Nestled along the shores of South Holston Lake and the South Holston Dam Reservation, the South Holston TVA Trail System is one of the newest additions to Northeast Tennessee's growing mountain bike scene.
Developed by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) and opened in phases beginning in 2020, the trails were designed to complement the area's world-class fishing, boating, hiking, and paddling opportunities while creating an approachable mountain biking experience for riders of all ages. Over three years, TVA invested in the project while partnering with local organizations, including the King University Cycling Team, to help care for and maintain the trail system.
Unlike the rugged backcountry riding found elsewhere in the region, South Holston is all about building confidence. Nearly six miles of bike-optimized singletrack weave through mature hardwood forests, featuring smooth tread, sweeping berms, playful rollers, and optional features that allow riders to progress at their own pace. Whether you're clipping into your first mountain bike or introducing the next generation to the sport, it's a place where every lap builds skills and every smile leads to another ride.
The trail names also tell a story. Routes like Yelling Trail and Pemberton Trail honor the area's Revolutionary War history, connecting riders not only to the landscape but to the people and events that shaped Northeast Tennessee more than two centuries ago.
Beyond the trails, the location itself is part of the experience. Riders are just steps away from the scenic South Holston Dam, one of TVA's landmark hydroelectric projects completed in 1950, with breathtaking views of South Holston Lake and easy access to picnic areas, fishing, kayaking, and walking paths. It's the kind of place where a mountain bike ride can easily become a full day spent enjoying one of the region's most beautiful outdoor destinations.
If you're looking for steep, technical descents, you'll find them elsewhere in the Tri-Cities. But if you're searching for a welcoming trail system where confidence grows with every corner and the scenery is just as memorable as the riding, South Holston delivers one of the best beginner-friendly mountain bike experiences in the Southeast.
