About Forks of the River Wildlife Management Area
Forks of the River Wildlife Management Area near Knoxville offers a mix of wide paved paths, gravel sections, and narrower rugged trails suitable for walking, running, and biking. Reviewers consistently praise the river views, wildlife, and the every-other-year sunflower fields, and note that parking at this lot is free. It is a well maintained, generally quiet area where leashed dogs are welcome, though there are no bathrooms on site, a few sections can be overgrown, and some mountain bike terrain is challenging.
At a Glance
Trail Score
out of 10
Why Riders Choose Forks of the River Wildlife Management Area
The top themes reviewers mention most.
- scenic river views5 mentions
- sunflower fields (every other year)7 mentions
- good for both walking and biking6 mentions
- well maintained and well groomed trails2 mentions
- free parking2 mentions
Trail Conditions
⚠️ Surface condition: Mixed, mostly good with some overgrown sections
⛰️ Perceived difficulty: Flat easy (riders disagree)
Crowds & Best Times to Go
Who Uses This Trail
Scenery & Views
Highlights: river views, sunflower fields, wildlife such as hawks, eagles, and deer, sunflower field and silo loop
Safety & Upkeep
🛡️ No specific time-of-day concerns noted.
Parking & Amenities
Dogs on the Trail
Trail Etiquette & Community
Who It's Best For
Great for
Less ideal for
What Could Be Better
- some overgrown trail sections1
- no restrooms on site1
- outdated mapping / easy to get lost1
- bugs, bug spray recommended1
What Riders Say
"Nice trails from wide and paved to narrow and rugged. Great for walking or bicycles."
"No bathrooms, but there are public restrooms down the road at ijams."
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers based on what riders say in their reviews.
Is the trail paved?
Reviews describe a mix: wide paved paths plus gravel sections and some narrower, rugged stretches.
Is parking free?
Yes, parking at the Forks of the River lot is free, while the nearby IJAMS lots charge a fee.
Are dogs allowed on the trail?
Dogs are welcome but reviewers state they must be kept on a leash.
Are there restrooms?
No, there are no bathrooms on site; the nearest public restrooms are down the road at Ijams.
Is the trail good for kids and beginners?
The paved main trail is described as relatively flat and good for family walks, walking, and biking, though some mountain bike sections are challenging.
When can I see the sunflower fields?
Sunflowers are planted every other year and are typically in bloom in early July.
Access Hours
| Monday | 7 AM–8 PM |
| Tuesday | 7 AM–8 PM |
| Wednesday | 7 AM–8 PM |
| Thursday | 7 AM–8 PM |
| Friday | 7 AM–8 PM |
| Saturday | 7 AM–8 PM |
| Sunday | 7 AM–8 PM |
Ride Forks of the River Wildlife Management Area
Plan your visit or open the trail on the map.