Activities
Hiking
Bays Mountain Park features over 25 miles of beautiful hiking trails that cover most of the 3500 acres of the park. Take a relaxing stroll around the lake or, for the more adventurous, make the trek up to the fire tower. Now matter where you go, you're sure to encounter natural wildlife and amazing scenery.
Important Information:
- Be sure to take a current Trail Map with you on your hike. Trail maps are also available at the Nature Center.
- Bays Mountain is a nature preserve. Please remember to respect the natural environment by staying on the designated trails.
- Take drinking water with you and stay properly hydrated.
- Take a cell phone with you in case of emergency. If you do get lost, call the Nature Center immediately at (423)229-9447.
Orienteering
A great way to explore some of the lakeside trails at Bays Mountain. Pick up an orienteering map and log sheet at the Nature Center.
GPS Rental
Several GPS units are available for rental at the Bays Mountain Nature Center.
- GPS units are available for DAILY rental at the rate of $5.00 per unit.
- Rental fee is payable ONLY by credit card.
- GPS units are available for pick up and return during regular building hours. Units must be turned in 30 minutes prior to closing.
Mountain Biking
Enjoy a leisurely ride around the Bays Mountain Resevoir by staying on Lake Road or challenge yourself with a trek out to the Fire Tower on River Mountian Road. Bays Mountain has a wide variety of terrain suited to all levels of riders.
Important Information for all riders:
- Only certain trails are open to mountain bikes. Be sure to take a current Trail Map with you on your ride. Trail maps are also available at the Nature Center.
- All riders must register their bikes at the Nature Center Gift Shop. There is a one time fee of $2.00 to register your bike. To register, bring your completed form to the Nature Center. Once we inspect your bike you will receive a sticker to place on your bike. Download a registration form >>
Regulations and Trail Map >> - Helmets are required
- Bays Mountain is a nature preserve. Please remember to respect the natural environment by staying on the designated mountain bike trails.
- Be mindful of others who are also here to enjoy the peaceful nature of Bays Mountain. Be sure to let hikers and other riders know that you are approaching by calling out your intentions (i.e., "Passing on the left!".)
Natural History Programs
Learn about the natural environment and native animals of East Tennessee by attending one of our Nature Programs. Bays Mountain Features a wide variety of programs from wolves to reptiles. More Details >>
Fishing from the Dam
Fishing is allowed from the dam to people 55 years or older (must have proof of age), and for people under 16 years old. Ages 12-15 MUST have a youth licence. All other state regulations apply.
Fish Found in Lake: Bass, Bluegill, and Channel Catfish.
Time and dates
June through August - Monday through Saturday from 8:30 A.M. to 12:00 P.M.
September through May - Monday and Saturday only from 8:30 A.M. to 12:00 P.M.
Bait Allowed
Any bait or lures except live minnows.
Bluegill may be caught from Bays Mountain Lake and used as bait for other fish.
Primative Camping Area
Overnight camping is a permitted for scout groups and recognized organizations and only in designated areas. The fee is $20.00 per group per night.
Please contact our Nature Center staff for more information.
Observing with Telescopes
Come and enjoy spectacular views of the skies through the Bays Mountain Observatory telescopes. Our StarWatch program is free and occurs on Saturday evenings during March, April, October and November. More information about our observatories and observing programs.