River Bluff Trail

This is a great trail for observing a large variety of wildflowers in a small area including several rare species. Rich pockets of wildflowers are scattered over the hillside, especially yellow trout lilies, celandine poppies, bloodroot, spring beauties, and toothwort—bring your camera outfitted with a macro lens. If you are just learning to identify wildflowers, attend one of the annual wildflowers walks held each spring. This trail is on the Norris Dam Reservation on the west side of the dam—across the tailwaters from the Songbird Trail. Norris Dam is about 30 miles north of Knoxville, Tenn., off I-75, exit 122.

Driving Directions

To reach the TVA River Bluff Small Wild Area, take the Lake City exit 128 off I-75 north of Knoxville. Follow U.S. Hwy. 441 past the Norris Dam State Park entrance on the left and continue approximately 3/4 mile to Dabney Road on the right. Turn onto Dabney Road, bear to the left, and the Small Wild Area trailhead parking area is located approximately 3/4 mile from U.S. 441.