Nashville, often celebrated as the Music City, harbors an adventurous spirit through its favorite hiking trails near Nashville that weave around the majestic Cumberland River, uncovering the natural beauty of Tennessee.
As you step out, the Nashville Greenways welcome you. These trails, sprawling across Davidson County with over 190 miles (306 km) of trails, offer more than just a space for exercise; they invite you to experience tranquility, punctuated with picnic tables for a serene halt amidst nature.
Whether you're planning a family outing within a two-hour drive or seeking dog-friendly trails for an adventure with your four-legged companion, Nashville's hinterlands serve as a perfect escape. Engage with the surroundings, where each path promises a unique blend of cultural vibrancy and serene natural beauty, making every hike a memorable expedition.
Radnor Lake State Park in Nashville
Location: Nashville, TN
Size: 1,368 acres (5.54 sq. km.)
Number of Hiking Trails: Several, including notable ones
Total Length of Hiking Trails: Various lengths, main trails include a 5-mile loop
Radnor Lake State Park, a precious natural reserve a short drive from downtown Nashville, is a sanctuary for both wildlife and humans, featuring a rich tapestry of flora and fauna, alongside an array of trails tailored for every level of hiker.
The Lake Trail stands as the park's jewel, providing a level, unpaved path that invites visitors for a gentle stroll or a casual jog.
For those seeking more of a challenge, the 5-mile (8 km) South Cove and Ganier Ridge Loop Trail emerges as a prime choice, presenting a hearty elevation gain of 787 feet (240 meters). This longer trail rewards adventurers with striking views and immersive encounters with the park's natural beauty, from dense woodlands to the tranquil shores of Radnor Lake.
Total Length of Hiking Trails: 60+ miles (96.5+ km) of scenic trails
Edwin and Percy Warner Parks, collectively known as Warner Parks, are nestled just a stone's throw away from Nashville. These parks boast several scenic trails that cater to a wide range of outdoor activities, including walking, hiking, biking, and running.
Their extensive network of pet-friendly trails and paved roadways, mountain biking trails, and bridle paths make them ideal for visitors seeking varied recreational opportunities in a natural setting. The Harpeth Woods Trail exemplifies the perfect blend of challenge and beauty the parks offer, while the Mossy Ridge Trail, known for its challenging terrain and remarkable elevation gain, is a favorite among locals and tourists alike for its panoramic vistas of the park and, on clear days, the Nashville skyline.
Percy Warner Park, the larger of the two, and its sister park, Edwin Warner, are two of the most cherished green spaces in Davidson County. Not just a haven for hikers, the parks also feature amenities like a dog park, making it a perfect outdoor destination for visitors with pets.
Warner Woods Loop Trail
Location: Percy Warner Park, Nashville, TN
Distance: approximately 2.5 miles (4 km)
Hiking Duration: Approximately 1.5 to 2 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Trail Type: Loop
The Warner Woods Trail presents a medium-length loop trail that is blazed white and offers a moderate level of difficulty for hikers. This entire trail is notable for winding through the park's densely wooded interior, providing a tranquil and immersive nature experience. Roughly a third of this trail courses through some of the most private and untouched areas of the park, inviting hikers into a secluded retreat.
Additionally, the Warner Woods Trail is interconnected with other pathways within the park, notably the Mossy Ridge Trail Loop, enhancing the exploration options for visitors. This integration allows for an extended exploration of Percy Warner Park’s landscapes, encompassing rich biodiversity and scenic beauty.
Hikers can anticipate a rewarding "nice walk in the woods," enriched by the opportunity to connect with nature.
Location: Northwest of Cookeville in Jackson County, Tennessee (map)
Size: 282 acres (1.14 sq. km.)
Number of Hiking Trails: 4
Total Length of Hiking Trails: Approximately 6.9 miles (11 km)
Cummins Falls State Park is a haven for adventurers and nature lovers. The park's centerpiece, the Cummins Falls Trail, challenges hikers with a steep descent into a gorge, necessitating multiple river crossings to reach the breathtaking 75-foot (23-meter) waterfall. This trek is notably unique for its rugged terrain, requiring agility and caution, especially after rain increases the water levels.
For those looking for a cooler venture, the swimming hole at the base of the falls provides a refreshing dip amid Tennessee's warmth. More about the trails is here.
Beyond the strenuous 3-mile (4.8 km) Cummins Falls Trail (Gorge Trail), the park offers more serene experiences. The Ridge Trail, at 2.5 miles (4 km), offers a gentler path through less trafficked areas, allowing hikers peaceful solitude with views of the picturesque surroundings.
Total Length of Hiking Trails: Over 40 miles (64.4 km) when combined with river exploration
Harpeth River State Park, nestled just west of Nashville and approximately an hour's drive away, provides a wide array of activities for outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore Tennessee's natural beauty by both canoe and foot. The park is most notable for offering several miles of the Harpeth River accessible for exploration. Among the attractions, the Bluff Overlook Trail stands out for its breathtaking views.
The park's diverse trails, including the popular Hidden Lake Double Loop, Wildcat, Alva, and Gym trails, cater to hikers of all skill levels, offering dense forests and open meadows.
The Alva and Gym trail, a 2.1-mile (3.8 km) lightly trafficked loop, is particularly lauded for its serene forest setting and is a must-visit for those seeking a peaceful hiking experience. The Hidden Lake Double Loop is another highlight, providing scenic views of its eponymous lake amidst a backdrop of lush greenery.
Fiery Gizzard Trail - Grundy Forest State Natural Area at South Cumberland State Park
Location: Grundy Forest State Natural Area at South Cumberland State Park
Distance: 13 miles (one-way)
Hiking Duration: 8-12 hours
Difficulty: Challenging
Trail Type: Point to point
The Fiery Gizzard Trail divides into two significant sections, Savage Gulf and the Fiery Gizzard. This trail is acclaimed for its complex terrain and the mesmerizing natural beauty enveloping it. Extending from Grundy Forest State Natural Area to Foster Falls (map), the trail carves its path through an ancient gorge adorned with geological formations and plummets, showcasing the raw and untamed aspect of the Southeast's landscape.
Traversing this trail offers adventurers a profound backcountry experience. With a selection of campsites, including the Small Wilds Campground and Little Cove Campground, hikers can immerse themselves in a multi-day exploration.
The trail’s complexity is offset by Raven Point and the serene flows of Sycamore Falls, making it a staple for trail enthusiasts.
Rock Island State Park, nestled near the confluence of the Caney Fork, Collins, and Rocky Rivers just before they flow into Center Hill Lake, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.
The park boasts several hiking trails, offering exploration through stunning natural landscapes. Highlights include the Twin Falls Overlook and the captivating Blue Hole Falls, both of which provide breathtaking views and photo opportunities. The park's unique geography features scenic overlooks, cascading waterfalls, serene deep pools, and intriguing limestone paths, making every visit memorable.
Apart from its natural beauty, Rock Island State Park offers ample recreational activities. Visitors can enjoy a quick hike up the Bluff Trail to view the historic window waterfall, a feature that captures the park's essence. With around six miles of shoreline, the park facilitates a range of water-based activities. Camping enthusiasts will find the park's sites accommodating, with several shorter trails linking the walk-in campsites to the day-use area, ferry landing, and boathouse.
Total Length of Hiking Trails: Varies; includes both day-use and overnight trails
Fall Creek Falls State Park, situated about 100 miles (161 km) from Nashville, stands as one of Tennessee's most frequented state parks, attracting visitors with its remarkable natural beauty and range of outdoor activities.
The park's crown jewel, Fall Creek Falls, is one of the tallest waterfalls in the eastern United States, plunging 256 feet (78 meters) amidst lush forest and rugged terrain. Aside from its namesake waterfall, the park houses several other waterfalls, each offering its unique allure and a perfect scenario for nature photographers and enthusiasts alike.
For those seeking adventure and the tranquility of nature, the park offers two long-distance overnight trails that promise a more immersive wilderness experience.
Meanwhile, day-use trails, including the Gorge Overlook Trail, a 1.2-mile (1.9 km) path that skirts the ridge around Fall Creek Falls, provide shorter, family-friendly hiking options designed for both recreational and educational purposes.
Sedge Hill Trail
Location: Beaman Park, Nashville, TN
Distance: 0.6 miles (about 1 km)
Hiking Duration: 1 hour
Difficulty: Easy
Trail Type: Out and back
The Sedge Hill Trail is a gentle trail situated within the expansive and biodiverse Beaman Park in Nashville. Originating from the Beaman Park Nature Center parking lot, this trail is suitable for all ages and skill levels, taking about an hour to complete.
The trail’s proximity to Nashville, only an hour away, makes it an ideal outing for city dwellers seeking a quick retreat into nature.
Linking seamlessly with the Henry Hollow Loop, the Sedge Hill Trail offers hikers the opportunity to extend their exploration and enjoy additional scenic vistas and natural habitats.
Long Hunter State Park Hiking Trails
Location: Hermitage, TN
Size: 2,600 acres (10.52 sq. km)
Number of Hiking Trails: 10+
Total Length of Hiking Trails: 20+ miles (over 32 km)
Long Hunter State Park is a diverse and scenic area offering over 20 miles of hiking trails, including the popular 2.2-mile (3.5 km) Couchville Lake Loop Trail (direction). The park is divided into three distinct units: Couchville, Baker's Grove, and Bryant Grove, each presenting unique natural features and recreational opportunities.
The entrance of the park is conveniently located a short drive away, making it easily accessible for visitors.
The park is known for its tranquil settings and variety of activities. Hikers can explore the serene Bryant Grove Trail (direction) or engage with nature on the informative Nature Loop Trail.
For those looking to relax and enjoy a day out, the park provides two large picnic shelters near the parking lot, ideal for gatherings.
Day Loop Trail
Location: Long Hunter State Park, Hermitage, TN
Distance: 2.7 miles (4.3 km)
Hiking Duration: 1-2 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Trail type: Loop
The Day Loop Trail, approximately 30 minutes east of Nashville, offers hikers a moderate trek along the scenic shores of J. Percy Priest Lake. With an elevation gain of 262 feet (80 meters), this loop trail presents a delightful blend of natural beauty and physical challenge.
Its path provides ample shade and a peaceful ambiance for nature enthusiasts and casual walkers alike.
The Day Loop Trail is well-maintained, making it accessible for hikers of various skill levels, though some areas may require a bit of careful navigation. Its proximity to Nashville, yet offering an escape into nature, renders it a perfect day-trip destination for families, individuals, and outdoor groups seeking a brief adventure.
Total Length of Hiking Trails: Approx. 1.5 miles round trip
Burgess Falls State Park serves as a spectacular natural showcase, featuring a sequence of four majestic waterfalls cascading along the Falling Water River. The park's central attraction is a moderately strenuous 1.5-mile (2.4 km) round trip hiking trail that provides visitors access to breathtaking views of these cascades culminating in a large pool. The trail itself varies in difficulty, from moderate to strenuous, offering a fulfilling challenge to adventurers.
In addition to its stunning waterfalls, the park also has fishing spots and picnic areas, making it ideal for a day of relaxation and connection with nature. Foot trails guide visitors through varied terrains, leading them to remarkable sights and ensuring a memorable outdoor experience. For additional convenience, the park includes picnic tables and has provisions for camping, inviting guests to extend their stay and immerse themselves fully in the tranquility of the surroundings.
Here, the entrance to the park welcomes all who seek to marvel at the natural splendors it has to offer.
Bledsoe Creek State Park is nestled about 45 minutes northeast of Nashville, presenting a tranquil retreat with its scenic lake, numerous campsites, and miles of inviting hiking trails.
The park is a favored destination for those who appreciate the outdoors, offering serene spots for camping and pathways that meander along the lake's edge and through the surrounding forest areas. Among its highlights, the High Ridge Trail and Shoreline Loop stand out as particularly appealing for hikers seeking relatively easy trails that boast stunning water views.
The park's accessibility is enhanced by its well-maintained entrance, welcoming visitors to explore the natural beauty encompassed within its boundaries. Each trail has been designed to offer unique insights into the local ecosystem, encouraging hikers and campers alike to connect with nature.
Cumberland River Bicentennial Trail
Location: Along the Cumberland River, TN
Distance: 7 miles
Hiking Duration: Approximately 2.5 hours
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Trail Type: Point-to-point
The Cumberland River Bicentennial Trail offers a blend of paved paths (4 miles/6.4 km) and gravel trails (2.5 miles/4 km) that cater to both cyclists and hikers.
This scenic trail winds along the picturesque shores of the Cumberland River, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty of the river's natural landscape. The trail's design is inclusive, supporting multi-use and two-way traffic. Notably, its connections to the Eagle Pass Trail and the Centennial Trail near the historic Sycamore Creek Railroad Trestle add layers of exploration opportunities.
Primarily recognized for its gentle terrain, the Cumberland River Bicentennial Trail appeals to families looking for a leisurely stroll and outdoors enthusiasts engaging in longer bike rides or hikes.
Conclusion
Exploring the best trails in Nashville offers an irresistible invitation to breathe in the fresh air around you. From the calming allure of Lake Radnor to the dramatic beauty of the Fiery Gizzard Trail, each trail promises an extraordinary experience, showcasing the diverse terrain and scenic beauty the Nashville area has to offer.
Whether it's the serene lakeside paths, the rugged beauty of waterfall trails, or the tranquil woodlands that you seek, Nashville's proximity to these natural retreats makes it a prime destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle.
