Ijams Nature Center

Activity Overview

Enjoy some great outdoor adventures and wilderness with your family and friends at 300-acre Ijams Nature center in Knoxville, Tennessee. Located just minutes from downtown is a wonderful nature area with hiking and biking trails offering bird watching and wildlife viewing. The nature center has been ranked among the best attractions to visit in Knoxville, the nature center was developed by Harry Ijams, a leading bird expert. Visitors can also enjoy canoeing, kayaking or paddling. The trails are open every day, all through the year.

Things to Do

• Ijams nature center invites you to discover nature and relax in beautiful natural surroundings with your family. Explore the trails, get a trail map and other information from the visitor center.
• Enjoy paddling or canoeing on Mead's quarry lake, take in stunning views of the lake, you can also spot freshwater jellyfish during the summer.
• Jo's grove is a wonderful nature play area for the children, it helps them explore and learn more about nature. Several events for the kids are held at Jo's grove.
• The river boardwalk lets you explore wildlife and different birds, spot blue herons and other shoreline birds.
• Take a stroll through gardens, ponds and rock pools on the home site trails.
• Enjoy biking on 9 miles of biking trails that weave through woodlands, bikes can be rented.
• Buy nature-themed gifts, books, t-shirts, jewelry, toys, and other products from Ijam's gift shop.
• Take a break and enjoy some snacks and drinks at the visitor center.
• Bring children to the Humming bird festival that is held in August, see hummingbirds live and learn more about them, also see demonstrations, bird supplies, arts and crafts and other activities.

Ijams nature center Insider Tips

• Restrooms are available.
• You can bring pets.