The Tennessee Valley Authority recently opened a new loop trail, Mill Creek Loop, at Loyston Point Recreation Area, which is located on Norris Lake in Andersonville, Tenn. With the addition of this loop, hikers and mountain bikers now have the opportunity to exercise on a trail system that reaches almost 13 miles in length. Providing spectacular views of Norris Lake and the Smoky and Cumberland mountain ranges, the trail was christened by more than 250 mountain bikers during its grand opening.

The construction of the Mill Creek Loop trail took approximately 2 1/2 months to complete. The trail was primarily constructed with cyclists in mind; it is also very hiker friendly.

The new TVA trail is 7.3 miles long, with a width of 46 inches. It is best suited for mountain bikers with experience on courses considered to be of intermediate difficulty, according to Matthew Kellogg, the president of the Appalachian Mountain Bike Club. Thanks to the trail’s added length, Loyston Point will become a destination for mountain biking enthusiasts, who often seek a full day’s adventure, not just a short, leisurely ride. For those who wish to spend the night near the trail so they can continue their activities the next day, the recreation area features a campground that includes 64 campsites and a restroom with heated showers.

The excitement does not have to end once people have finished hiking or riding the new trail. Loyston Point is a paradise for those who love the outdoors. Its 2.5 miles of hiking-only paths will take visitors to Hemlock Bluff Small Wild Area, which gives visitors a great opportunity to see wildflowers in bloom and view wildlife in its natural habitat. In addition to the trails and campsites, the recreation area also offers fishing, hunting, picnic shelters, a playground, swimming areas and a boat ramp.

The Loyston Point Recreation Area, managed by the TVA, should be near the top of the list for anyone seeking a premier hiking and mountain biking destination in the southeastern United States. Wet weather conditions will not easily deteriorate the paths, so the trip can take place during any time of the year.