Nashville, Tennessee, USA-hiking-areas

Lace Up Your Boots: Best Hiking Trails in Nashville

Nashville isn’t just known for its vibrant music scene and delicious hot chicken. Surrounded by rolling hills and lush forests, Music City offers fantastic hiking opportunities for all skill levels. Here are some of the best trails to explore:

For Stunning Views:

  • Radnor Lake State Natural Area: Just minutes from downtown, Radnor Lake boasts 1.33 miles of paved accessible trails and over 6 miles of natural surface trails circling a serene lake teeming with wildlife. Perfect for birdwatching and enjoying breathtaking sunset views.
  • Long Hunter State Park: Situated along the shores of Percy Priest Lake, this park offers diverse trails ranging from easy lakeside strolls to challenging climbs with panoramic vistas. The 12-mile Volunteer Trail is a popular choice for experienced hikers.

For Waterfall Wonders:

  • Cummins Falls State Park: While a bit further afield (about 1.5 hours from Nashville), Cummins Falls is worth the drive. Hike down to the cascading waterfall, perfect for swimming and picnicking during warmer months.
  • Burgess Falls State Park: Another gem located about 1 hour away, Burgess Falls features four stunning waterfalls accessible via a moderate 1.5-mile loop trail.

For Urban Escapes:

  • Shelby Bottoms Greenway: This scenic greenway offers over 8 miles of paved trails winding along the Cumberland River. Ideal for walking, jogging, and biking, with opportunities to spot local wildlife.
  • Percy Warner Park: Located within the city limits, Percy Warner Park boasts over 2600 acres of trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. Explore the popular Iroquois Trail or venture off the beaten path for a more secluded experience.

Tips for Hiking in Nashville:

  • Check weather conditions before you go. Nashville summers can be hot and humid, so dress accordingly and bring plenty of water.
  • Wear appropriate footwear. Hiking boots are recommended for most trails, especially those with uneven terrain.
  • Be aware of wildlife. Snakes, deer, and other animals inhabit the parks. Maintain a safe distance and never feed wild animals.
  • Leave no trace. Pack out all trash and respect the natural environment.

Enjoy exploring Nashville’s vibrant hiking scene!