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Nashville’s Top 5 Hiking Trails

Every great city is home to some form of the great outdoors, and for Nashville, that’s hiking. No matter what corner of the city you find yourself in, chances are there is a trail within ten minutes. We’ve rounded up the five best trails in Nashville, so you can get your outdoors fix without having to leave town. 

Here are the five best trails in Nashville.

Day Loop at Long Hunter State Park

Just east of Nashville, Long Hunter State Park’s Day Loop Trail is a 3.9 mile loop that follows a path along Percy Priest Lake for picturesque views. This moderate trail is accessible year-round and dogs are allowed if kept on a leash. Perfect for hiking or running, the Day Loop has the perfect mix of steady trails and steep inclines. If you’re looking for more of a getaway from Nashville, pack up your gear and explore two of the trail’s campsites. Whether you decide to camp, or you simply pack up a picnic lunch overlooking the water, the Day Loop can be a full-day excursion if you need it to be. 

From Hobson Pike take Bakers Grove Lane to the Volunteer trailhead. You’ll access the Day Loop from the Volunteer Trail. 

Harpeth Woods Trail at Edwin Warner Park

On the other side of the city, the Harpeth Woods Trail is West Nashville’s best outdoors spot. This 2.5-mile loop boasts dense forest and is a moderate trail for you and your dog. A year-round favorite among locals, the Harpeth Woods Trail may be busy on the weekends, but is serene and quiet early in the morning, or for a sunset trek.  

Located off Highway 100, you’ll find the Edwin Warner Park parking lot where you can then access the trailhead. 

Hidden Lake Double Loop at Harpeth River State Park

A bit further outside of the city in Belleview, but still accessible within twenty minutes, Harpeth River State Park’s Hidden Lake Double Loop is an easy 1.9-mile loop trail. Surrounding a quiet and peaceful lake, this dreamy trail is ideal for families—and dogs of course! The lake is surrounded by limestone bluffs, but there is one spot (look for the sign!) where you can actually dip your toes into the water. About halfway along the trail you’ll find a bench with the best view of the lake below. 

Take McCrory Lane, just off I-40 to the Hidden Lake parking lot. You’ll have to take the Bluebird Loop trail to the Ridge Loop trail to access the Hidden Lake Double Loop. 

Ganier Ridge And South Cove Trail at Radnor Lake State Park

Located just minutes away from the popular 12 South neighborhood, Radnor Lake is a beautiful park with many trails and picnic tables. The Ganier Ridge And South Cove Trail is a 4.4-mile loop with great views of the lake below. This moderate trail is not only great for hiking, but it is also a popular bird watching spot! Hikers are not allowed to run on these trails, and you’ll need to leave your pup at home, but the trail is well worth it for its wildlife sightseeing and calm energy.

Follow Granny White Pike to Otter Creek Road, and you’ll run right into the Radnor Lake parking lot. 

Bryant Grove Trail at Long Hunter State Park

Another favorite from Long Hunter State Park, the Bryant Grove Trail is easy, but long. Unlike the other trails on our list, this is an out-and-back trail totalling 8 miles. Similar to the Day Loop, this trail follows the shore of Percy Priest Lake to get your water fix. With limestone glades, a wooden bridge above Bryant Grove Creek, birdwatching, and wildflowers, this trail is a scenic hike for those wanting to spend the day escaping from the hustle and bustle of the city. 

From Hobson Pike, follow the entrance to Long Hunter State Park to the Bryant Grove Trailhead. 

Nashville has so much to offer within the city, but when you do need a little escape from it all, check out one of these remarkable and beautiful trails for a serene getaway. And don’t hesitate to make a day of it!

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