Just outside of Maryville, Tn near Gatlinburg there is a picturesque place for cyclists to sight see, relax, ride a road bicycle, and to get a very serious workout while doing so. 🏔 Scenery, solitude, and a breath of fresh air can be found within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park🌳 and the famous Foothills Parkway!
I started riding the foothills parkway about four years ago. Maybe it was five years ago 🤔 It’s possible to lose count especially when having so much fun and touring in the Smokies on a road bicycle.
I have experienced great results every time that I go, and as a result I want to go back at least once a year.
I start just outside the parkway in Walland, Tn a small community located near Maryville, and about 6 miles away from Townsend, It’s here where I usually park near the fire station on river road then ride about a half mile to the start of my destination 🌳 the parkway
There’s not as much traffic here like I have seen at other stops located within in the smokies park. Not much litter, smoggy smoke, or honking horns. No drag strip or go carts to be had here at the foothills parkway.
I have gone through long stretches of highway at the foothills without seeing or hearing anyone. I have often wondered is anyone here or have they shut the place down? What if I needed help who would be available to stop 🛑 and help me back to civilization. Who could assist me with food or water 💧 maybe a possible snack.
I love being outdoors and seeing nature at its best. There are plentiful plants at the foothills parkway, and I enjoy taking photos of plants every time that I go.
There are numerous pull overs for a chance to break from hill climbing, and fast downhill riding. All I have to do is exit find a nice spot and have lunch.
After riding the foothills parkway from Walland to Wears valley and back I get really hungry seeing that I cycled 31 miles with a elevation climb of 3,812 feet!
If you like getting away from the busy highway and traffic jams. Try the foothills parkway in the GSMNP🌳
Memorial Fitness 