Nashville, a prominent travel destination in the United States, extends a diverse array of attractions to its visitors. While globally recognized for its thriving live music scene and lively nightlife, this Tennessee hub also boasts an impressive selection of fantastic restaurants, exceptional local breweries, and captivating museums. Beyond the urban allure, active travelers find themselves equally captivated by the abundant hiking trails that offer a refreshing alternative for experiencing all that "Music City" has to offer.
For those seeking a temporary escape from the bustling crowds of Broadway or simply yearning for a closer connection with nature, Nashville delivers an outstanding solution. Ranging from paved urban greenways to secluded dirt trails, the city and its surrounding areas present a wealth of hiking opportunities. So, lace up your hiking shoes and bring a spirit of adventure, because you’re about to be amazed by the variety and beauty of the trails found here.
Below are our top picks for the best hiking trails in Nashville:
1. Radnor Lake Trail
Radnor Lake State Park is a cherished destination for both locals and tourists. This 1,400-acre nature preserve, nestled south of the city near the affluent Brentwood area, encompasses nearly 8 miles of trails. Among them, the 1.35-mile Lake Trail stands out for its breathtaking scenic vistas and abundant wildlife sightings.
This hike falls into the "short but sweet" category, making it ideal for a quick outdoor excursion. For those seeking a more extended hike, the Lake Trail seamlessly connects with the 1.65-mile Ganier Ridge Trail. The latter introduces more significant elevation gains, offering an invigorating cardiovascular workout. Both trails gracefully navigate the hilly terrain, rewarding hikers with panoramic views and a satisfying physical challenge. The Radnor Lake Trail is a must-try in Nashville.
2. Shelby Bottoms Greenway
The Shelby Bottoms Greenway enjoys a prime location in the trendy East Nashville neighborhood, presenting a convenient opportunity to stretch your legs before indulging in lunch or dinner at a nearby restaurant. The main path is paved and stretches for 5 miles, complemented by an additional 5 miles of dirt trails ready to be explored. The route is considered easy, with minimal elevation changes, making it a popular choice for walkers, joggers, and cyclists. It also offers remarkable access to a surprisingly tranquil natural setting, nestled within the heart of a thriving metropolitan area.
3. Volunteer Trail
Long Hunter State Park is another premier outdoor destination situated a short distance from Nashville. This expansive 2,600-acre natural area graces the shores of Percy Priest Lake, showcasing rocky bluffs and dense forests teeming with oak and hickory trees. Boasting over 20 miles of hiking trails, the park caters to a wide range of preferences and abilities. However, those with a thirst for adventure and abundant energy should certainly consider tackling the Volunteer Trail.
Spanning 6 miles in one direction, completing the entire route in a single day presents a significant challenge. Nevertheless, the trail’s moderate difficulty and captivating scenery – including rocky coves along the lake shore – make it a truly rewarding experience. The trail culminates at a backcountry campsite, which is perfect for backpackers seeking a peaceful overnight adventure far from the city’s hustle and bustle.
4. Mossy Ridge Trail
Percy Warner Park is home to the Mossy Ridge Trail, a 4.5-mile-long hiking route that gracefully ascends and descends Nashville’s surprisingly undulating terrain. While certain sections of the trail are rocky and involve some steep climbs, it is generally regarded as a moderately easy walk or run, particularly for those seeking a good workout. The trail provides ample shade throughout its entire length, a welcome respite during the warmer months.
Given the park’s proximity to the city, the trail can become quite busy at times. However, the scenic views and enchanting setting contribute to a relaxing walk, even when sharing the path with fellow hikers. For those seeking an extended adventure, adding another 2 miles to your hike by starting on the Cane Connector Trail, located near the Warner Park Nature Center, is a worthwhile option.
5. Narrows of the Harpeth
A half-hour drive west of Nashville unveils Harpeth River State Park, a picturesque destination offering spectacular views of its namesake waterway. The park is home to one of the oldest man-made tunnels in the country and serves as a popular spot for kayakers and canoeists. Additionally, it features several excellent hiking trails, with the Narrows of the Harpeth standing out as a particularly enticing option.
This 1.1-mile out-and-back trail may not overwhelm with its distance, but it certainly captivates with its engaging points of interest along the way. These include the aforementioned tunnel and breathtaking views from atop a rocky bluff. The hike is relatively easy and doesn’t take long to complete, but you’ll undoubtedly want to linger at the summit to soak in the impressive scenery. Early risers should consider heading to the trail before dawn to witness the sunrise over the surrounding vistas.
6. Harpeth Woods Trail
Nashville’s Edwin Warner Park is another excellent destination for visitors seeking outdoor experiences while exploring the city. The park boasts nearly 20 miles of trails, most of which tend to be less crowded than those in nearby Percy Warner Park. While all of these walking paths offer unique features, the Harpeth Woods Trail is particularly appealing.
This 2.5-mile loop follows a segment of the famous Natchez Trace, a historic travel corridor used by Native Americans for centuries. The route takes hikers over wooden footbridges, along the banks of a fast-flowing river, and up to towering bluffs that overlook a nearby rock quarry. The lush forest provides ample shade, opportunities to spot wildlife, and a particularly stunning display of seasonal foliage during the fall months.
7. Stones River Greenway
This mixed-use, paved trail is another highlight of Nashville’s popular greenway system. The route extends for 5.7 miles, showcasing lovely scenery throughout, including a segment that runs along its namesake river. Given its location in the heart of the city, it’s a popular path for casual walkers, as well as runners and cyclists seeking a workout.
The trail includes a few steep inclines, but is otherwise an easy walk. The smooth, paved surface makes it highly accessible for anyone looking to spend time in the outdoors, including those in wheelchairs. A variety of wildlife can be observed along the route, with frequent sightings of whitetail deer. Shade is also plentiful, providing a welcome respite from the often-harsh Nashville sun.
8. Beaman Park Ridgetop Trail
Located on the northwest edge of town, Beaman Park is a fantastic outdoor playground for active locals and visitors. This nature preserve sits on the Highland Rim, a region characterized by steep hills, towering bluffs, and dense forests. If you enjoy immersing yourself in a wilderness setting, this park won’t disappoint. And because it’s a bit more remote than other parks in the area, it’s often less crowded.
Without a doubt, the best hiking path in Beaman Park is the Ridgetop Trail. This out-and-back route covers approximately 4.2 miles and is moderately challenging due to the rugged nature of the terrain. The trail is well-marked and easy to follow, leading hikers through a lush hickory forest that feels much more isolated from civilization than it actually is.
9. Bryant Grove Trail
While the Bryant Grove Trail is an out-and-back hike that covers more than 8 miles, it is relatively flat and easy. The route meanders through the cedar forests found in Long Hunter State Park, providing ample shade for most of the walk. Occasionally, the path wanders within sight of nearby Percy Priest Lake, offering hikers an enticing glimpse of its inviting waters.
This trail is perfect for anyone seeking a long hike that isn’t especially demanding. The forest setting creates a serene escape from Music City, with opportunities to spot wildlife along the way. Due to its length, the Bryant Grove Trail is usually not overly crowded, offering a pleasant bonus for those seeking a bit of solitude.
These trails represent our picks for the best hikes within close proximity of Nashville. Depending on your accommodation location within the city, each of these destinations is accessible within approximately 30 minutes or so. This ease of access allows you to effortlessly integrate time in nature into your itinerary while still taking full advantage of everything this vibrant metropolis has to offer.
