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Townsend Historical Trail
Updated: August 2024
The Townsend Historical Trail runs along both sides of US 321 (Lamar Alexander Parkway) through Townsend, TN. Called "The Peaceful Side of the Smokies," this is our favorite place to stay in the area - a gateway to Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Cades Cove. The 9-mile paved trail is a pleasant way to get around Townsend. Linking to the Visitor Center, hotels, restaurants, shops, art galleries and historical sites, we saw many people biking and walking. (Detailed map and photos below.)
Location: Townsend, TN (See map)
Distance: 9 miles
Surface: Paved
Nearby Places of Interest: Great Smoky Mountains
National Park (Cades Cove), Little River Railroad & Lumber Company Museum, Townsend
Riverwalk and Arboretum, Smoky Mountains Heritage Center,
Tuckaleechee Caverns
Bike Shops/Rentals:
Smoky
Mountain Outdoor Center
(Townsend; rentals)
Scotty Bike (Townsend; E-bike
rentals)
Vee Hollow
Bike Rentals (Townsend; rentals)
Cycology
Bicycles (Maryville; sales, service)
Page Summary:
The Townsend Historical Trail is paved and easy to ride, with some hills, and views of the surrounding mountains. Two underpasses connect the north and south paths, there are no crosswalks between the two sides. Markers along the trail and a "Shadows of the Past" brochure at the Visitor Center describe the history.
The Little River Railroad & Lumber Company, founded in 1901 and operating for 38 years, became one of the largest commercial logging operations in southern Appalachia. It was key to the formation of Townsend (named after the company's founder) and subsequent growth of tourism and resorts along the Little River.
The Museum is a non-profit organization founded in 1982 to preserve the history of the Little River Railroad & Lumber Company, and of life on the Little River. Free admission. More Information.
Townsend Riverwalk is a nature trail extending for 3/10 mile between the Little River and Townsend Historical Trail, along the roadbed of Old Highway 73. Maintained by local garden clubs and volunteers, it's recognized as a Tennessee Certified Arboretum. Additions over the years include azalea and pollinator gardens, river view deck, and a Children's Discovery Garden. Easy walk, shaded with scenic river views. No bikes. More information.
“The Greatest Site Under the Smokies”
the Tuckaleechee Caverns are the highest rated cave or cavern system east of the Mississippi River. Originally used by the Cherokee, they were rediscovered by sawmill workers and eventually opened for tours in 1953, 1.25 miles round-trip. Maintaining a 58-degree temperature year-round, it's also a great escape on hot days.
Townsend is a gateway to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and Cades Cove is a must-visit. This is a popular drive, but the 11-mile loop road is closed to vehicles on Wednesdays - a wonderful bike ride, scenic and historic. Wildlife viewing includes bear and elk - keep your distance! See our report here.
Nearby Biking:
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
- Cades Cove
Bike-Tennessee
- More information about biking in Tennessee
Related Resources:
Explore Townsend - Cycling in Townsend
Townsend Visitor Center
Smoky Mountains Visitor Center at Townsend
Support and Advocacy:
Townsend/Cades Cove Gateway Alliance
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