TOP HIKES TO TAKE NEAR NASHVILLE THIS SPRING/SUMMER
By Cal Henry
Nashville may be known for its music scene and southern hospitality, but it also boasts a range of scenic hiking trails for travelers to explore. Whether you're looking for a peaceful escape into nature or a chance to work up a sweat, the hikes around Nashville are sure to satisfy. In this blog post, we'll highlight some of the top trails in the area and what you can expect to see along the way. So lace up your hiking shoes and let's hit the trails!
Shelby Bottoms Greenway (3 miles from downtown Nashville)
Looking for an outdoor adventure without having to venture too far from the city? Look no further than the Shelby Bottoms Greenway! This fantastic hiking option offers a paved trail that is perfect for hikers of all levels, providing an easy and accessible way to explore the great outdoors.
Beanman Park (13 miles from downtown Nashville)
Beanman Park offers a refreshing break from city life, and with walking trails, it's a popular spot for hikers and nature enthusiasts. The park's location makes it a perfect starting point for exploring the city's attractions and activities! Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike, Beanman Park has something for everyone, making it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the natural beauty of Nashville.
Radnor Lake State Natural Area 9 (10 miles from downtown Nashville)
Radnor Lake State Natural Area boasts over 1,200 acres of preserved land, with a stunning lake at its center. The lake is surrounded by lush forests and is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, owls, and eagles. The park's trails offer stunning views of the surrounding area, making it a popular spot for hiking and birdwatching.
Burgess Falls State Park (75 miles from downtown Nashville)
Burgess Falls State Park is a breathtaking natural area located in Middle Tennessee that offers visitors a glimpse into the beauty of the Cumberland Plateau. Burgess Falls State Park is known for its stunning waterfalls, which cascade down a series of rocky cliffs, offering visitors spectacular views of the surrounding area. The park features several hiking trails that lead to the falls, including the popular Burgess Falls Trail, which is a moderate 1.5-mile hike. The park's other trails offer varying difficulty levels, making it a great spot for hikers of all experience levels!
Cummins Falls (67 miles from downtown Nashville)
Cummins Falls State Park is a hidden gem located in Cookeville, Tennessee, offering visitors a unique opportunity to explore the great outdoors. One of the most notable features of the park is its breathtaking waterfall, which drops 75 feet into a pool below, creating a picturesque scene that is perfect for nature photography and relaxation. Visitors can take a dip in the cool water or simply enjoy the view from the rocky shoreline.
Harpeth State Park (20 miles from downtown Nashville)
Nestled along the banks of the Harpeth River, this 1,000-acre park offers endless opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to explore nature, hike scenic trails, and experience history. One of the park's most popular hiking trails is the Narrows of the Harpeth Trail. This 1.1-mile trail takes hikers through a narrow gorge and past towering cliffs, leading to a breathtaking overlook of the Harpeth River. Harpeth State Park also offers a variety of recreational activities for visitors, including fishing, kayaking, and canoeing on the Harpeth River. The park's river access points provide easy entry for watercraft, and the calm waters make for a relaxing day on the river.
Mossy Ridge Trail (12 miles from downtown Nashville)
Located in Tennessee's Percy Warner Park, this 4.5-mile trail offers hikers an immersive experience in nature. As the name suggests, the trail is covered in lush moss and other greenery, giving it a unique and serene ambiance. One of the highlights of the Mossy Ridge Trail is the panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. From the trail's highest point, hikers can see the Nashville skyline in the distance, making for a perfect photo opportunity.
Rock Island State Park (70 miles from downtown Nashville)
This park offers stunning views of the natural surroundings, including cascading waterfalls and rugged rock formations. One of the most popular attractions in the park is the Great Falls Dam, which creates a powerful waterfall that is a sight to behold. The park offers various viewpoints and trails that allow visitors to get up close and personal with this incredible natural wonder. Visitors can also hike or bike through the park's scenic trails, fish in the river, or even go kayaking or canoeing.