Introvert’s Guide to Knoxville: Outdoorsy Edition

Written By

Gigi Logan

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It's Time for Some Solo Sunshine

First things first: Unlike Ariel in Disney’s “The Little Mermaid,” introverts want to be where the people AREN’T. Can I get a calm & collected, “Amen,” fellow introverts?? 😂 We gain energy from solitude and quiet rather than being around people. In this bustling Scruffy City, it may feel difficult to get a moment to yourself, but trust me when I say – I’ve perfected the system. With that in mind, as a certified introvert, I wanted to share some ideas for outdoorsy activities around Knoxville that won’t require recharging your social battery for three to five days. (C’mon, no one has time for that 😅) Here’s the introvert’s guide to being outside in Knoxville this summer!

1.) TAKE A HIKE

Our first suggestion is packing a lunch and taking yourself for a hike and picnic at South Knoxville’s Ijams Nature Center. Parking is $5, but from there you can just check out their Visitor’s Center for a trail map before hitting the trail. There are plenty of good paths, but definitely check out the river boardwalk for an up-close view of the Tennessee River. Trails range in length & difficulty so there’s truly something for everyone. We also *highly* suggest checking out the sunflower fields at Forks of the River in July.

2.) AQUATIC ADVENTURES

If you prefer a more aquatic experience, we suggest an outing at Mead’s Quarry for kayaking or (free) swimming. As a part of Ijams Nature Center, Mead’s Quarry is a great way to spend an afternoon in the water. For paddling, check out River Sports Outfitters at the entrance of the quarry to rent a kayak and get… outfitted 😉 They also have a location on Sutherland Ave and at the Cove on Northshore Dr. in West Knoxville. (PRO-TIP: If paddling isn’t your thing, RSO also has bike rentals available. Peddle away from those crowds, babyyy!)

FREE Craft Coffee Tasting at Five & Hoek EVERY First Friday from 1-2 PM!

Taste coffees from around the world with Five & Hoek owner, Tyler, every first Friday of the month from 1-2 pm. Learn what you like about certain coffees, how coffees are selected & how quality is maintained from roast to roast & cup to cup.

3.) GREEN THUMBS UP

Maybe you’d rather spend an afternoon in the garden! If growing veggies is your thing, visit Knox County Community Gardens & Growers Alliance to learn about community gardens that benefit local food banks. If you prefer more floral pursuits, take a walk around Knoxville Botanical Garden and Arboretum. We’re talkin’ 44 acres of walking trails, flowers, and trees just five minutes from downtown. If you’d prefer to spend time in your garden, we suggest visiting a local nursery such as Stanley’s, Pope’s, Kirby’s, or Ellenburg for plants and supplies before digging in 😉

4.) A Gentle Venture Out

Lucky for us outdoorsy introverts, Knoxville has pleeenty of public parks available. Grab a book and some snacks, take out your hammock or folding chair, and start exploring the local park of your choosing. (We have a few of our faves listed here!) If you are an introvert but your dog certainly isn’t, many of Knoxville’s local parks also have adjoining dog parks – ie. your dog can play with others while you throw on some headphones & introvert to your heart’s content. Check out Victor Ashe Park’s dog park to get the pup-party started 🙌

Those are some of my favorite ways to get outside & rejuvenate alone, but there are definitely more where these came from! What are your favorite solo outdoors activities?

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