Thursday, April 23, 2026
Tennessee’s tourism landscape is gearing up for a new wave of cycling‑oriented travel in 2026 with the addition of 37 new gravel routes to the Bike Tennessee program, inviting visitors to explore the state’s scenic backroads, farmlands, rolling hills and river valleys from Memphis, Chattanooga, Nashville and Mountain City to rural counties in between. The Tennessee Department of Tourist Development has expanded this initiative to build on an existing network of 52 road cycling routes, creating a total of 89 mapped trails spanning more than 1,800 miles of diverse terrain across 50 counties. The expanded system is intended to offer cyclists and outdoor travellers a broader array of sights and experiences on two wheels.
Cycling tourism continues to be a growing segment of outdoor exploration, and Tennessee’s update to Bike Tennessee makes it easier for both domestic visitors and regional travellers to plan multi‑day trips that weave together cultural stops, natural scenery, historic sites and small‑town hospitality. The expanded gravel routes are accessible through the Ride with GPS app, providing detailed navigation, elevation profiles, key waypoints and route insights to riders of varying skill levels.
The 37 newly curated gravel routes are strategically designed to showcase a wide range of landscapes that can appeal to long‑distance cyclists and day riders alike. From urban fringes to remote backroads, these routes include scenic mountain climbs, farmland connectors that highlight agricultural Tennessee, gentle river valley paths and tree‑lined roads that reveal tranquil hidden corners of the state. Many of these trails intersect with or run alongside well‑known natural attractions such as the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the Cherokee National Forest, giving visitors added reasons to explore beyond major urban centres.
For cyclists starting in Chattanooga, routes like the Ocoee River Gravel Loop at Kings Slough provide nearly 30 kilometres of gravel riding through scenic terrain not typically seen from major highways, inviting travellers to experience the state’s landscapes up close. Meanwhile, in Memphis, riders can link gravel paths with cultural points of interest and riverfront views, merging outdoor activity with local sightseeing. Routes stretching to Nashville and beyond offer access to historic towns, local eateries, wineries and pockets of rural heritage that enrich travel itineraries.
Mountain City, positioned in the northeastern edge of Tennessee near the Appalachian range, anchors a series of rugged gravel paths that connect rolling hills, forested expanses and high‑elevation vistas. These routes provide a contrast in terrain and scenery, encouraging travellers to plan trips that traverse different ecological zones and cultural zones within the state.
The Bike Tennessee expansion emphasizes flexibility and customization for travellers. Cyclists can choose routes suited to their experience and interests, whether they prefer leisurely scenic rides that pass vineyards and waterfalls or more challenging terrain that requires endurance and skill. Integration with Ride with GPS makes it easier for visitors to download routes, track their progress and discover local waypoints including rest stops, eateries, lodging options and points of interest along the way.
Given the state’s geographic diversity, visitors planning trips can incorporate major tourist draws into cycling‑focused itineraries. For example, a travel plan might start with urban cultural exploration in Nashville — known for its music heritage and culinary scene — before connecting to gravel routes that lead through river valleys and farmland towards Memphis culture at the Mississippi River. Outdoor enthusiasts might also combine gravel cycling with hikes in the Great Smoky Mountains or visits to lakes and waterfalls near the backroads, creating multi‑modal adventure trips.
The Bike Tennessee program is designed not only to attract cyclists but also to support rural tourism economies throughout the state. With routes crossing over 50 counties, many of which are known for their small towns and local businesses, travellers can engage with local artisans, farm‑to‑table eateries, breweries and cultural landmarks along the way. This expanded connectivity helps spread tourism benefits beyond traditional destination hubs, encouraging visitors to spend time and money in communities that showcase authentic Tennessee culture.
Local tourism development officials note that outdoor recreation, including cycling, contributes significantly to the state’s economy — part of a broader outdoor economy that generated $15.6 billion in 2024 and ranks as one of the most lucrative in the Southeast. By adding gravel routes, Tennessee aims to attract more visitors interested in active travel experiences that blend physical challenge with natural exploration and cultural engagement.
Travellers to Tennessee in 2026 can integrate gravel cycling with other activities based on seasonal timing and personal interests. Spring and fall offer particularly appealing conditions for long rides and extended touring, while summer can be ideal for combining cycling with river recreation, camping and visits to state parks. Families, solo travellers and group riders each can tailor their schedules to include cycling segments, local festivals, food trails and historic site visits.
Lodging options across Tennessee reflect the diversity of travel styles. Visitors might anchor their trips in cities like Chattanooga or Nashville with day rides into surrounding gravel roads, or choose rural bed‑and‑breakfasts, cabins and campgrounds closer to key segments of the new routes for immersive outdoor stays. Coordination with local tourism offices and travel platforms helps visitors identify ideal base locations for their cycling itineraries.
To ensure riders can navigate Tennessee’s sprawling network, Bike Tennessee works in partnership with Ride with GPS to provide mapping and route data that travellers can access digitally. This includes navigation cues, elevation changes, surface conditions and recommended waypoints for food, rest and resupply. Customization features help cyclists adapt routes based on weather, fitness level and travel priorities.
As Tennessee’s cycling infrastructure evolves, the expanded Bike Tennessee program positions the state as a compelling destination for adventure‑oriented tourism that pairs scenic exploration with cultural discovery. Whether travellers seek a weekend getaway or a longer regional tour, the addition of 37 new gravel routes creates opportunities to explore Tennessee’s backroads, landmarks and small‑town character from a fresh perspective.
Tags: Bike Tennessee expansion, Chattanooga, Cherokee National Forest, gravel bike trails TN, Great Smoky Mountains, memphis, Mountain City, nashville, outdoor sightseeing Tennessee, Ride with GPS Tennessee, tennessee, Tennessee cycling tourism, Tennessee gravel routes 2026, traveling Tennessee backroads
