Ijams Nature Center Knoxville
A 318-acre urban oasis in Knoxville, TN, offering 14+ miles of trails, river views, a quarry swimming hole, and treetop adventures.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Ijams Nature Center Knoxville
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 318-acre urban oasis in Knoxville, TN, offering 14+ miles of trails, river views, a quarry swimming hole, and treetop adventures.
"A beautiful gem hidden away on the outskirts of Knoxville! It’s an awesome place to get out and explore with the family."
🗺️ Grab a Trail Map
Consider buying a map for $1 or snapping a pic to navigate the 14+ miles of trails.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Many trails are natural surface with hills; good footwear is essential for a comfortable hike.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Boardwalk Trail
Along the Tennessee River
An easy, one-mile loop offering serene river views and a peaceful escape. Family and pet-friendly!
Meads Quarry
Southern end of the park
A historic quarry now serving as a popular, scenic swimming hole. A refreshing spot for a dip!
Treetop Adventures
Adventure Park area
Experience the thrill of ziplining and rope climbs amidst the forest canopy. An exhilarating outdoor activity!
Visitor Center Exhibits
Main Visitor Center
Discover local wildlife and learn about the center's history through engaging exhibits. Educational and fun!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Parking and Access
Trail Navigation
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🗺️ Grab a Trail Map
Consider buying a map for $1 or snapping a pic to navigate the 14+ miles of trails.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Many trails are natural surface with hills; good footwear is essential for a comfortable hike.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially during warmer months, bring plenty of water for your hikes.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Trails
Leashed dogs are welcome on most trails, making it a great spot for furry friends!
Tips
from all over the internet
🗺️ Grab a Trail Map
Consider buying a map for $1 or snapping a pic to navigate the 14+ miles of trails.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Many trails are natural surface with hills; good footwear is essential for a comfortable hike.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially during warmer months, bring plenty of water for your hikes.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Trails
Leashed dogs are welcome on most trails, making it a great spot for furry friends!
📱 Use AllTrails App
Helpful for navigating trails where signage might be less clear.
📅 Check Event Calendar
Ijams hosts various programs, classes, and even theatrical performances.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Ijams Nature Center for its beauty, maintenance, and diverse offerings, from hiking trails to Meads Quarry. Many highlight the friendly and helpful staff, making it a favorite spot for locals and newcomers alike. While parking fees are now in place, most find them reasonable for the upkeep and improvements. +1
"What a beautiful clean , well maintained Nature Center! There is something for all ages and walking levels . Also, there is Meads Quarry , a great swimming hole !
The Center offers many day events and classes. Check the monthly calendar on their website.
The staff/employees are fantastic! Very kind and helpful.
We just moved to TN and this is our favorite place!"
Dee S
"A beautiful gem hidden away on the outskirts of knoxville! It’s an awesome place to get out to and explore with the family. Places for biking, hiking, walking, swimming etc. they have frog ponds, hiking trails, animal exhibits and much more. There is even a place to let the family walk along the rope climbs and use the zipline"
Jonathan Ellis
"Pay for parking via QR code where signs are everywhere - price is reasonable. We did the river loop trail using our All Trails map as the signage is not the best. Conditions excellent, great shade and enjoyed the two sections of boardwalk."
N and C Farrell
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Ijams Nature Center is located at 2915 Island Home Ave, Knoxville, TN 37920. It's easily accessible by car and is about 15 minutes from downtown Knoxville. Many visitors find it a convenient escape without traveling far.
Yes, Ijams Nature Center is a well-known destination in Knoxville. Follow signs for Island Home Avenue, and you'll find the entrance.
Absolutely! Biking to Ijams is a great free option. Some Redditors suggest biking via Will Skelton, though be prepared for some hills.
From downtown Knoxville, head south on Alcoa Highway (US-129 S), take the exit for Island Home Avenue, and follow the signs to Ijams Nature Center.
While specific public transport routes can vary, it's generally recommended to drive or bike to Ijams Nature Center for the most convenient access.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ijams Nature Center is a nonprofit organization, and while entry to the grounds is generally free, there is now a parking fee.
Parking typically costs around $5 and can be paid via QR code at designated signs throughout the center. +1
Yes, you can avoid parking fees by biking or walking into the center.
No, the trails at Ijams Nature Center are free to access. The parking fee is the primary charge.
Ijams Nature Center is generally open daily from dawn to dusk for outdoor access. The Visitor Center has specific operating hours, which can be found on their official website.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Popular trails include the River Trail for scenic river views, the Boardwalk Trail for an easy stroll, and trails leading to Meads Quarry. Many visitors enjoy the variety of natural-surface trails. +1
Yes, Meads Quarry, located within Ijams, is a popular spot for swimming. It's often referred to as a 'great swimming hole.'
Ijams offers a 'play cabin' and a 'magical garden' that toddlers enjoy. They also have educational programs and exhibits suitable for families. +1
Yes, Ijams Nature Center is very dog-friendly, allowing leashed dogs on most of its trails.
You might spot Great Blue Herons, especially near water. The center's diverse habitats support various birds and other wildlife.
Yes, Ijams Nature Center features treetop adventures, including ziplining and rope climbs, for those seeking a bit more thrill.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Ijams Nature Center itself does not have a restaurant. However, there are picnic areas available if you wish to bring your own food.
Yes, picnic areas are available, making it a great spot to enjoy a meal surrounded by nature.
Since Ijams is close to downtown Knoxville, you'll find numerous dining options in the city center after your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
The boardwalk along the Tennessee River offers beautiful scenic shots. Meads Quarry also provides unique photographic opportunities with its water and rock formations. 
Absolutely! With its diverse habitats, wildlife (like Great Blue Herons), and scenic trails, Ijams is a fantastic location for nature photographers.
Information regarding drone usage is not widely available. It's best to check with Ijams Nature Center directly or adhere to park regulations regarding aerial photography.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and golden hues.
Look out for the Great Blue Heron, which is featured on the Ijams logo and can sometimes be spotted in the park.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
With over 14 miles of trails, including the easy Boardwalk Trail, there are options suitable for all walking abilities.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers
+1 The natural surface trails provide a good workout, and the diverse scenery ensures an engaging experience. Remember to download an offline map or use a navigation app, as trail signage can be inconsistent.
🐶 Dog Owners
Be sure to bring water for both yourself and your pet, especially during warmer months.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Ijams' Diverse Trails
For a more accessible experience, the Boardwalk Trail provides stunning river views without the uneven terrain. For those seeking a bit more challenge, trails leading to Meads Quarry involve some inclines and offer unique geological scenery.
Beyond hiking, Ijams also offers opportunities for biking and canoeing/kayaking (rental information may vary). The variety ensures that whether you're looking for a gentle walk or a more vigorous outdoor adventure, Ijams has a trail for you.
The History and Evolution of Ijams
Today, Ijams operates as a 318-acre nonprofit organization, focused on inspiring people to connect with and care for the Earth.
It achieves this through a range of engaging educational programs and diverse outdoor experiences. The center's mission is to foster a deeper appreciation for the natural world, making it a valuable resource for the Knoxville community and visitors alike.The landscape itself tells a story, from its wooded areas and meadows to its creeks and the historic Meads Quarry.
This blend of natural beauty and historical significance makes Ijams a unique destination, offering a glimpse into both the region's ecological heritage and its past industrial use. Adventure and Recreation at Ijams
For water enthusiasts, Meads Quarry provides a popular spot for swimming, often described as a scenic 'swimming hole.'
Beyond these specific activities, the extensive trail system supports hiking and biking, making Ijams a versatile destination for active individuals and families.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit