I want to share a park that brings me much joy. It is Lakeshore Park Conservancy in Knoxville, Tennessee. I resisted going there for months because it appeared industrial and lacked scenery from the view I had while driving past the front entrance. I prefer to be near water or witness a view of the mountains when walking, both of which could not be seen while passing Lakeshore Park. Not only was I wrong about my notions of limited views within the park, but the rich history of the land also deepened my intrigue with it.
Like much of Knoxville, Lakeshore Park was originally inhabited by the Cherokee people and later became a site devoted to people with mental health issues, although the institute’s practices are questionable at best. Its complex history is at least part of what lures me to its winding trail.
Lakeshore Park sits on a large rolling hill with breathtaking views of the Tennessee mountains, Fort Loudon Lake, and the luscious greenery and flowers in the park. The most interesting plant in the park is the Indian Bean Tree. Many of the park’s plants are native to the area, like the hibiscus, ferns, and wildflowers that grow along the trail.
At the top of the hill, is an old-looking brick building that has an eeriness to it. It was part of what was once known as “The East Tennessee Hospital for the Insane,” and was the first mental health institute in Tennessee. Perhaps it is because of the known history, but the bones of the building, the structure itself, evoke a sullenness and doom, like the kind of building described in a horror novel. I find myself staring at it, waiting for a ghost to appear in the window and close the curtains or for a former inhabitant to come staggering out onto the porch with a cigar in hand.
The building is encompassed by a large lawn, and directly in front of it is the HGTV Overlook. The overlook is draped with string lights and tables for two, which allows visitors to admire their scenic surroundings. It is a popular place to be, especially at sunset. I often see young women dressed in flowy, flowery dresses relaxing on the front lawn, having a picnic, or soaking up the sun. Other times, photographers capture images of brides and grooms-to-be with a majestic background to complement the festive occasion.
As the trail of Lakeshore Park descends from the overlook, there are benches to sit and rest, along with a monument dedicated to the Haslam family, who donated to the upkeeping of the sprawling 185-acre park. At the bottom is a playground along with a climate-controlled restroom. There are also two new playgrounds and an outdoor adult fitness center.
The park is currently undergoing a $42 million expansion and renovation that seems to be near completion. Sections of the trail that were previously closed have now reopened including a 2.2-mile loop around the entire park. The Haslam Sports Center is now open, along with six pickleball courts and a high school basketball court available for reservation. The park is hosting a pickleball tournament on March 9th.
There is something for everyone at Lakeshore Park, which adds to its charm. Having more third places is something that many of us could use and has been proven beneficial to people’s health and happiness. For more information, visit its website https://lakeshoreparkknoxville.org. Lakeshore Park Conservancy currently has several job opportunities available.