrain with only one brief incline).

This trio of cycling routes really celebrate the incredible views and cycling opportunities in the Sequatchie Valley. In the Upper Sequatchie Valley Loop, enjoy the valley’s undulating, low-traffic roadways and historic agricultural landscape. For the Middle Loop, treat yourself to the historic landmarks and stunning vistas of Walden's Ridge and the South Cumberland Plateau. And on the Lower Loop, you’ll find the small communities of Jasper and Cartwright.

• Destination Highlights: Three distinct loops (Upper, Middle, and Lower) showcasing the "Great Valley" between the Cumberland Plateau and Walden's Ridge.
• Parking Information: Parking available in historic downtown Pikeville (Upper), Harris Park in Dunlap (Middle), or Jasper City Park (Lower).
• Accessibility Options: Low-traffic paved public roads; town centers offer accessible shops and restrooms.
• Scenic Highlights: Dramatic cliffside views of Walden's Ridge, historic agricultural landscapes, and quaint small-town squares.
• Bike Trail Levels: Moderate (The 35-mile Upper Loop features undulating hills and roughly 1,800 ft of elevation).

Experience authentic Smokies food & Southern hospitality at The Farmer's Daughter in Pikeville, where farm-to-table dining delights the senses. Nestled in the scenic countryside, this charming restaurant offers hearty, home-cooked meals made from fresh, local ingredients. Enjoy a warm, welcoming atmosphere that feels like a home away from home. Visit The Farmer's Daughter for a truly memorable culinary experience that celebrates the best of Southern cuisine.

• Destination Highlights: Family-style Southern dining known for farm-to-table ingredients and legendary "Chuckey" chicken.
• Hours: Typically Tuesday–Saturday, 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM (Closed Sunday/Monday).
• Accessibility: Accessible entrance and ground-floor dining area.
• Parking: Large on-site gravel and paved parking lot.

Indulge in the flavors of the Smokies at The Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro in Townsend, where rustic elegance meets culinary excellence. Nestled in the heart of the mountains, this charming bistro offers a farm-to-table dining experience with locally sourced ingredients and inventive Appalachian-inspired dishes. Enjoy a cozy, inviting atmosphere perfect for any occasion.

• Destination Highlights: Award-winning "refined Appalachian" cuisine featuring local ingredients and a cozy, upscale mountain atmosphere.
• Hours: Wednesday–Saturday, 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM (Dinner service; reservations recommended).
• Accessibility: ADA-compliant entrance and accessible restroom facilities.
• Parking: Private on-site parking lot (tends to fill up during peak dinner hours).

Scottie's Restaurant in Pikeville has earned its reputation as a cherished local gem, beloved for its hearty Southern dishes and inviting ambiance. Step inside and feel the warmth of genuine hospitality as you're greeted by friendly faces and the irresistible aroma of home-style cooking. From sizzling skillet breakfasts to savory Southern classics like fried chicken and biscuits, every dish at Scottie's is crafted with care.

• Destination Highlights: A beloved local staple famous for iconic Smokies food such as hearty skillet breakfasts and classic Southern fried chicken.
• Hours: Monday–Friday, 5:00 AM – 2:00 PM; Saturday, 5:00 AM – 11:00 AM (Closed Sunday).
• Accessibility: Step-free entrance from the main street.
• Parking: Convenient street parking available directly in front of the restaurant on Main Street.

Located in downtown Greeneville, the City Garage Car Museum showcases a diverse collection of over 40 vintage vehicles ranging from brass-era classics to a 1981 DeLorean. Alongside the cars, nostalgic displays like a 1950s-style diner and a vintage service station offer a charming trip down memory lane. It’s a must-visit for any automotive enthusiast exploring East Tennessee.

• Destination Highlights: A massive collection of rare and classic cars ranging from a 1914 brass frame to high-performance modern vehicles.
• Hours: Friday and Saturday, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM.
• Accessibility: Fully handicap accessible museum floor.
• Parking: Dedicated parking lot adjacent to the building on South Main Street.

Nestled in charming Maryville, Brackins Blues Club is the soulful heart of downtown. Enjoy the rich sounds of local and nationally acclaimed blues artists. Whether you're a blues enthusiast or new to the genre, Brackins Blues Club promises an evening of toe-tapping rhythms and rich melodies.

• Destination Highlights: The "soul of Maryville" featuring live blues music, a wide selection of craft beer, and pub fare.
• Hours: 12:00 PM – 3:00 AM daily (Kitchen typically closes at 10:00 PM or 12:00 AM).
• Accessibility: Ground-floor venue with indoor and outdoor patio seating.
• Parking: Free parking available behind the building and in nearby municipal lots.

Discover hidden gems at It’s Lola's in Pikeville, a local boutique brimming with Vera Bradley collections, exquisite Fenton and Cast Art pieces, an extensive array of china, stylish used clothing and a variety of unique collectibles. Additionally, they have a large inventory of hard-to-find china for collectors and enthusiasts. Explore this quaint shop and uncover the perfect find.

• Destination Highlights: An eclectic boutique specializing in hard-to-find replacement china, Vera Bradley collections, and unique collectibles.
• Hours: Monday–Friday, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Saturday, 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM.
• Accessibility: Street-level access in the heart of downtown Pikeville.
• Parking: Ample street parking along the historic downtown corridor.