The best road cycling routes in Grainger County

Grainger County offers a diverse road cycling experience, ranging from peaceful rolling countryside, such as in Hogskin Valley, to more challenging climbs along the foothills of Clinch Mountain. You'll find routes with significant elevation changes as well as flatter sections, often near Cherokee Lake.

Yes, Grainger County has routes suitable for beginners. For example, the Roadbike loop from Strawberry Plains is an easy 20 km ride with a modest 127 meters of elevation gain. Another accessible option is the Mayes Lake loop from Morristown, which covers 36 km with 231 meters of ascent.

For those seeking more of a challenge, Grainger County offers moderate routes with greater distances and elevation. Consider the Rolling Hill loop from Strawberry Plains, a 97 km route with over 850 meters of climbing, or the Gobbler Knob loop from Strawberry Plains, which is 54 km long with around 450 meters of elevation gain.

Many of the road cycling routes in Grainger County are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Gobbler Knob loop from Strawberry Plains, the Rolling Hill loop from Strawberry Plains, and the Mayes Lake loop from Morristown.

Grainger County's routes often feature picturesque views of the rolling countryside and glimpses of Cherokee Lake. While specific viewpoints vary by route, the region is known for its scenic landscapes, including the prominent Clinch Mountain ridge. The Veterans Overlook on Clinch Mountain offers panoramic vistas, though access may require a detour from some cycling routes.

The spring and fall seasons generally offer the most pleasant conditions for road cycling in Grainger County, with milder temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer can be warm and humid, while winter may bring colder temperatures and potential for icy conditions, especially in higher elevations.

For families looking for a less strenuous ride, the easier routes like the Roadbike loop from Strawberry Plains (20 km) or the Mayes Lake loop from Morristown (36 km) are good starting points. These routes feature lower elevation gains and manageable distances, making them more suitable for a family outing.

Parking availability varies by trailhead. For routes starting from towns like Strawberry Plains or Morristown, you can often find public parking areas. It's advisable to check the specific route details on komoot for recommended starting points and parking information before your ride.

While specific cafes or pubs directly on every route may be limited, you'll find options for refreshments and meals in the towns and communities that serve as starting or ending points for many routes, such as Strawberry Plains and Morristown. These towns offer local eateries where you can refuel after your ride.

Grainger County offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can enjoy water sports, fishing, or camping at Cherokee Lake. The region also has opportunities for hiking and nature walks at places like Johnson Ridge Trail or the Wilderness Woods at Narrow Ridge Earth Literacy Center. Grainger County Park in Rutledge also provides paths for walking and running.

Komoot currently features 5 distinct road cycling routes in Grainger County, offering a range of distances and difficulties to explore the region's diverse landscapes.