Biking the Maryville-Alcoa Greenway in East Tennessee

It's a tale of two cities - two historic, eastern Tennessee communities with boundaries that literally touch. Maryville and Alcoa have partnered to give us a great greenway that is eclectic and beautiful, with a surprise around every corner. The Maryville-Alcoa Greenway features a restored railroad trestle high above Pistol Creek, public art, access to parks, tunnels, a duck pond, an iconic pedestrian bridge, and more. Now if we can just get some adequate signage and trailside maps, please... but I digress!
I'm Scott. I explore, review and rate bike trails on this channel...and hopefully find a little joy in the journey. Thanks for watching!
#JoyfulTrails

[@jasonroberts6233]

I grew up in Maryville, and we used to walk the greenbelt and fish in pistol creek as a kid. This made me homesick.

[@climb4]

Nice job on explaining what is available to ride in East Tennessee. One item to mention, the Maryville/Alcoa Greenways are well lit at night making a wonderful evening ride for food and beverages.

[@joyfultrails]

Thanks for the info!

[@jackfarris7056]

Another sparkling jewel in your treasure chest of vlogs. Can't agree more about how good signage elevates a trail system.

[@joyfultrails]

Thanks so much 🙂

[@mickeytaylor7111]

Thx for the reply. Have a blessed day. I do enjoy you blog.

[@joyfultrails]

@@mickeytaylor7111 Sure thing. Thanks for watching 🙂

[@frankclave-mq9qy]

During the winter holidays, Weigel's egg nog is the best. Haven't tried the banana pudding milk, yet. But, I'll take your word for it. Thanks for your detailed reporting.

[@joyfultrails]

😂🤣😂

[@cbmirada]

I really love the Weigels Banana Pudding milk, one of my favorites 😊. I live in Maryville and we really love our little town, but yes the trails need maps and signage 👍

[@hmguthrie2372]

I’m from the area! ❤ I’ve never been so entertained! This video is fantastic and I feel the same way about the need for signs along the greenway! 🎉 Thanks!

[@joyfultrails]

Awesome! It really is a great trail. I enjoyed my visit very much.

[@johnlong3784]

Thanks Again for sharing!!🎉👏 Love viewing your trips..😊🚴

[@joyfultrails]

Thanks!

[@carrollleopard1961]

Thanks for sharing this trail video. Hopefully they’ll work on improving the trail experience. Signage is very important on trails. Maryville is a beautiful area of Tennessee.

[@joyfultrails]

I really enjoyed my visit there. Thanks for watching 🙂

[@user-pe8pf5wb2n]

Hi Scott . . . awesome video. I've ridden this trail for over 10 years and you've taken me places on it, that I've never been to. Great historical background on the two cities also. Glad we got to meet you on the Alcoa bridge when you were filming. You're so right about the signage. Hope the cities pick up on it. We have a little bit of the same problem in Knoxville, several greenways that connect to make a great ride, if you know how to do it. If you're ever back in the area, I have put together what I call the "Tour De Knox", that takes you past all the great Knoxville landmarks that I'll take ya on, and I'll even buy ya some of that Banana Pudding Milk for your water bottle. Thanks for sharing!!

[@joyfultrails]

Thanks so much for the kind words. Actually, I did ride portions of the Neyland, 2nd Creek, 3rd Creek & Knox Blount greenways the next day! I'm sure there's some cool stuff that I missed. There are more signs in downtown Knoxville than in Maryville-Alcoa...but you're right, I can see where it's somewhat confusing. Some really cool sights, though! Would love to know what your tips are regarding a good route to take in Knoxville. Maybe someday. Thanks for watching!

[@dr.t.markpollard8479]

Just found your channel. GREAT!! I live in upstate SC. We have just started biking. Thank you for taking the time to create such great content. We plan to ride these. God Bless

[@joyfultrails]

Thanks so much!

[@southernebiking]

Perfect place to demonstrate how important navigation app is. This is why we always build our routes before we leave. You have found a great place. Why did you show them bridges, scared the crap out of Michelle. Lol but in the end, she said, maybe we need to go there. So thank you much Scott.

[@joyfultrails]

Yeah, this was the most confusing trail I think I've been on yet, as far as navigation. But it was still a lot of fun. Hey, tell Michelle the 360 camera always makes the bridges look taller and scarier than they are in real life! :) This area is just about 20 minutes south of Knoxville. Knoxville has a bunch of trails in the downtown area, about 4 of which basically touch each other...so I could see you guys putting together a nice weekend of riding.

[@davepov]

This is a really professionally done video. Brilliant videography, nice music, tons of different shots, different angles, to give you a feel for the trail system. @climb4's point is a good one since I have been on many trails all over the USA and this is the only one I have ever seen that's fully lighted for night riding/walking. I agree with your one criticism about signage. One other criticism I have is, Knoxville also has an amazing Greenway (trail) system but it is not connected to the Maryville/Alcoa system. I read that if you ride ALL of the Maryville/Alcoa system it's 27 miles total. The Knoxville system is even bigger. So, can you imagine what an amazing ride it would be if both systems were connected?!. These cities have to understand what a great attraction such a thing would be for visitors. Sure, people mostly come to East Tennesse for the Smokey Montains but many more would come (like you did) just to ride a trail system that covered both cities.

[@joyfultrails]

Thank you! I try really hard and it’s nice when it’s noticed and appreciated. 🙂 yes, I’ve been on many of the trails in the Knoxville area so I understand what you’re talking about. Maybe one day they’ll connect everything up.

[@stephaniegundlachchess944]

Great video and commentary. I’m a “Marevul” resident. And you’re correct about the signage. The Townsend trail is also great with plenty of places to stop for lunch. And car free days on Wednesdays on Cades Cove Loop is a must. Glad you enjoyed our area.

[@joyfultrails]

Good to know! I will put those on my to-do list. Thanks for watching 🙂

[@alannebel2720]

great trail. nice video, worth the wait. As always loved your history lesson and your humor :)

[@joyfultrails]

Thanks! Always good to hear from you.

[@marklawrence4596]

Love the Banana Pudding Milk humor along with the trail info. We may be in that neighborhood to check it out next year. Thanks!

[@joyfultrails]

Thanks! 😬

[@heatherd212]

🇨🇦 you do an amazing job making these videos, thank you

[@joyfultrails]

Thanks! I appreciate you saying that.

[@billysbikesbrews7183]

Loved the video.. thanks for drinking the Banana Pudding Milk.. so I don’t have to 🫤.. it’s a shame on the poor signage.. looks like a very Scenic Trail.. 👍🎥😎🚴‍♂️

[@joyfultrails]

Ha! Yeah, that whole banana pudding milk thing was one of those things that just kind of happened, you know? :) I didn't finish the whole bottle - had kind of a chemical taste, go figure - but it tasted better the more I had of it... :)

[@marcusrawls2125]

I have had the pleasure of watching several of your videos now and love them! Love the format/script you have created. You keep things interesting, informative and helpful. Especially love the history about the places you are riding and makes me want to visit them as well. Also I love the doughnut reviews I tend to refer to them as Vitamin O's! Lol Keep up the great work!!

[@joyfultrails]

Thank you, I really appreciate that. Spoiler alert: my next long-form trail review will include a visit to - IMHO - the best Krispy Kreme donut shop in existence! :) Thanks for watching, and for the kind comments.

[@chrishoffman9923]

Simply put ; good review .

[@joyfultrails]

Thanks 🙂

[@ronaldmmiller]

Oh yes… I would partake of banana pudding anything!

[@joyfultrails]

@@ronaldmmiller 😂

[@ronwilly9732]

I’m surprised I didn’t see you while I was walking the trail. I walk or bike it at least once a week 🚴 great video keep it up‼️

[@joyfultrails]

Thanks! Maybe next time… 😬

[@user-cn7sk7gw7l]

So, that's where the "Snitch" is from. Loved your video and Roll Tide!

[@joyfultrails]

Correct! ... lol ... RTR!

[@terrybriggs3289]

Nice Howard Cosell impression ! Many didnt pick up on that,now Im showing my age....lol

[@joyfultrails]

Ha! Yeah, good old Howard…

[@user-pd4py4sd1p]

Loving your videos! I'm CRAZYDEANO closing in on 66 😮 hope we meet out there sometime I will be on a electric bike with my roller skates on making a trail if I have too 😊 keep the videos coming thanks❤

[@joyfultrails]

Awesome! Thanks for watching... :)

[@matthewrschuler]

Another excellent video! 👍

[@joyfultrails]

Thank you!

[@matthewrschuler]

@@joyfultrailsBTW, the billion dollar check is in the mail. 🤣

[@colinmyster7750]

That restored trestle once was apart of a line that connected the north and south plant without having to use the mainline railroad tracks that once went to Calderwood, TN. Now the line has been abandoned just a little bit past the south plant and arconic uses the former mainline now. I live there and constantly use the trails and it took me a while to memorize which routes went where because of the signage problem

[@joyfultrails]

Thanks for the info. Riding over that old trestle is really cool.

[@quarterpie2769]

I walk through there all the time!

[@denzilbritt2314]

GO VOLS!!! Good video!

[@joyfultrails]

I hear ya! Hey, it's a great rivalry. Third Saturday in October. Been a little one-sided over the past 16 years or so, but with Coach Saban gone...well, you never know.

[@leegandysdroid]

Call me crazy...but this may be your best review yet. 5 STARS...and my sincere gratitude for trying the banana pudding milk so we don't have to. While you're at it, feel free to try all of the Kit Kats and Frosted Flakes abnormal flavors too (a 2nd KZbin channel, perhaps?) As always, thanks Scott!

[@joyfultrails]

Ha! Well, I started a new low-carb diet today and I'm going to try to quit sugar...(yikes!) ... so I'll have to leave all that stuff to someone else, I guess... :)

[@pedrofernandez8729]

I like to take a small bottle of choco milk, put it in the freezer for 30 mins where it gets to the point just before freezing, it's yummy, yummy. Even more yummy than ice cream.

[@joyfultrails]

This is true...

[@garyfisk370]

Thank you for posting. We get to the area every year. Great vid, and unclear why trail managers did not update kiosks with maps and signing - but why wait to get home to open a map app? Even traillink or google maps with biking layer turned on can demystify the trail?

[@joyfultrails]

You’re right. And I did consult Alltrails several times. But some people aren’t in the habit of doing that…it would just be nice to see a sign with an arrow saying “go this way.” 😂

[@Themudfish1]

How about a video ranking your top ten trails. Thank you for such enjoyable stories.

[@joyfultrails]

I did a year-end top ten from the trails I visited last year. Video came out right at the end of the year… I’ll probably do the same this year. 🙂

[@robertganther3695]

Another great video, Scotty. I always enjoy the history lessons. Does alcoa put extra fluoride in the pudding milk.

[@joyfultrails]

That’s a great question… 😳 ha! Thanks for watching.

[@TrekkingwithMikeandDeb]

Hard pass on the milk but thumbs 👍 up on the trail.

[@joyfultrails]

I hear ya!

[@chefzilla314]

Another great video. How long are you normally riding and filming?

[@joyfultrails]

Thanks. Usually it’s a full day because of all the video…lots of stops and starts and going back over certain spots multiple times.

[@chefzilla314]

@joyfultrails Makes sense. My wife and I talk about how well you shoot videos. Keep on pedaling. We look forward to your next outing.

[@avanteadventures]

And, to think I thought all along you were going to say no portalets or not enough of them. Signage? Yes, that’s a concern too. Enjoyed the vid and can’t wait to stop at Weigels and try the BCP milk!

[@joyfultrails]

Thanks for watching...and good luck with the milk. I'm holding out now for Coconut Creme Pie Milk... 😂

[@tracyleonard7910]

Hey Scott it's Tracy and Jonathan. We met you while you where here in Marevul 😂. Hope you are doing well.

[@joyfultrails]

Hey! I am doing well, thanks. "Marevul" 😂 I see what you did there...

[@mickeytaylor7111]

Where did you get you handle bars? And make.

[@joyfultrails]

It is a Townie 7-D Step-Over. Those are the handlebars that came with the bike. I have had that bike since May 2021 and have really enjoyed it.

[@devinemichae]

Roll Tide!!!

[@joyfultrails]

Roll Tide!

[@sctt2525]

I'm local in Blount and gave up riding the greenbelt as the walkers refuse to give any of the path to cyclists. Also, I'm surprised one of our overbearing Maryville police officers didn't threaten to write you a ticket for riding without a helmet. As for the signage, it's probably in the works - they just need to raise our taxes a dozen more times to pay for it. Great video!

[@joyfultrails]

There’s a helmet LAW? Wow! Also, I have the same issue with an overcrowded trail where I live. Well, thanks for watching! 🤷‍♂️

[@sctt2525]

@@joyfultrails I was told by Maryville PD that I was legal to ride in the street (much more dangerous)without a helmet if over 16 yo. But, that a helmet is required on the trail. It makes no sense.

[@gindypa]

Been watching yr videos for about a yr - thanks - BTW - u r a grown man but may want to consider wearing a helmet- 1 oops it all it takes and a helmet may well keep u away for medical care- also as a person who posts content- it’s a positive thing to show for yr audience

[@Random324-42]

Loved the video! I agree that branding/signage seems like it makes a huge difference. Which trails that you’ve ridden have had the best signage?

[@joyfultrails]

I think two of the best as far as maps and signage are concerned, are in North Carolina. Charlotte’s Little Sugar Creek Greenway, and the Thermal Belt Rail Trail out of Forest City. Those two are excellent.

[@fromtntotx]

Where on the greenway do you ride on a restored railroad tressel?

[@joyfultrails]

Well, not being from there, it’s a little hard to describe. But as you’re riding along the trail, you get to a point where you can either turn left and continue on (past some large metal antennae-like structures) to the duck pond OR you can turn right and head up a hill. That uphill section leads to the top of that railroad trestle, and as you passed over the railroad trestle it takes you over towards the middle and high school. Hope that helps!

[@colinmyster7750]

@@joyfultrailsyeah it’s kind of weird and random but I guess they had the land so why not

[@rh-bd6wv]

There is nothing to not like about the trail or video

[@joyfultrails]

Thanks for watching!

[@pedrofernandez8729]

I suppose she pronounces Alcoa "Alcohola"

[@joyfultrails]

😂

[@rpsigns1]

Never stick your banana in your milk.

[@joyfultrails]

😂🤣😂

[@MrMoonpie001]

Not a word about Pat Summitt!!!!!!!!! Shame, shame and shame on you!!!!!!!! en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pat_Summitt Moonpie

[@joyfultrails]

@@MrMoonpie001 i’m confused… Was she from Maryville/Alcoa?