Tennessee state parks will be open Friday, November 29, (and every other day) with recreational opportunities a’plenty. Check this link to find a state park nearby as an alternative to the Smokies. Guaranteed less traffic.
Day-after-Thanksgiving hikes: I count 56 events, mostly ranger-led hikes, at Tennessee State Parks on Friday, Nov. 29. Find them here. Closest to Knoxville: Big Ridge, Cove Lake, Fort Loudoun, Norris Dam, Panther Creek and Seven Island State Birding Park.
Gifts for everyone. Check out the online shopping that supports Tennessee State Parks. Here.
Best Bets from Elle Colquitt’s Outdoor Knoxville Calendar
Monday, Nov. 25 – AMBC monthly meeting: 7 p.m. Southside Garage. Free. Info: Appalachian Mountain Bike Club. We’ll discuss trail conditions, trail building progress, fundraising, local races and events, partner efforts in outdoor recreation and so much more. Everyone welcome! Details online.
Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, Nov. 28:
Hot to Trot 5k/10k/Fun Run: 7:30 a.m., Fleet Feet at Turkey Creek. Free. Info: Fleet Feet Sports at 865-675-3338. The 5K course starts on Parkside Drive and runs through Turkey Creek area then loops back. The 10K course is a 2-loop course. Fun Run is out and back on Parkside Drive for a total of one mile. Register online.
Turkey Trot 5K + Little Gobbler Kids Run: 8:45 a.m., the Mill & Mine. Info: Knoxville Track Club. We’ll be running the same downtown Knoxville course that our participants love and come back year after year (taking into account the current bridge closure). The Little Gobbler 1 mile Run starts at 8. Register online.
The full calendar, sponsored by Legacy Parks Foundation, is here.
