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Is Nashville good for hiking?

Yes, Nashville is excellent for hiking offering diverse trails from scenic lake views at Radnor Lake State Park to challenging forest hikes at Beaman Park making it one of the top spots in Tennessee.

A hiker checking his phone on a wooded trail while hiking near Nashville with a full backpack and camera

Everything You Need to Know About Hiking Near Nashville

When COVID stopped my freelance work I did what any restless local would do. I laced up my boots and started hiking every single trail near Nashville I could find. Over the next year I personally visited, photographed, and walked each one start to finish in different seasons and different weather. That hands-on time turned me into the person friends, family, and neighbors call before any hiking trip.

Picking these 16 trails was not random. I looked for trails that delivered real views, felt safe for different fitness levels, had something genuinely surprising along the way, and were worth driving to more than once. No sponsorships, no brand deals, no trail was included because someone asked me to include it. Every single one made this list because I personally loved it.

These are not the most famous Nashville hikes. They are simply the best ones.

Warner Park

I live just minutes from these trails and know them well – I absolutely love this park! Whether you’re solo hiking, running, or exploring with kids, there’s a trail for everyone, and it generally feels safe thanks to being filled with people enjoying regular walks. However, be warned—car break-ins are common in the parking areas. Always stow away your belongings or take them with you to avoid theft.

Man hiking Percy Warner Park Nashville trail through wooded forest path on a sunny morning

My go-to hike changes with my mood, but these four trails shine:

Harpeth Woods Trail

This shady 2.5-mile loop trail is my weekday go-to. Its rolling hills deliver a great workout while staying entirely shaded. It passes a fascinating rock quarry used back in the 1930s. Access is easy from the main parking lot at the Edwin Warner Park entrance (Hwy 100) – just begin at the Mossy Ridge Trailhead Parking Lot and follow the blue-blazed Harpeth Woods Trail.

Mossy Ridge Trail

Craving hills? The 4.9-mile Mossy Ridge Trail (blazed red) earns its “Buttkicker Trail” nickname! Completely shaded, it traverses open meadows, crosses springs, meanders through gorgeous woodland terrain with rocky portions (grippy footwear essential!), passes beautiful old-growth forest, and rewards you at the top with a small waterfall. Access this beast from the Deep Well Trailhead parking lot (Google Maps it off Hwy 100). Note: Horse-riding & cyclists prohibited.

Hungry Hawk / Little Acorn Trail

For families with young kids, I highly suggest the approximately one-mile loop that connects the Hungry Hawk Trail and Little Acorn Trail, located close to the Nature Center. It’s a leisurely hike filled with tiny adventures kids love – pure nostalgia for me now my teens are taller! Grab a trailhead guide available at the Nature Center for info to easily find your way.

Burch Woods Trail

In Bellevue, Tennessee, Warner Parks’ newest gem is the Burch Woods Trail – a scenic 4.8 km loop shaped like a lollipop. It’s part of the recently opened Burch Preserve, a 250-acre natural area conveniently located just across the street from the main parks. This moderately challenging route (avg 1 h 16 min to complete) offers solitude at quieter times of day, winding through ancient woods and an unforgettable meadow that blooms into honeysuckle fairyland beneath ARBORs (best times: January through November).

Popular for birding, hiking, and serene walking, it passes a cool tunnel under active train tracks—use caution near this spot and old structures. Heads up: Leave pups home—dogs NOT allowed; it’s a nice addition to the Percy and Edwin Warner parks trail system! Want deeper trail secrets? Explore our dedicated Warner Parks Guide for maps, seasonal tips, and hidden gems!

Beaman Park

Beaman Park is my go-to hike when I crave a large, rugged escape still minutes from downtown Nashville. This hidden gem feels worlds away from the city, with its fantastic trails winding past crystal-clear creek beds with smooth rock bottoms perfect for splashing. The 3.2-mile combo of the Sedge Hill Trail and Henry Hollow Loop Trail delivers heart rate-raising hills, a charming bridge that crosses Henry Hollow, and a shallow water crossing (just inch deep in springtime—easy to navigate).

Don’t miss the beautiful wildflowers in bloom!

Beaman Park Nashville hiking trail along rocky creekside path under limestone bluff overhang

Sedge Hill Trail

For first-time visitors to Beaman Park, the Sedge Hill Trail offers an ideal starting point. This accessible path begins right from the Little Marrowbone Road parking area in Joelton. This easy 3.7-km out-and-back route typically takes about 54 minutes to complete, making it popular with casual hikers – expect to encounter others exploring throughout the year.

The trail winds pleasantly through shaded forest areas before connecting to the Beaman Park Nature Center parking lot. While generally accessible, be prepared for some steep, rocky sections that can get slippery after rain – sturdy footwear is highly recommended for this otherwise gentle hike.. But – a serious heads-up: break-ins plague the parking lots. Keep valuables out of sight or take them with you! 

Nature Center Trailhead

Located at 5911 Old Hickory Boulevard in Ashland City, the Nature Center serves as a key starting point for several trails. The yellow-blazed Sedge Hill Trail begins here, weaving its way down toward Henry Hollow through beautiful wooded terrain.

Visitors should note that accessing the full Henry Hollow Loop requires crossing Henry Creek, which can be a fun adventure during drier months but may require careful footing when water levels are higher. The Nature Center itself offers excellent resources for planning your hike.

Creekside Trailhead

For those entering from 4111 Little Marrowbone Road in Joelton, the Creekside Trailhead provides immediate access to some of Beaman Park’s most scenic routes. After passing through the park’s distinctive stone gates, a quick left turn brings you to this popular starting point. From here, the two-mile trail follows the picturesque Henry Creek before gradually rising to reveal stunning ridgetop views. The changing elevation makes this route particularly rewarding for photographers and nature lovers.

Highland Trailhead

Also located at 4111 Little Marrowbone Road, the Highland Trailhead offers more ambitious hiking options. Passing through the same stone gates as the Creekside access but continuing upward, this starting point leads to both the Henry Hollow Loop and the more challenging Laurel Woods Trail. The ridge-top location provides beautiful vantage points right from the start, making it worth the extra drive up the hill even for shorter hikes.

The Laurel Woods Trail

Beginning at the Highland Trailhead, the green-blazed Laurel Woods Trail represents Beaman Park’s most substantial hiking challenge. This 12.5-mile route winds dramatically through hollows and ridges, typically requiring about 6 hours to complete. Hikers looking for a quicker route can take the orange-blazed Shortcut Trail, which cuts the total distance down to 7.5 miles – about a 3.5 hour trek.

This backcountry experience demands preparation – bring ample food, water, and ensure your cell phone is charged. Always hike during daylight hours and inform someone of your plans (trail updates available at 615-862-8580). The park recently introduced a brand-new 12-mile Laurel Woods Loop Trail, while the former Ridgetop Trail has been replaced with a more manageable 6-mile cut-through option.

Things to Know Before You Go

Harpeth River State Park

Best Nashville hiking trails offer spectacular river valley overlooks from limestone cliff formations and rocky ledges Just outside Nashville, Harpeth River State Park features some of the area’s top trails perfect for every outdoor interest – from challenging hikes and family-friendly outings to scenic bike routes and calm paddling adventures. With 6 great trails featured on AllTrails, there’s something for every nature lover—from easy hiking trails perfect for the whole family to more strenuous hikes with elevation gains ranging 4 to 10 meters. Whether you’re planning a full day out or just a quick escape, you’ll find the perfect trail for your next trip, with trails covered in beautiful foliage.

Hidden Lake

This 2-mile (2.1-km) loop takes you through an abandoned 1930s-era site (built 24 years ago), where remnants of an old dance floor and concrete pool still stand—a fascinating glimpse into the heyday of this reclaimed area during yesteryear. The trail begins with a flat stroll along a well-maintained path, passing a weathered bench where you can rest, then continues past a small creek before reaching the hidden lake—the largest in the park—which provides beautiful views overlooking the surrounding woods.

Dogs are welcome on a leash, and it’s generally safe for kids, though some steep embankments near cliffside areas require careful footing to avoid a fall. A quick tip: arrive early in summer to choose the best parking spot among limited cars and enjoy the quiet ambling through this unforgettable piece of history. The complete loop takes about 45 min at an average pace, with mileage markers along the route.

The Narrows at Harpeth River State Park

At just 0.4 miles (0.5 km) roundtrip, this short out-and-back trail packs a punch with towering limestone cliffs and a 19th-century tunnel (constructed in 1800s) once used for iron forging by slaves. The trailhead starts near Bell’s Bridge (off Kingston Road), leading you down steep steps to the riverbeds, where you can explore the narrowest section of the Harpeth River—just 1.6 meters wide in places! Mindful footing is key—some drop-offs are uneven, and signage is limited.

A great tip: print a map beforehand from the park’s website, as the forked paths (like the Pattison fork) can be confusing. This quick hike is perfect for history buffs, with remaining ruins of the pig iron industry and wrought iron artifacts visible. The full-scale tunnel (excavated in the 1820s) once produced iron for the United States, and its entrance still stands today.

Harpeth River Paddle

For a different kind of exploration, this 7.4-km point-to-point paddle along the Harpeth River is perfect for beginners. The put-in is on the southwest side of the HWY 100 bridge, with calm, Class 1 waters that are easy-going and lacking major obstacles—ideal for birding and paddle sports. Dogs are welcome in off-leash areas, and the shallow parts (some just 27 inches deep) make it safe for kids.

A must-know tip: small rapids add fun, but walking your craft may be needed in low water near I-40. Putting in at Coley Davis Access creates a peaceful paddle through shaded riverbanks, with scenic stops like Harris Springs and other natural springs along the way.  Navigation is simple, with deep stretches alternating with shallow riffles.

Harpeth River State Park Fitness Trail

This 0.8-km loop at the south end of the Gossett Tract is a great warm-up before tackling longer trails. The flat, easy-going path (averaging 9 min to complete) features several fitness stations with varying exercises, including step climbs and balance beams. Lacking shade, so bring plenty of water and sunscreen—recommended especially in summer.

Dogs are welcome off-leash in designated areas, and it’s rarely crowded (you’re unlikely to encounter many people), making it perfect for a peaceful walk or run. The track connects to the Storybook Trail for a longer adventure, with trees providing dappled shade in spots.

Things to Know Before You Go

Montgomery Bell State Park

Best Nashville hiking trails showcase pristine lakes with perfect cloud reflections and dense forest landscapes in TN Montgomery Bell State Park is one of my favorite state parks for excellent hiking trails, located just 30 minutes outside Nashville in Dickson. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing dip in the swimming lake, cozy stays in their campgrounds and cabins, or even a round at their golf course and inn, this park has it all. With miles of hiking and horse trails, it can feel confusing for first-time visitors—I always stop by the Visitor Center to buy a detailed trail map for $2 (I keep mine in my glove compartment for easy access).

While the beautiful five-mile circuit connecting Wildcat Trail, Ore Pit Loop, and Spillway Trail makes for excellent hiking, I always find myself drawn back to the Montgomery Bell Trail above all others. This specific path takes you through deep woods where you’ll find historic pits dug into the ground by workers 150 years ago, plus a lovely church and log cabin nestled beside a gorgeous creek and lake. If you want an easier hike, try the Mossy Ridge Trail—it’s less intense than the one at Warner Park.

For a real challenge, tackle the entirety of the Montgomery Bell Loop Trail, a 10.4-mile trail that winds around the perimeter of the park—it’s a must for any hiker’s bucket list. While the trails are generally safe, the Wildcat Trail crosses a few park roads, and I’ve had some sketchy moments when fewer people are nearby, even though I’ve hiked here dozens of times.

Wildcat to Ore Pit Trail

Located just 35 miles from Nashville, with Dickson being the closest town, this 3-mile hiking combo is a must. I always click the interactive map online to check out all the park amenities and nature-based offerings. The state park lodge has a great restaurant, swimming pool, and golf course, all part of its origin as a Depression-era recreation area built by the Works Progress Administration and Civilian Conservation Corps.

A park ranger once gave me a recommendation to explore the western half of the Wildcat Trail, which begins at the Visitor Center, climbs a low ridge through wonderfully dense foliage, and after about 2/3 mile, connects to the 1.5-mile Ore Pit Trail. When I reach the fork, I always bear left to walk the loop in a counter-clockwise direction. You’ll eventually cross a paved road near replica buildings, including the first Cumberland Presbyterian Church and a reverend’s log cabin—the church even hosts Sunday services in the summer!

North Loop Trail

Located in Burns, Tennessee, this 9.5-kilometer loop presents a moderate challenge, typically taking me about 2 hours and 17 minutes to finish. It’s a popular area for birding, hiking, and running, and I often encounter people exploring—though it never feels crowded. Open year-round, it’s beautiful to visit anytime, and dogs are welcome in off-leash areas.

The trail starts with a steady hill climb, then passes through mixed hardwood woodland with clear mile markers and occasional views of the lake, which borders the tranquil Lake Acorn. You’ll cross several streams along the way, and once you come down from the ridge, watch closely—this section is home to active beaver populations.

Montgomery Bell Trail

This 16.7-km loop trail in Burns, Tennessee, is another moderately challenging route, taking me roughly 4 h 11 min to complete. This area draws plenty of outdoor enthusiasts for backpacking trips, camping stays, and day hikes, yet even with regular visitors, it maintains an uncrowded, peaceful atmosphere. Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash.

It’s important to download an offline trail map beforehand, as there are several unmarked connecting trails, and it’s easy to wander off the main path. The stunning locations near water make this hike through beautiful forest worth it, but be prepared for challenging sections with rocks, roots, and significant elevation changes.

Wildcat to Creech Hollow Trails

This 11.3-km loop trail in Burns, Tennessee, is a moderately challenging route that takes me about 2 h 50 min to complete. It’s a popular trail for backpacking, birding, and hiking, but it offers great solitude at quieter times of day. Open year-round, it’s beautiful to visit anytime, and dogs are welcome on a leash.

The trail features multiple creek crossings as it connects the Creech Hollow and Montgomery Bell Trail, hugging the park’s edge with a diverse range of topography—watch out for stumps, boulders, and roots! A sturdy bridge helps you cross a broad old gravel road, leading to a ridge that borders Lake Acorn’s edge. The path descends to a small brook crossing (the first of numerous brook crossings), and the trip rewards you with stunning views of the scenic Creech Hollow Lake, bordered by the lovely Creech Hollow Trail. The uphill portion of the trail continues through towering trees, making it a serene finale.

Spillway Traile

This 1.8-km out-and-back trail in Burns, Tennessee, is an easy route that takes me about 22 min to complete. Ideal for both hiking and casual walks, you’ll often enjoy these paths without crowds—solitude comes easy here. The best times to visit are October through April, and dogs are welcome on a leash. It’s a fun, easy, family-friendly trail, located within Montgomery Bell State Park. While mostly gentle, there are a few challenging areas with rocky terrains, so it’s suggested to wear proper footwear. Winding alongside a gentle creek for much of its path, this trail offers countless chances to relax and immerse yourself in the tranquil atmosphere.

Final Tips for Your Visit

Timberland Park

Best Nashville hiking trails accessible via scenic autumn roads with vibrant fall foliage and forest landscapes Timberland Park has become my favorite hidden gem—a peaceful escape just an easy driving distance from Nashville, tucked along the Natchez Trace Parkway about ten minutes past the Trace’s start near Loveless Cafe. What I love most? Its several hiking trails offer the same beauty as Warner Park but without the crowds. The park’s trails are so well-connected that I often combine them to create a perfect 2-mile hike. My favorite trail, the Big East Fork Reserve Trail, meanders through a beautiful forest so filled with deer that I consistently see them darting past—always a thrilling moment! About a mile in, the woods open to a gorgeous field surrounded by rolling hills, leading to a beautiful pond that’s a wildlife magnet.

Nearby, there’s an interesting greenhouse that looks like something aliens built—quirky and fun. My crowd-free favorite spot? You’ll find two peaceful benches beside the pond—an ideal spot to pause and enjoy your lunch. After circling the pond, the trail heads back into the woods, passing an abandoned hunter’s shack and a small cave with a spring bubbling from the bottom of the hills. The hike finishes with two major climbs—the cardio portion that always gets my heart pumping before returning to the parking area.

I love that this hike never feels crowded, and as someone who often hikes alone, it always feels safe. For trail access, use the Timberland parking lot. As you walk past the visitor center (often staffed by observant employees who monitor activity), you’ll find the trailhead. If it’s your first time on the Big East Fork Reserve Trail, I highly recommend grabbing a map from the front desk of the Visitor’s Center— Because portions of the trail pass through private land, park staff are available to advise hikers on preferred pathways.

Nancy Conway Trail

This 3.2-km loop trail through Franklin, Tennessee presents a modelrately challenging route (I typically finish in 54 minutes) that’s perfect for hiking, mountain biking, or trail running. Visitors rarely encounter crowds while exploring, particularly during May when vibrant greenery appears most lush. The pathway merges the white-blazed Nancy Conway Trail with the orange-marked Judy Hayes Trail, meandering past hilly forests and across open pastures to arrive at a picturesque pond.

Important reminder: since portions traverse private land, pets are permitted only within designated park boundaries. Beginning atop a high ridge and concluding in a farm valley, the trail includes occasional steep sections but primarily features smooth, wide natural surface paths. Don’t miss the historical markers that reveal the area’s 19th-century logging road origins!

Inman Hollow Loop

The 3.5-km loop trail near Fairview, Tennessee, is an easy route I can usually finish in 58 min. Great for hiking or running, it’s unlikely you’ll encounter crowds, and it’s open year-round—beautiful to visit anytime. Just remember to leave pups home, as dogs aren’t allowed (part of the trail passes through private land at Big East Fork Farm, though the farm graciously allows hikers). The remaining trail is serene, with gentle slopes and peaceful woods—a perfect low-key adventure.

Things to Know Before You Go

Preservation Park

Best Nashville hiking trails feature open meadows with dramatic sunbursts and diverse natural landscapes during summer Preservation Park is an amazing new park in Thompson’s Station – about 40 minutes from Nashville but absolutely worth the distance. This hidden treasure blends history with breathtaking scenery on a Civil War battlefield, where the trail winds through a lovely field before climbing to the top of what I call a “Sound of Music-worthy hill”—the panoramic views of stunning Williamson County countryside are unreal! It’s an AMAZING place to photograph, especially at golden hour—I may or may not have twirled like Maria at the summit.

The forest loop offers a shorter hike option, but I prefer the full 3.4-mile route using the AllTrails app to navigate (some points aren’t clearly marked). What I love: this hike feels totally different from other Nashville-area trails—super safe, still undiscovered, and gloriously beautiful. Worth the scenic drive to Thompson’s Station! Pro tip: choose a cooler day (avoid midday sun) or aim for sunset when the light bathes the fields in gold.

Battlefield Trail

This 4.5-kilometer loop offers a moderate challenge (I typically finish in 1 hour 9 minutes) while weaving through historically rich landscapes. The trail begins at the parking area of Preservation Park, where signs detail the Battle of Thompson’s Station (fought March 5, 1863)—a Confederate victory where they captured Union Colonel John Coburn and a thousand men.

As you hike, imagine soldiers marching across these same wide open spaces and hills. The views of the surrounding plains are incredible, especially from July to December when wildflowers or frost accent the landscape. Though popular, I’ve always found solitude here at quieter times of day. Dogs are welcome on leash, and the well-maintained path makes it accessible for most. Don’t miss the interpretive markers—they turn the hike into a living history lesson!

Things to Know Before You Go

Radnor Lake

Outdoor Nashville fun lakeside scene with perfect cloud reflections in calm water surrounded by lush green forest trees

I love hiking at Radnor Lake – it feels worlds away from the city despite being just minutes from downtown Nashville. This gorgeous nature preserve is filled with tons of wildlife and wraps around a beautiful lake, making it my go-to hike for over a decade. Your adventure starts at the Visitor Center’s parking area.

This scenic 3.2-mile circuit follows the lakeshore, linking together both the Lake Trail and South Cove Trail sections. Save the park map photo—trails crisscross, and it’s easy to get sidetracked! The lush forest gives amazing views, and I consistently see deer, turtles, and birds. For a challenging workout, add the hilly 1.65-mile Ganier Ridge Trail (it leaves the main loop and rejoins near South Cove, adding mileage, elevation, and narrower, rockier sections). It’s especially good in summer months since it’s shaded with a nice breeze coming off the water.

Radnor Lake’s magic lies in how it’s tucked secretly within a residential neighborhood—no signs, no tourists, just a pure local escape waiting minutes from the most crowded part of the city. Head straight to the western parking lot (the east one’s much smaller!), and once you move past the dam, the world quiets down into peaceful stillness. Trust me: meander the wide, flat gravel edge, keep your eyes peeled for abundant wildlife, and soak in this blissful oasis—it delivers that serene, achievable magic any time you go.

Things to Know Before You Go

Frequently Asked Questions About the Best Hikes Near Nashville

What Are the Best Hikes Within an Hour of Nashville?

The best hikes within an hour of Nashville are Radnor Lake State Park, Percy Warner Park, and Beaman Park, plus Long Hunter State Park’s Volunteer Trail along Percy Priest Lake for a rewarding half-day escape.

What Are the Best Waterfall Hikes Near Nashville?

The best waterfall hikes near Nashville include Machine Falls just 30 miles away, Cummins Falls dropping 75 feet into an emerald pool, and Burgess Falls passing four cascades before a breathtaking 136-foot finale..

Are There Good Hikes in Nashville?

Yes, Nashville has outstanding summer hiking trails including the Mossy Ridge Trail, Warner Woods Loop, Radnor Lake Trail, Harpeth Woods Trail, and Henry Hollow Loop for every skill level.

What Is the Best Hike in Tennessee?

The best hikes in Tennessee are in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Where to Hike Near Nashville, Tennessee?

The best places to hike near Nashville, Tennessee are along these top local trails.

The Nashville Trails Are Waiting for You

Nashville’s diverse trails offer something for everyone—from the small inclines of Shelby Bottoms to the huge rolling hills of Beaman Park. While not all paths are equally accessible, most feature moderately challenging terrain that the average hiker can complete in about 30-90 min. The area’s strong hiking community includes many supporters who maintain trails and share valuable research on conditions. For those seeking wildlife, top birding spots like Radnor Lake rarely disappoint, with chances to encounter everything from herons to the occasional Gainer groundhog. Remember sturdy shoes for the inclines, and don’t forget your camera—the combination of forests, ridges, and TN vistas makes for stunning photos. Whether you’re after a vigorous climb or peaceful walking paths, Nashville’s trail system delivers memorable outdoor experiences.

Ronan Hale in olive blazer smiling warmly inside a Nashville home with natural window light

Ronan Hale

Rentals & Neighborhoods Writer

Belmont University Business graduate with years of experience in Nashville vacation rental management and relocation consulting. He covers Nashville's neighborhoods with practical knowledge built from actually working inside them.

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