May 21, 2026

The Best Dog-Friendly Walking Trails in Knoxville, TN

If you are looking to get outdoors with your furry best friend, Knoxville, Tennessee, offers a fantastic variety of scenic and dog-friendly walking trails. Whether you are looking for a fully paved greenway path, a deep forest hike, or a spot with great river views, there is a trail here for every type of hound and hiker — all set against the backdrop of the Great Smoky Mountains.

5 Dog-Friendly Walking Trails in Knoxville, TN

Check out our top five picks for some of the best dog-friendly walking trails in and around Knoxville, TN:

1. Third Creek Greenway

For a smooth and shaded stroll, Third Creek Greenway is hard to beat. This fully paved path winds through West Knoxville along Third Creek, passing through 39 acres of natural preserve with mature shade trees and a babbling creek alongside you the whole way. The greenway connects to Bearden Village Greenway, Sequoyah Greenway, and Neyland Greenway, meaning you can string together a longer adventure if you and your pup are feeling ambitious. 

Reviewers love it for its accessibility and peaceful atmosphere just minutes from the bustle of Kingston Pike. Leashed dogs are welcome throughout, and there are multiple parking access points to make the outing as short or as long as you like.

2. Ijams Nature Center

If your dog prefers a true nature experience, Ijams Nature Center is a must-visit. Located just minutes from downtown Knoxville at 2915 Island Home Ave, this urban oasis features over 318 acres of protected wildlife habitat and 14+ miles of trails ranging from easy paved boardwalks to forested hill climbs.

The River Trail Loop is the perfect intro trail, as it’s a 1.4-mile round trip along the Tennessee River that is ideal for senior dogs, puppies, or hot summer days. More adventurous pups can explore limestone formations and scenic overlooks on trails like the Ross Marble Natural Area loop. Dogs must remain on a leash at all times, and the parking area off Island Home Avenue makes for easy access.

3. Sequoyah Hills Park & Greenway

Sequoyah Hills Park is a sprawling 87-acre riverside park perfect for long walks, fetch, and great river views. The park sits along Cherokee Boulevard in one of Knoxville’s most beautiful neighborhoods and connects directly to the Third Creek Greenway, so you can easily extend your walk.

There are wide-open meadows, a natural trail that winds along the Tennessee River, and even spots where your water-loving dog can wade in. The park is popular with dog walkers, joggers, and families — busy enough to feel lively, but big enough that there is always room to roam. Leashed dogs are welcome throughout.

4. House Mountain State Natural Area

For an adventurous outing with a big payoff, House Mountain State Natural Area delivers. Located about 15 miles from downtown Knoxville near Corryton, this 527-acre natural area is home to Knox County’s highest point — a 2,100-foot summit with sweeping views of the Tennessee Valley, the Smoky Mountains to the southeast, and the Cumberlands to the northwest.

The main loop is approximately 3.8 miles and is considered challenging, with steep grades, rocky terrain, and a trail that gains significant elevation. This hike is best suited for athletic, well-conditioned dogs — it is not ideal for senior dogs or small breeds. The payoff at the top is absolutely worth the climb. Dogs must remain on a leash, and the trail is open from dawn to dusk year-round.

5. Just Outside of Knoxville

If you are willing to venture slightly outside of the city limits, there are a few other highly rated spots you and your dog will love:

  • Seven Islands State Birding Park (Kodak, TN): A gem along the French Broad River, this 416-acre park is home to 220 species of birds and offers well-maintained trails ranging from 1.6 to 3.4 miles. The Green Trail is especially popular with dog owners, meandering through fields and wetland areas. Dogs are welcome on a leash.
  • Knoxville IJAMS Nature Center & Quarry (South Knoxville): A network of trails perfect for an invigorating hike right within the city. Meads Quarry offers stunning views and a moderate trail through a unique former quarry landscape — it is a one-of-a-kind adventure for you and your pup.
  • Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Just about an hour from Knoxville, the Smokies offer limited but scenic pet-friendly trails. Pets are allowed on paved roads, campgrounds, and picnic areas, and on a handful of specific trails including the Gatlinburg Trail and Oconaluftee River Trail. Dogs must be on a leash no longer than six feet at all times.

A quick reminder before you head out: All of these trails require your dog to be leashed and under control at all times. Grab your leash, pack some water and waste bags, and enjoy exploring Knoxville’s beautiful outdoors with your best friend!

Need Same-Day Vet Care in Knoxville?

Knoxville’s outdoor trails are wonderful, but accidents happen. If your dog needs quick care for a non-emergency situation after a hike, Truss Vet Knoxville is the answer — a walk-in, same-day clinic designed to handle what your regular vet can’t always fit in and what a full ER is overkill for.

Learn more about Truss Vet Knoxville while you wait for our clinic to open in Fall 2026.