Sharp's Ridge Memorial Park: Knoxville's Elevated MTB Experience

Quick Facts

• Distance: 8 miles (Proposed)
• Level: Difficult
• Route Type: Network
• City: Knoxville
• State: Tennessee

A Heavenly View Meets Thrilling Trails

Sharp's Ridge Memorial Park, perched just 10 minutes away from downtown Knoxville, offers not just an awe-inspiring view of the skyline and distant mountains, but a complex network of multi-use trails. With a current 4.7 miles of winding tracks across the wooded hills, this park is evolving. Thanks to the Appalachian Mountain Bike Club, a projected 8-mile singletrack trail system is under construction.

Trail Options and Characteristics

• Neighborhood Trail: A 1.9-mile wide, flowing trail accessed from Hanover/Ridge Road. Beginner-friendly.
• Fire Break Trail: Offers 1.3 miles of not-so-technical trail but with 4-5 steep climbs. Accessible from both upper parking or lower picnic areas.
• Sharp Shin Trail: A 1.5-mile, narrow singletrack, rated intermediate for its technical aspects. Grants stunning vistas and accessible from multiple entry points.
• Knight Fall Trail - Gravity Jump: An expert-only black diamond 0.6-mile trail. Designed for mountain bikes, it's a downhill thrill with berms, rollers, table tops, and signature g-out sections.

Each trail here seems to present its unique set of challenges and scenic spots, effectively catering to riders of varying skills.

Join the Community

The Appalachian Mountain Bike Club often hosts workdays and encourages cyclists to participate. For those inclined towards ornithology, the Knoxville Chapter of the Tennessee Ornithological Society's bird walks could be a delightful addition to the trip.

Accessibility and Drainage

Accessibility is well-thought-out. Trails can be accessed either from the neighborhood on Hanover/Ridge Road, the bottom trailhead across the picnic area, or the upper parking area near the cell tower. The drainage system is commendable, making Sharp Ridge a go-to destination even when other trails in Knoxville are waterlogged.

Getting There

Take I-640, exit 6, head south on 441 to Ludlow, and then west into Memorial Park.

What Riders Are Saying

• "Great trail system, wish I'd visited sooner!"
• "Varying jumps from steep gaps to smooth tables."
• "Insane jump line. Steep and fast."

Feedback reveals this park to be a hidden gem, with tailored experiences for riders across different skill levels. Remarkably, the park never seems too crowded, lending an intimate, 'just-for-you' biking experience.

The Verdict

For those seeking to combine a love for vistas and mountain biking, Sharp’s Ridge Memorial Park in Knoxville, Tennessee offers a comprehensive package. It's a place where scenic serenity meets adrenaline, making it a must-visit for mountain biking enthusiasts in the area. Whether you're a beginner or an expert, this trail network promises a fulfilling ride.