What is the Tennessee RiverLine?

The Tennessee RiverLine is a 1.2-million-acre system of outdoor recreation experiences on and along the 652-mile reach of the Tennessee River. Winding through four states and dozens of communities, the RiverLine invites people of all backgrounds and abilities to connect with the river through paddling, hiking, biking, fishing, birding, camping, and more. It reframes the river and its surrounding landscapes as a continuous river park for exploration, health, learning, and connection—welcoming everyone to experience the beauty and richness of the Tennessee River Valley.

How can I experience the RiverLine today?

While full implementation of new amenities and designs will unfold over time, the Tennessee RiverLine is ready for you to explore today!

Right now, residents and visitors can experience the RiverLine through a wide range of outdoor recreation activities on and along the river’s 652-mile reach. From paddling calm backwaters to boating across open reservoirs, hiking wooded bluffs, or casting a line at sunrise, the opportunities for year-round adventure are abundant. Wildlife watchers and birders will find plenty to enjoy, especially during migration seasons, while cyclists and campers can plan trips around scenic trails and riverfront parks.

But the Tennessee RiverLine is more than a destination for outdoor enthusiasts — it’s also a gateway to the culture, history, and everyday vibrancy of the region’s RiverTowns. Many of these communities host seasonal festivals, live music, and public art; offer historic walking tours and museum experiences; and boast charming downtowns with shops, local eateries, and river-view restaurants.

Whether you're planning a weekend paddle and picnic, a scenic drive with stops in multiple towns, or simply exploring a new corner of your home region, the RiverLine awaits you. It is already bringing people together — on the water, on the trail, and in the heart of our river communities.

Who is making it happen?

Behind this system is the Tennessee RiverLine organization—a regional partnership led by UT Extension at the UT Institute of Agriculture–in collaboration with principal partners UT Knoxville and Tennessee Valley Authority. The organization supports and connects communities through planning and design, programming and events, communications and marketing, and shared resources. Together with local governments, state and federal agencies, organizations, local leaders, and residents, the Tennessee RiverLine organization works to strengthen community vitality, expand and improve access to the river for more people, and catalyze economic development, tourism, and stewardship—ensuring the Tennessee River remains a vibrant and healthy asset for all.