Urban Wilderness Gateway Park

Your Doorway to Knoxville's Natural Playground

Found in Knoxville, Tennessee, Urban Wilderness Gateway Park is an excellent jumping-off point to explore something pretty special - Knoxville's Urban Wilderness system, a sprawling 1,000+ acres of forest that unfolds just south of the Tennessee River.

The Gateway Park itself has a cool transformation story. Between 2020 and 2024, what was once just another four-lane highway evolved into a 2.2-mile, 113-acre linear park that now beautifully connects downtown Knoxville with miles of wilderness trails. It's like the city decided nature deserved the right of way for once.

What You'll Find There

The park combines natural beauty with practical amenities that make outdoor adventures more accessible. The Baker Creek Pavilion, which opened in March 2024, offers shade, restrooms, and a good spot to plan your journey into the multi-use trails and bike park within Baker Creek Preserve.

There's a modest playground that keeps the little ones entertained, and plenty of open, grassy areas where you can spread out a blanket, read a book, or simply watch the clouds drift by.

Trails & Activities for Everyone

Cycling enthusiasts, you're in for a treat. The park features bike skills courses that cater to literally everyone - from wobbly toddlers just finding their balance to experienced riders looking for a technical challenge.

If hiking is more your style, the Gateway Park connects you to an impressive web of trails. The Red Bud Crest trail is a popular starting point, linking to other natural areas like Marie Myers Park, William Hastie Natural Area, and the South Loop. Feeling ambitious? Some routes stretch up to 12 miles for those wanting a proper day-long adventure.

Take a Break

Throughout your explorations, you'll find picnic areas strategically placed along the way - perfect spots to refuel and rest before continuing your outdoor adventure. These practical amenities make the park well-suited for family visits.

Far From Just a Park

Urban Wilderness Gateway Park is actually part of something bigger - an interconnected network linking city parks, historic sites, and natural areas, all within easy reach of downtown Knoxville.

This green space was developed through collaboration between the City of Knoxville, Legacy Parks Foundation, and the Appalachian Mountain Bike Club.

Bring Your Four-Legged Friends

And yes, your dogs are welcome here. So feel free to bring your furry hiking companion along as you explore the wilderness trails - they'll probably enjoy it even more than you do.