Ijams Nature Center

Ijams is a 315-acre urban greenspace featuring more than 12 miles of natural surface trails plus a stretch of the Will Skelton Greenway

All of the trails are hiker friendly, and thanks to a partnership with the Appalachian Mountain Bike Club, 9+ miles in the Mead’s Quarry and Ross Marble Natural Area of the nature center are also designed for mountain bikers.


Ijams Nature Center is the crown jewel in Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness, which features 1,000 forested acres along downtown’s south waterfront. The Urban Wilderness is an exceptional historic and recreational corridor, inviting all who visit to experience the special character-defining assets of Knoxville. With more than 40 miles of mixed use trails, 10 parks, four Civil War sites, incredible views and unparalleled natural features, this unique area draws people from around the corner and around the world. Visit the links below for detailed section maps of the Urban Wilderness.

Ijams is Dog Friendly! Due to state and federal regulations that allow Ijams to care for exhibit hall creatures, pets are not allowed in the Visitor Center.