is there good hiking in nashville

Exploring Nashville: Best Hiking Trails Await

By David MillerMarch 12, 2026

Nestled in the heart of Tennessee, Nashville might be renowned for its vibrant music scene and delicious cuisine, but did you know it also offers an abundance of hiking trails that cater to all skill levels? If you're an outdoor enthusiast, you'll be pleased to find that there are plenty of opportunities to explore the beautiful natural landscapes surrounding Music City.

With numerous state parks, nature preserves, and greenways within a short drive from downtown, Nashville's hiking scene is diverse and expansive. From leisurely strolls to challenging treks, you're sure to find a trail that suits your interests and fitness level. So, let's dive into some of the best hiking spots in and around Nashville.

Urban Trails and Greenways

For those looking to stay within the city limits, Nashville boasts an impressive network of urban trails and greenways. These well-maintained paths offer convenient access to outdoor recreation without having to venture too far from the city center.

Best Trails for Hiking Near Nashville (Waterfalls, Forests & Views)

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23K reactions · 3.6K shares | Why is no one talking about these places?! Tennessee isn’t just music and BBQ — it’s a waterfall-chasing, trail-loving paradise that deserves way more hype. Most people visit Nashville but totally overlooked places like these just under 2 hours away: 🌊 Scott’s Gulf Wilderness (2 hrs) 🟢 Virgin Falls Trail: 9 miles RT to a surreal waterfall that flows into a cave 🟢 Pro tip: Start early, bring enough water and wear good hiking shoes. The trail is remote and rugged 🟢 Don’t miss the Blue Hole, Big Branch Falls, and Big Laurel Falls along the way 🌄 Fall Creek Falls State Park (2 hrs) 🟢 One of the tallest waterfalls east of the Mississippi at 256 ft 🟢 Base of the Falls Trail: 0.8 mi RT but very steep — bring good shoes 🟢 Best time: Late spring or after rai Waterfalls Near Nashville Tn, Nashville Waterfall, Waterfall Hikes Near Nashville, Nashville Tennessee Waterfalls, Tennessee Waterfall Road Trip, Nashville Waterfalls, Tennessee Waterfall Locations, Nashville Tennessee Hiking, Nashville Hikes

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State Parks and Nature Preserves

Venturing just beyond the city limits, you'll discover numerous state parks and nature preserves that offer expansive hiking trails with stunning views and abundant wildlife. These locations provide a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city.

One popular destination is Percy Warner Park, which features over 9 miles of hiking trails that cater to various skill levels. The park offers beautiful views of the surrounding countryside and is home to a diverse array of plant and animal species.

Radnor Lake State Park

Radnor Lake State Park is another must-visit spot for hikers, offering 6 miles of trails that wind through a hardwood forest and along the shoreline of the picturesque Radnor Lake. The park is known for its excellent wildlife viewing opportunities, with frequent sightings of various bird species, as well as white-tailed deer and beavers.

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23K views · 3.4K reactions | TN’s prettiest state park Comment “getaway” to receive a link to our Tennessee Airbnb collection! If you’re planning a trip to Tennessee, this is one state park worth building your itinerary around. Only 1.5 hours from Nashville, this relatively new state park is home to many beautiful waterfalls and hiking trails. Here’s a quick planning guide to 📍Scott’s Gulf Wilderness State Park. 🥾 Hiking & Trails 🟢 Virgin Falls Trail: ~9 mi RT, strenuous, river crossings required 🟢 Lost Creek–Sherwood Loop: ~4–5 mi RT, moderate, less traffic 🟢 Big Creek Rim Trail: ~3 mi RT, moderate, overlooks + forest terrain 🟢 Trails are rugged and minimally developed, expect rocks, roots, and elevation change 🌊 What Makes It Iconic 🟢 Deep limestone gorge carved by the Caney Fork watershed 🟢 Underground streams + seasonal waterfalls 🟢 Remote, backcountry feel with very limited infrastructure 🟢 No developed overlooks, everything is earned on foot! 🕒 Best Time to Visit 🟢 Spring (Mar–May): peak waterfalls, cooler temps 🟢 Fall (Oct–early Nov): foliage + lower humidity 🟢 Summer hikes are possible but hot and humid, start early 🟢 Avoid after heavy rain due to slick rock and creek crossings 🚗 Access & Parking 🟢 About 70–75 miles east of Nashville (~1.5 hr drive) 🟢 Main access via Sparta / Walling area 🟢 Parking areas are small and unpaved, arrive early on weekends 🟢 No gas, food, or services nearby. Go prepared and pack snacks/food. ⚠️ Pro Tips 🟢 Wear trail shoes with good grip (rock + water crossings) 🟢 Bring a GPS or download offline maps, cell service is unreliable 🟢 Pack more water than you think you need! 🟢 Leave No Trace is critical, this is a true wilderness park Have you ever explored Scott’s Gulf? | The Spinning Atlas | Facebook

The 8 Best Waterfall Hikes Near Nashville

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Among the trails, the Ridgetop Trail is particularly noteworthy, offering a challenging but rewarding hike with scenic overlooks of the lake and surrounding valley.

Harpeth River State Park

If you prefer a hike with a side of history, check out Harpeth River State Park. This park offers over 20 miles of trails that traverse diverse habitats, including river bluffs, hardwood forests, and open meadows. Keep an eye out for remnants of the park's rich Civil War history as you explore the trails.

The Natural Bridge Trail is a popular choice, leading hikers to a 25-foot stone arch that once served as a stagecoach stop during the 19th century.

In addition to these exceptional hiking destinations, Nashville's surrounding area offers numerous other parks and preserves, each with its unique charms and challenges. From the stunning views at Cedars of Lebanon State Park to the serene beauty of Bledsoe Creek State Park, there's always more to explore in and around Music City.

So, the next time you find yourself in Nashville, don't overlook the fantastic hiking opportunities that await you. Lace up your boots, hit the trails, and discover the natural side of this vibrant city. And who knows, you might just find that Nashville's hikes are as unforgettable as its famous music and barbecue.