Outdoor KnoxFest presented by Humana is a weekend for adventurers, outdoor enthusiasts, and nature lovers to celebrate outdoor recreation in Knoxville and its Urban Wilderness on April 24-26, 2015. Produced by Legacy Parks Foundation, the event offers participants the opportunity to experience for free Knoxville’s amazing recreational amenities. Whether from a hiking trail, a bike path, or on the river, there are activities for every skill level, and an assortment of clinics and demonstrations provide the chance to learn something new.
“At Humana, we are passionate about improving community wellness and inspiring individuals and families to engage with their health through nutrition, exercise, and overall well-being,” said Barry Boster, Humana Tennessee Market Vice President. “The Outdoor KnoxFest offers residents an array of sports and outdoor adventures that demonstrate a healthy, active lifestyle does not necessarily require a gym.”
Several of the favorite events from previous years will be offered again, including a history hike at Ft. Dickerson, introductory mountain bike rides, wildflower hikes, and open paddles for trying a standup paddleboard, kayak, or canoe. Clinics will be presented on Introduction to Mountain Biking, GOPRO, Fly-Fishing, and Bicycle Maintenance.
“One of Legacy Parks’ objectives is to promote Knoxville as an outdoor recreation destination and encourage people to get out and experience all the incredible amenities we have – from the river to the Urban Wilderness and even our many miles of greenways,” said Carol Evans, Executive Director of Legacy Parks Foundation. “Most of the activities on the schedule now include options for three separate skill levels. Whether you are a beginner and just want to try a new activity, or you want a serious challenge, we have an event just for you,” she added.
Several New Activities This Year
Outdoor KnoxFest will kick off with an event in conjunction with the Tennessee Bike Summit on Friday night at The Public House. A bike scavenger hunt, open to the public, will begin with registration at The Public House courtyard, 212 W. Magnolia Avenue, at 5:30 p.m. A celebration and awards will follow the conclusion of the ride.
And, for the first time, you can bring your furry friend on a PetSafe Hike with Your Hound on Saturday or Sunday at Ft. Dickerson. Many of the trails in Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness welcome pets on leashes.
Another new event this year is the SweetWater Clean Sweep River Clean-up on Saturday, April 25 at 2 p.m. Participants on the river and on land will help clean up Legacy Parks property for the summer season.
SweetWater and Aubrey’s restaurants are partnering to give away prize packages and a grand prize SweetWater standup paddleboard to participants in the clean up. Visit Aubrey’s to register in advance of the event and bring your canoes, kayaks, paddleboards, or rafts and join us on April 25 for a fun time on the water. SweetWater is also sponsoring the after party for all participants at the Outdoor Adventure Center beginning at 4:30. This is one party you don’t want to miss!
The majority of events and equipment trials are free, though a few competitive events require a small fee. Registration is recommended for some events with limited equipment.
Thanks to our sponsors!
