Trail 8: Ijams Crag
Overview
This trail is a nice introduction to the area of Ijams that is centered around Mead’s Quarry, which Ijams refers to as the Quarryside area. The hike begins at the quarry and winds up a smooth then rocky trail. The overlook is for Ijams Crag, a popular outdoor rock climbing area. We love having a snack at the shade of the pine trees at the overlook. After winding back to the start, be sure to explore one of the two excellent nature play areas nearby or take a side trail back to extend the trip. This area offers something for all ages, but the hike itself is best suited to young hikers who are able navigate steeper, rocky terrain. Younger hikers will need assistance.
Key Characteristics
| Characteristic | Details |
|---|---|
| Time Estimate | 45 minutes - 1.5 hours |
| Trail Distance (Miles) | 1.5 |
| Elevation Change | Moderate |
| Pets | Allowed on leash |
| Parking Pass/Entrance Fee | Not Required |
| Restroom(s) | Yes |
| Best Ages | Little Kids and Big Kids |
| Strollers and Wheelchairs | Not accessible |
Directions to the Trailhead
Trailhead Address: Meads Quarry, 3526 Island Home Ave, Knoxville, TN 37920
Trailhead GPS Coordinates: 35.95174, -83.86587
Mead’s Quarry–near the parking area now filled with crystal clear water–was a quarry for pink-hued Tennessee Marble. This type of marble was used extensively in prominent buildings in the 1800s and early-mid 1900s, including the National Gallary of Art in Washington, D.C.
Park in the parking lot for Meads Quarry using the above address. The trail begins alongside the disused railroad tracks; look for a sign for Imery’s Trail.
Trail Description
| Distance from Start | Description |
|---|---|
| 0.0 | Start on Imery’s trail, heading away from the parking lot. |
| 0.15 | Gradually, then more steeply, begin to ascend. |
| 0.30 | Trail levels out at an intersection between Imery’s Trail, Rock Bridge Trail, and Gravel Road Trail. |
| 0.5 | Rocky and steep. |
| 0.75 | Reach the overlook to Ijams Quarry. Rest up, and then turn around to head back, or continue farther along on Imery’s! |
| 1.50 | Traihead. |
Nearby
- Make sure to stop by the Ijams Visitor Center for a unique gift shop and a small collection of local river-based animals! Check out the Ijams River and Tower loop for an introduction to this other area of the Ijams Nature Center.
- Play at the Ijams Nature Playscape. This is an amazing part of Ijams, worthy of a visit on its own. Tucked away a bit on the side of the parking area at Mead’s Quarry. It’s a favorite for kids, with a treehouse, tightrope, stumps for jumping, and, yes, a mud pit!
- Check out the Ijams Primal playground. Also nearby, smaller than the Nature Playground, but packed with features for climbing and jumping for kids able to climb and explore with little adult assistance.