Lately, I’ve been doing less hiking and more wandering.

After losing my dad, the trail I’ve been walking isn’t marked by switchbacks or summits—it’s marked by quiet moments, being near water, and moving slowly.

Right now, this is what my version of trekking looks like.

Every May, the town of Franklin, Tennessee comes alive with one of the most anticipated events of the season—the Franklin Rodeo. As one of the longest-running rodeos in the country, this annual event has been a beloved local tradition since 1949.

Held at the Williamson County Ag Expo Park, the rodeo brings together professional cowboys and cowgirls from across the country to compete in classic events like bull riding, barrel racing, steer wrestling, and bronc riding. It’s sanctioned by the PRCA (Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association), ensuring top-tier talent and thrills for the crowd.

But the Franklin Rodeo is more than just a sporting event—it’s a celebration of community, heritage, and Southern hospitality. 

Families, locals, and visitors alike come out to enjoy the high-energy performances, live music, rodeo clowns, kids’ events, and classic rodeo fare (yes, funnel cakes and sweet tea included).

Proceeds from the event support local charities and service organizations, adding even more heart to the hooves.

Whether you’re a longtime attendee or a first-time visitor, the Franklin Rodeo offers a uniquely Tennessee blend of tradition, adrenaline, and community pride—making it a can’t-miss moment each spring.

Back on the Trail — Slowly, Gently

After six months away, I returned to the trail.

I chose Sycamore Falls—a familiar path, one I’ve walked many times before. It felt like the right place to take my first hiking steps since losing my dad. No pressure to perform or summit. Just the comfort of a place that already knew me.

I went with one intention: to put my feet in running water. I felt called to it—like the movement, the flow, the cleansing quality of the stream might offer something I couldn’t find anywhere else. And it did. The coldness against my skin reminded me I’m alive, still connected to this earth, still moving forward even in the stillness.

The trail greeted me gently. The rustle of leaves, the filtered light, the steady rhythm of my steps—it all felt like a quiet reunion. I didn’t go far, and I didn’t need to. This wasn’t about distance. It was about presence.

This hike marked something tender and true: a soft return. 

Not to who I was before, but to the part of me that still finds peace in the woods.

Even when lost, I’m guided.

August 2024 | Harpeth River kayaking at Tip-A-Canoe, 5 miles, easy, 30 minutes west of Nashville

I’ve kayaked the Harpeth River via Tip-A-Canoe twice. Both times were an absolute joy. I typically opt for the put-in point of Kingston Ballpark, which is 2.5 hours about 5 miles of paddling (really floating, the river will push you most of the way). 

The Harpeth is typically a low river, making it easy for kids and families to feel comfortable paddling. We did come across several snakes on this particular day, some of which were poisonous, so keep an eye out. 

There were a few places we had to get out and push our kayaks out of low water. I’d say at its deepest, this path is only about 3-4’ deep in the Summer. 

August 2024 | Deer Trail, 0.8 miles, easy, 30 minutes east of Nashville

The Deer Trail begins and ends at a field of Blazing Star wildflowers. This is the perfect site to view butterflies in the Summer near Nashville. Depending on the week you can see large swallowtail butterflies by the dozens. 

This trail is less than a mile, easy, and perfect for families and kids.

July 2024 | Ogilvie Trail at Peacock Hill Nature Center, 45 minutes south of Nashville

This brand new Williamson County Park is located in College Grove, TN, right outside Franklin. The trails aren’t on AllTrails just yet but there are about 5 miles of hiking trails and nice hills to climb on the property. 

The park is open daily from 8-6 PM. The rangers are offering a variety of programs, including butterfly hikes throughout the summer. Be sure to check out these free, family friendly programs.

June 2024 | Cades Cove Loop Road at Great Smoky Mountains National Park, 3.5 hours east of Nashville

This 11 mile trail is paved and accessible via car, bike, or walking. During the Summer months, the road is closed to vehicles so plan accordingly. The trail is a loop and features rolling fields under the Smoky Mountains. There is a lot of wildlife to be seen, including bear, elk, deer, and turkey.

The speed limit is 20 MPH but traffic moves very slowly. I drove an average of 5 MPH and it took about 2 hours to complete the loop. There are pull offs along the route so you can get out, hike, take photos, etc.

The Franklin Rodeo is an annual event held over three days in Franklin, TN. The rodeo features a variety of events - bronco riding, bull riding, barrel racing, and acrobatic horse riding.

The event is held each May and tickets are sold in advance. The event does sell out so mark your calendars to purchase tickets weeks prior.

May 2024 | Hope Botanical Garden, 1.5 hours south of Nashville

Hope Botanical Garden is a small garden outside of Leoma, TN, about 1.5 hours south of Nashville. The property boasts a hedge maze, Japanese garden, and lots of beautiful flowers. Entry is only $5 and they many events throughout the year.

Williamson County Parks & Recreation offers some phenomenal programming, most of which is free. In April, I had the privilege of participating in forest bathing. 

Forest bathing originated in Japan in the 1980’s. After jobs were moved from rural to urban centers, there was an increase in diagnosed stress, anxiety, depression, and high blood pressure. As a result, forest bathing became a prescribed ritual, proven to reduce stress, boost immunity, and improve overall wellbeing. 

A group of about 20 people gathered at Timberland Park in Franklin to participate in forest bathing, led by a certified guide. 

We started by choosing a rock, sizable and with some weight and then moved deeper into the forest where we engaged all of our sense - sound, sight, smell, touch, and taste - through guided meditation. 

Guided deeper into the forest, we paired off and played a game of Simon Says, using our imagination to explore the forest and engage in play before journaling about our experiences. Lastly we gathered in a circle for a tea ceremony to close our time together. 

Our guide created such a beautiful journey, full of exploration, play, and connection with self. I left feeling lighter, calmer, more grounded. 

I’m so grateful for local programming that allows me to experience new and exciting opportunities. 

April 2024 | Benton Falls Trail, Cherokee National Forest, 3 miles, easy, 3 hours southeast of Nashville

This trail requires a $3 per car fee that can be paid via cash or electronically through the QR code at the trailhead. There are restrooms at the trailhead as well.

There are several trails off this parking lot that are good for hiking, biking, and trail running. The trail is easy and almost entirely flat until the walk down to the bottom of the falls. 

The fog on this particular day made my photos extra moody - which I loved.

April 2024 | Falling Water Falls Trail, Justin P. Wilson Cumberland Trail State Park, 0.3 miles, easy, 2.5 hours east of Nashville

This very short trail has very limited parking at the trailhead and is located inside a residential area. I was able to hear the waterfall but not actually see the fall because of the dense foliage. Perhaps it’s more visible at other times of the year.

April 2024 | Peacock Hill Nature Park, 42 minutes south of Nashville

This park is relatively new to Williamson County Parks and Recreation. They’ve begun offering programming and in April I participated in a free, guided, wildflower hike around the pond. The trail we walked was short (less than a mile) and easy. There were benches available to rest and take in the scenery. There are approximately 5 miles of trails on the property, in varying difficulties. Trail maps are available at the visitors center (which by the way - is a gorgeous building with excellent restrooms).

March 2024 | Black Mountain Trail at Cumberland Trail State Park, 8.2 miles, moderate, 2 hours east of Nashville

This trail is labeled as 8.2 miles in AllTrails but several of the reviews put it at closer to 9 miles. In full transparency, I only made it 6 miles. 

The trail is rated moderate but the steady incline in elevation made it a bit harder for me than other moderately rated trails. I didn’t make it to the lookout but the photos from other hikers look beautiful. I did see several early wildflower blooms, butterflies, and the cave. 

Warning: the cave is closed due to white nose syndrome that affects the bats who live in the cave.

March 2024 | Tennessee Tulip Festival at Lucky Ladd Farms, 45 minutes southeast of Nashville

Lucky Ladd Farms hosts the Tennessee Tulip Festival annually. The Tennessee Tulip Festival at Lucky Ladd Farms is a vibrant spring celebration near Nashville, showcasing over 100 varieties of tulips amidst more than 700,000 bulbs. Visitors can enjoy pick-your-own tulip fields, perfect for photography enthusiasts seeking picturesque shots or those looking to hand-pick their personalized bouquet. With a brief bloom period of 3-4 weeks, guests are encouraged to purchase admission tickets in advance to explore the colorful fields and enjoy additional attractions at the farm. 

March 2024 | Night Hike at Couchville Cedar Glade State Natural Area, 0.9 miles, easy, 30 minutes east of Nashville

Long Hunter State Park, located very near Couchville Cedar Glade State Natural area, offered a guided night hike of an approximately 1 mile, easy trail. Long Hunter offers excellent programming, oftentimes for free or with a minimal fee. The fee for this hike was $5. 

There always something magical about being allowed to remain in the park after hours/after dark. We saw deer, salamanders, and heard tons of frogs croaking in the night.

Our guide was very informative and friendly. I’ve been on several program hikes with her and have absolutely loved them all. 

March 2024 | Debord Falls at Frozen Head State Park, 1.2 miles, easy, 2.5 hours east of Nashville

The Debord Falls trail is a nice, well marked trail along a steady stream. Parking is limited and the park does close the road up to the trail when the lot is full. 

This trail is easy - perfect for kids and dogs. Debord Falls has a very nice, new staircase down to the base of the falls so you can get an excellent look from the bottom.

I highly recommend going on down the trail to Emory Gap Falls (featured in another post), which features a larger cascade waterfall. 

March 2024 | Emory Gap Falls at Frozen Head State Park, 2.4 miles, easy, 2.5 hours east of Nashville

The Emory Gap Falls trail is a nice, well marked trail along a steady stream. Parking is limited and the park does close the road up to the trail when the lot is full. 

This trail is easy - perfect for kids and dogs. This trail aligns with another trail, Debord Falls trail. You’ll come to Debord Falls first and if you continue down the trail, you’ll reach Emory Gap Falls. 

Emory Gap Falls features a cascade style falls. It’s recommended to go after a large rain for best views.

March 2024 | Angel Falls at Big South Fork National River, 4.0 miles, easy, 2.5 hours east of Nashville

Big South Fork National River is a sight to see! The Angel Falls trail follows the river, which is a beautiful milky green color, to a small falls at the end of the trail. This trail is rated easy and perfect for kids and pets. 

The first signs of waterfalls and wildflowers were present while I was visiting. The rhododendrons are about to pop on this trail. Don’t miss this on this spring!

March 2024 | Sycamore Falls at South Cumberland State Park, 2.1 miles, moderate, 2 hours southeast of Nashville

South Cumberland State Park is a very popular place for hiking, biking, camping, and swimming. The Sycamore Falls trail will have you feeling like you’re in the Smokey’s without the crowds and drive from Nashville. 

This trail is alongside a heavy stream with several waterfalls along the way, leading to the largest waterfall on the trail, Sycamore Falls. This trail is rated moderate but is quite flat overall. The moderate portions require navigating some inclines and root heavy areas. 

March 2024 | Denny Cove Waterfall Trail at South Cumberland State Park, 2.7 miles, moderate, 2 hours southeast of Nashville

South Cumberland State Park is a very popular place for hiking, biking, camping, and swimming. The trails at Denny Cove offer rock climbing, overlooks, and a waterfall. I suggest combing the waterfall trail with the overlook trail I previously posted about. 

The waterfall trail is on the harder end of moderate, to me. It is extremely rocky, making it challenging to navigate without turning an ankle or falling. The waterfall however, worth it. Standing at approximately 70’ tall, the cascade looked absolutely stunning the day I visited. 

March 2024 | Denny Cove Overlook Trail at South Cumberland State Park, 1.2 miles, easy, 2 hours southeast of Nashville

South Cumberland State Park is a very popular place for hiking, biking, camping, and swimming. The trails at Denny Cove offer rock climbing, overlooks, and a waterfall. The overlook trail is short, easy, and offers a beautiful view. I recommend continuing down to the Denny Cove Waterfall Trail while you’re onsite (I’ll be posting about that soon). 

February 2024 | Rutledge Falls Trail, 0.3 miles, easy, 1.25 hours southeast of Nashville

This trail is a very popular swimming hole in warmer months. I’ve tried to enjoy this waterfall twice before and it’s just been so crowded. It’s been on my list to hike in the winter for a while and I had it all to myself today.

This trail is located near Manchester, TN. The trail is rated easy, though to get down to the falls is very rocky and a bit of a climb.

Today I did discover a trail to the left that takes you down stream to a very quiet area which I enjoyed greatly. 

This trail is located on private property. Parking is available at Rutledge Falls Baptist Church. Please be respectful of the property and remain on trails.

February 2024 | Piney Creek Falls at Fall Creek Falls State Park, 0.6 miles, moderate, 2 hours east of Nashville

This trail is located near Spencer, TN and is part of the Fall Creek Falls State Park. If you’ve hiked Fall Creek Falls, you know how crowded it can be. Rather than hiking to the bottom to view the falls, I recommend combining this trail and the Gorge Overlook & Woodland Trail in a previous post. The combo allows you to see several waterfalls and are in much less crowded areas. The two trails are about 10 minutes apart and off the same road. 

The trail is rated moderate but it’s so short, it’s not a bad trek at all. There is a suspension bridge that, per the map, was supposed to lead to a ridge trail to view Piney Creek Falls from another angle. I wasn’t able to find where the trail connected. I did hike below the bridge, along the creek, and it’s a quiet spot for a picnic. 

Restrooms are located at the visitors center. There are no facilities at the trailhead. Parking is limited.

February 2024 | Gorge Overlook & Woodland Trail, 3.1 miles, moderate, 2 hours east of Nashville

This trail is located near Spencer, TN and is part of the Fall Creek Falls State Park. If you’ve hiked Fall Creek Falls, you know how crowded it can be. Rather than hiking to the bottom to view the falls, I recommend combining this trail and the Piney Creek Falls trail in a previous post. The combo allows you to see several waterfalls and are in much less crowded areas. The two trails are about 10 minutes apart and off the same road. 

Though the trail is rated as moderate, it’s pretty mild and mostly flat. The view of the falls from the top is aboslutely magical and there is an option to extend the hike to explore the bottom of the falls. I’ve hiked to the bottom before and due to crowding, I didn’t enjoy it at all. I much preferred this view and experience. 

February 2024 | Prater Place & Hemlock Falls Trail, 6 miles, moderate, 2 hours east of Nashville

This trail is located near Spencer, TN and is part of the Fall Creek Falls State Park. If you’ve hiked Fall Creek Falls, you know how crowded it can be. This trail is nearby and not as frequented. In fact, I was the only person on the trail when I visited.

The trail is rated moderate but only about a half mile is moderate, the rest of the trail is very flat. It is rocky so be mindful of your step along the way. 

There was also an active bear warning at the trailhead. I didn’t see any signs of bears, but be bear aware and prepared. If you need help on being prepared, check out the link in my bio and navigate to “Trekking Gear”. 

There were a few caves along the way to the waterfall. The actual waterfall is beautiful and would be a great swimming hole in warmer weather.

February 2024 | West Haven West Slope & East Slope, 5.2 miles, moderate, 35 minutes south of Nashville

This trail is located in the West Haven neighborhood of Franklin, TN. Parking is limited to the street right in front of the trailhead. Be mindful to not block anyone’s driveway.

I’ve hiked this trail twice - once in the summer and once in the winter - and I enjoyed it both times. The trail is moderate and will get your heart rate up for sure. 

Be sure to not miss the swings at the top of the trail and the pond at the end (if you go counter clockwise). 

This trail is an oasis in the midst of a bustling neighborhood and a gem right in Franklin.

January 2024 | Asian Lantern Festival presented by the Chattanooga Zoo | 2.25 hours east of Nashville

The Asian Lantern Festival features over 30 lantern displays celebrating Asian culture.

January 2024 | Mouse Creek Falls via Big Creek Falls | 4 miles, easy | 4 hours east of Nashville, TN

Parking is plentiful here and there are restrooms at the trailhead. This trail is quite flat, making it easy and accessible. The hike out to the waterfall is along a river. The sound of the water rushing by is peaceful.

The waterfall was rushing during my visit. There had been recent snow in the area, which I’m sure contributed to so much rushing water.

I encountered a few people on the trail but it wasn’t overly crowded. Keep in mind that bears and other wildlife encounters are very common in the park. Be prepared with any safety protocol you’ll need. If you need more information on safety gear click here. 

P.S. If you’re looking for a great spot to stay near the park, Townsend, TN is a small, mountain town that’s very welcoming of tourists. I recommend eating at Dancing Bear Lodge (upscale dining) or Apple Valley Mountain Village (coffee, ice cream, outdoor gear, and restaurant).

January 2024 | Cataract Falls at Great Smoky Mountains National Park | 1.1 miles, easy | 4.25 hours east of Nashville, TN

Parking is plentiful here, as this trail leaves from the Sugarlands Visitor Center Parking. The visitors center features rangers for Q&A, park info, parking pass kiosk, and restrooms.

The trail is very flat and is stroller accessible (if you have a stroller that’s made for rugged terrain, there are some roots to cross). The hike out to the waterfall is along a creek. I just love walking along flowing water. The sound is so relaxing. 

This trail is quite crowded since it’s right next to the visitors center but everyone was very respectful of getting photos/video while I was there. 

The waterfall was rushing during my visit. There had been recent snow in the area, which I’m sure contributed to so much rushing water.

P.S. If you’re looking for a great spot to stay near the park, Townsend, TN is a small, mountain town that’s very welcoming of tourists. I recommend eating at Dancing Bear Lodge (upscale dining) or Apple Valley Mountain Village (coffee, ice cream, outdoor gear, and restaurant).

January 2024 | Rainbow Falls Trail at Great Smoky Mountains National Park | 6 miles, moderate | 4.5 hours east of Nashville, TN

There’s a lot of parking at this waterfall but it fills up quickly. I arrived before daylight to get geared up and I was the only person at the trailhead but coming back down the mountain, there was a wait for parking. There are restrooms at the trailhead as well. 

The trail meanders along a flowing creek, which was lovely. It was snowing the day I hiked and the fresh coat of snow was just beautiful. I was also the first person on the trail that day so I could to see all the tiny animal prints throughout the trail (wolf/coyote, bear, and bird).

This trail is rated moderate on AllTrails. I’d rate it between moderate and hard. There is a 1,300 foot elevation gain. The temperature drop in the winter for that elevation made my trekking pace slow. The trail was also slick in places where running water was frozen.

I chose to stop at the lower part of Rainbow Falls (5 mile mark). If you pursue going to the top, you’ll cross a flowing creek and two additional wooden bridges. I chose to stop because of how slick the rocks were in the creek I’d have to cross to continue. 

If you trek this in winter, you’ll absolutely want to layer up. The temperature was about 32 degrees at the trailhead at 7:00 AM but at the top I’d estimate the temp had dropped to closer to 25-27 degrees. 

P.S. If you’re looking for a great spot to stay near the park, Townsend, TN is a small, mountain town that’s very welcoming of tourists. I recommend eating at Dancing Bear Lodge (upscale dining) or Apple Valley Mountain Village (coffee, ice cream, outdoor gear, and restaurant).

November 2023 | Standing Stone Lake Trail at Standing Stone State Park, 5.13 miles, moderate, 1.75 hours northeast of Nashville, TN

Don’t forget to stamp your Tennessee State Park Passport and use the restroom at the visitor center when you arrive. 

This trail is longer than reported on AllTrails. Instead of 4.3 miles, it’s 5.13 and the moderate rating felt appropriate. There are a few ups and down, and stairs to climb, but once up on the ridge, the trail evens out and is quite easy. 

The trail is quite narrow in places, 6” or less, and in some places it was washed, making it more technical to navigate, but this trail is doable and I’d highly recommend it.

I especially enjoyed that the park was not crowded - I didn’t encounter anyone else on my hike. The park was well insulated from outside noise as well. 

Standing Stone Lake is absolutely stunning. It’s a beautiful vibrant blue and there were still some golden leaves hanging on from Fall. 

November 2023 | Songbird Trail at Norris Dam State Park, 2.5 miles, easy, 3.25 hours east of Nashville, TN

Don’t forget to stamp your Tennessee State Park Passport and use the restroom at the visitor center when you arrive. The visitors center also overlooks the Norris Dam.

This trail is rated easy and is made up of small gravel or pavement, making it very accessible for wheelchairs or strollers. The park has several parking lots so if you don’t find parking at the trailhead, there’s overflow parking just down the road. 

This park was busy but quiet and peaceful. There were many people walking with their kids and dogs. The trail makes a loop right near Norris Lake. 

You can hear lots of birdsongs here so don’t forget to use your Merlin Bird ID app to identify which birds are present. Additionally, during the warmer months, there is a large pollinator garden at the far end of the trail that I imagine would be absolutely bustling with bees and butterflies. 

November 2023 | Triple Falls Trail on Bruce Creek at Cove Lake State Park, 1.9 miles, moderate, 3.25 hours east of Nashville, TN

Don’t forget to stamp your Tennessee State Park Passport and use the restroom at the visitor center when you arrive. 

This trail is rated moderate on AllTrails but I would rate it as hard. In the first half mile you’ll see a creek and small waterfall. It hadn’t rained recently so the fall wasn’t flowing as well as it would be in rainier parts of the year.

The rest of the hike was incredibly difficult and even dangerous in some areas. The path is not well marked and people have carved shortcuts up to the top. I saw several people slip and fall coming down. I fell twice coming down. 

This trail is straight up past the waterfall so if you have bad knees, it’s probably not the trail for you. 

The lookout at the top was nice in the sense that you could see for a long ways. Unfortunately, the leaves were mostly brown when I was there so the view wasn’t as pretty as it likely would have been at other times of the year. 

This trail is absolutely not kid friendly and I even saw dogs really struggling, so be cautious. 

November 2023 | Big Ridge Loop at Big Ridge State Park, 5.3 miles, moderate, 3.25 hours east of Nashville, TN

Don’t forget to stamp your Tennessee State Park Passport at the visitor center when you arrive. There are also restrooms at the visitors center.

This trail has some ups and downs but I’d rate it moderate mostly for the length. The trail winds around Norris Lake and the leaves were still really beautiful this time of year. There were several people on the trail but everyone was very quiet, respectful. The lake water is a unique teal green/blue color.

October 2023 | Millennium Trail at Edgar Evins State Park, 2.3 miles, moderate, 1 hour east of Nashville, TN

I highly recommend using AllTrails or another trail map for this park. Even with AllTrails it was easy to take wrong turns because there are so many additional paths in this wooded area. 

There are some steep inclines and the trail is very rocky. The leaves were turning, which painted the forest a beautiful shade of gold and the views of Center Hill Lake were stunning.

There are restrooms at the visitors center, right before getting to the trail. Don’t forget to stamp your TN State Park Passport here as well. 

October 2023 | Long Hunter State Park, 30 minutes east of Nashville, TN

Long Hunter State Park offers a variety of programs and most are free to attend (but require registration). Check out my other posts about additional programs I’ve attended (butterfly and moth).

On this night, I participated in a group, night hike, under the full “hunters” moon. The sky was overcast but it was unbelievable how we didn’t have to use artificial light to see the path. A ranger from the park guided our tour around Couchville Lake. The path was paved and is a beautiful trail - day or night. 

We were able to spot many deer but I understand you can also spot owls, bats, and otters on the night hike from time to time.

I highly recommend the programs at Long Hunter. They are high quality and oftentimes free - making them highly accessible.

There are restrooms at the trailhead. No bicycles or skates are allowed on this trail.

October 2023 | 42nd Annual NAIA Indian Education Tennessee Pow Wow at Long Hunter State Park, 30 minutes east of Nashville, TN

This event is open to the public and features arts, crafts, dances, songs, storytelling, food, and clothing that are primarily Native American from across the entire US and through a wide range of native culture expressions. The event is held annually and lasts three days.

October 2023 | Battlefield Trail at Preservation Park, 2.8 miles, moderate, 40 minutes south of Nashville, TN

I highly recommend using AllTrails or another trail map for this park. Even with AllTrails I took several wrong turns. There are a few trails that come to a dead end so just be mindful that you may exceed the 2.8 mile park if this happens to you. 

AllTrails also rates this as “easy” but I’d rate it as moderate. There are some good hills to climb to get your heart rate up.

The overlook at the top is really beautiful. The leaves hadn’t quite started to change when I was there but it will be absolutely beautiful in late October/early November.

There are no restrooms at the park. Also, expect lots of dogs in the area. There are two large, open spaces for dogs to run at this park.

September 2023 | Radnor Lake Trail at Radnor Lake State Park, 2.8 miles, easy, 30 minutes south of Nashville, TN

If you’re visiting Nashville and have limited time to drive to a trail, this is the perfect park for you. I think of it like a Central Park near Nashville, a perfect nature oasis tucked right inside the city.

There are tons of trails to explore here and the wildlife never disappoints - deer, eagle, turtles, caterpillars, butterflies. 

This trail is great for kids but be sure you leave pets at home, as they aren’t allowed on the trail. Restrooms are available at the visitors center. 

September 2023 | Montgomery Bell State Park North Loop Trail, 6.74 miles, moderate, 45 minutes west of Nashville, TN

AllTrails clocks this at 6 miles but my distance was 6.74. It makes a loop through the forest, around a lake, and back to the parking lot. I recommend parking at the small, stone building right before you get to the welcome center.

Restrooms are available at the welcome center, along with a state park stamping station if you have a state park passport. 

The trail is moderate, with lots of rocks and tree roots to step over. I tripped several times so be vigilant. The trail also had a number of trail runners on it so be kind and move over. 

September 2023 | Lady’s Bluff Small Wild Area, 2.4 miles, moderate, 1.5 hours southwest of Nashville, TN

This trail is a 2.4 mile out-and-back near Parsons, TN. It’s moderate and requires climbing over several downed trees and steep grade.

The trail ends at an overlook of the Tennessee River. The trail was quiet and I didn’t meet any other hikers while on it. There were several people fishing from boats on the river. 

There are no restrooms at the trailhead.

September 2023 | Fancher Falls, guided kayaking by Cumberland Kayak, 6 miles, easy, 1.5 hours east of Nashville, TN

This is the second guided kayak I’ve done with Cumberland Kayak and I’d highly recommend them. They provide all the gear, plus guide. The kayak to Faancher Falls is about 6 miles roundtrip, across Center Hill Lake.

The waterfall is about 80’ high and there were no additional visitors at the falls but our group. The entire kayak took about 3 hours. 

September 2023 | Bowie Nature Park Perimeter Trail, 4.7 miles, moderate, 40 minutes southwest of Nashville, TN

This park is situated in Fairview, TN. In addition to hiking, you can horseback ride and bike on this trail. There are restrooms available at the trailhead, along with an air pump for bicycles. There is also a very large playground near the visitor’s center. 

The trail was rated moderate on AllTrails but I’d rate it as easy. There was only one large hill to walk up. The trail wanders through pine forest, into a clearing of wildflowers, and along a pond.

I only saw a few people on the trail and all were very respectful. There was one cyclist, so be sure to yield on the trail.

August 2023 | Natchez Trace Stables, 1 hour southwest of Nashville, TN

If you haven’t driven the Natchez Trace Parkway, I highly recommend it. The NTP is 444 miles long, stretching from Nashville, TN to Natchez, MS. It’s more than a scenic drive, there are hiking and horse backing trails along the trace. It’s also a hot spot for cyclists so remember to share the road. 

The stables are located off the parkway and are run by a talented and kind group of people. They offer group and private trail rides and riding lessons. My trail ride was 2 hours long. The guides were fantastic, very patient with people who hadn’t been on trail rides before but still adventurous enough for those of us that have been trail riding before.

The trail is through private property near the parkway - through valleys, forest, creeks, wildflowers, and overlook points. I especially enjoyed seeing all of the beautiful butterflies and wildflowers. 

August 2023 | Cordell Hull Birthplace, Bunkum Cave Trail, 2.2 miles, easy, 2 hours northeast of Nashville, TN

This trail is located in Byrdstown, TN and is marked as easy but if you struggle with stairs, this is more moderate. To see the cave you must walk down a steep staircase. 

The trail is a loop and I didn’t encounter many others on the trail. 

The cave is interesting and it’s nice you can get so close to it. I wasn’t able to enter the cave at this time of year because of protective factors around the bat population. 

The trail is very well marked and easy to follow. I did not see restrooms readily available, although there are additional sites/log cabins to tour across the street and perhaps there were restrooms available there. 

August 2023 | Pogue Creek Canyon State Natural Area, Mesa Top, Upper Canyon Trail to Killdeer Arch, 2.3 miles, moderate, 2.25 hours northeast of Nashville, TN

This trail is located in Jamestown, TN and can be found down a gravel backroad. Getting to the trailhead was a little tricky. You’ll head down a private driveway which eventually turns into a trail. The trail is moderate and features steep inclines and wooden staircases.

The trail is supposed to be a loop, although with all the downed trees at the bottom, I wasn’t able to find the connecting trail so I headed back the way I came. 

The mesa top is a beautiful view down into the canyon. The canyon rock at the bottom of the trail is unreal - like something you’d see in the Western US.

There are no restrooms on site and the trail is pretty remote so be prepared ahead of time.

August 2023 | Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Spruce Flats Falls Trail, 1.8 miles, moderate, 4.25 hours east of Nashville, TN

This trail is located in Townsend, TN. I hiked early so the trail wasn’t crowded. It’s a very narrow and technical trail so I recommend going early and on a week day if possible. 

I highly recommend taking hiking poles as there are a lot of tree roots and rocks to climb over. The trail was quite slick from recent rain/morning dew. It was well worth the trek. I recommend taking it slow and safely. The waterfall views are worth it!

The trail is very well marked and easy to follow. The park requires a parking permit which can be purchased in advance online or at visitor’s centers. Additional treks in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park can be found here and under North Carolina Treks.

August 2023 | Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Laurel Falls Trail, 2.4 miles, easy, 4.25 hours east of Nashville, TN

This trail is between Gatlinburg, TN and Townsend, TN. It is a very popular trail. Parking is limited so be sure you hit the trail early. The path is crudely paved and not appropriate for a stroller. 

The trail was very crowded and people weren’t friendly about sharing the path. I’d recommend going as early as possible if you can. The waterfall is beautiful and quite large. There is a nice wooden bridge over the base of the waterfall that allows you to get very close for photos. 

The trail is very well marked and easy to follow. The park requires a parking permit which can be purchased in advance online or at visitor’s centers. Additional treks in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park can be found under North Carolina Treks.

August 2023 | Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Peregrine Peak via Alum Cave Bluff Trail, 4.5 miles, moderate, 4.25 hours east of Nashville, TN

This trail is between Gatlingburg, TN and Townsend, TN. It is a very popular trail. I had to park about 0.75 miles away and walk to the trailhead. The trail itself had several groups of people but it was a beautiful hike along the river. 

I did run into an adolescent black bear on the trail. Stay bear aware as it’s hard to hear them because of the flow of the river. Links to bear safety gear can be found in link in bio. 

The arch rock is a beautiful structure with stairs up to small waterfalls. 

The trail is very well marked and easy to follow. The park requires a parking permit which can be purchased in advance online or at visitor’s centers. 

Additional treks in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park can be found under North Carolina Treks.

Lodging - Best Western Cades Cove, Townsend, TN

Eateries - 

Sevierville, TN - Applewood Farmhouse Restaurant 

Townsend, TN - Elvira’s Cafe

Townsend, TN - Apple Valley Mountain Village (cafe, general store, coffee shop) 

Townsend, TN - Good Vibes On the River

Townsend, TN - Trailhead Steak and Trout House

August 2023 | Bledsoe Creek State Park, High Ridge Trail and Shoreline Trail Loop, 3.22 miles, moderate, 45 minutes northeast of Nashville, TN

Part at the visitor’s center and start the trail across the road. There is a post marker labeled “connector” that indicates the trailhead. Restrooms are available at the visitor’s center.

The trail is labeled in AllTrails as being 2.5 miles but I clocked it at 3.22 and followed the map precisely. The trail is moderate. It’s mostly flat but there is a steep incline (stairs) toward the creek. I walked the trail clockwise which positioned me to be going downhill on the steep incline. It would be tough coming up the steep stairs.

The trail is very well marked. I saw many butterflies along the way and the shoreline portion was very peaceful. I saw several blue heron along the shore. There are a number of additional trails available at the park, including a storybook trail for kids.

July 2023 | Hidden Springs Trail at Cedars of Lebanon State Park, 5 miles, 40 minutes east of Nashville

This trail is marked moderate by AllTrails but it’s easy. It’s mostly flat and a great trail for running if you’re inclined. There were several runners while I was hiking so be mindful to share the trail. There are also cross-trails for horseback riding so be cautious at each trail intersection that there aren’t horses coming.

The trail is very well marked and quite wide for most of the path. There are only ports potties at the parking lot, no other restrooms were near the trailhead. Bikes are not allowed on the trail. 

The trail features forest, lots of wildflowers, and I saw a number of centipedes. It’s well shaded, making it a great option for getting out in hot weather.

July 2023 | Raptor Ridge Loop, 3 miles, 1.75 hours west of Nashville

This easy trail has recently been renovated, making it slightly longer than the link in AllTrails. The path is well marked. There are restrooms at the Nature Center, near the trails entrance.

The trail features forest, along the Kentucky Lake. Don’t miss the spur to the pebble beach. Lots of tiny frogs and very large butterflies. The trail was very quiet. I didn’t come across any other hikers while I was out. 

Don’t miss the wetland wildflower field to the right, before you cross the first road. This is a great stop to view wildflowers, butterflies, and even deer.

The park has a brand new, beautiful lodge, right on the lake. The restaurant is the perfect spot to refuel with a menu full of American classics. 

July 2023 - Alexander Trail at Thompson's Station Park, 1.4 miles, Easy, 35 minutes southwest of Nashville

This trail is an out-and-back trail near Thompson’s Station. The trail was quiet and traffic was low. There were a few trail runners, so be mindful of sharing the path.

The trail winds through mostly forest. It’s almost completely shaded, making it a cool spot to get exercise during these hot, summer months. 

There are a few parking lots at the lower end of the park (near the playground) but if you drive to the top of the hill, where the trail begins, there are a few spots available as well. 

Chapel Hill, TN 

July 2023 | Spring Creek and Wilhoite Mill Loop, 2.4 miles, 1 hour southeast of Nashville

This trail meanders through dense forest, alongside a creek, and river. The trail was peaceful and very quiet. The creek/river bed was almost completely dry on this trek, which offered a unique look at the variations in the rock beneath the waters surface. 

I did see one snake on this trail, a brown water snake. This trail is easy, mostly flat, and very enjoyable. There are several trails available at Henry Horton, along with a swimming pool, and lodging. Restrooms are not readily available at this trail.

July 2023 | Long Hunter Deer Trail, 0.8 miles, 40 minutes east of Nashville

The trail is short but the scenery is incredible. This trail is home to around 70 species of butterflies early July through mid-August. If you can break away from the beautiful butterflies, the trail meanders through a forest and to the shores of Percy Priest Lake. 

I booked two guided tours, one in the early evening focused on butterflies and wildflowers, and a night tour of moths. I was the only person on the butterfly/wildflower tour and had the entire wildflower grove to myself for well over an hour. 

At night, we made moth bait and painted it on the trees, then waited for darkness to fall before checking the trees for moths. The moths were more difficult to see than I expected. They camouflage almost perfectly into the bark. 

There were several deer on or around this trail. Restrooms are available at the welcome center. This park offers lots of programming (tap link and view "upcoming events"), including ways to watch meteor showers in late Summer and full moon hikes in the Fall.

July 2023 | Timberland Park 

I recently registered for emails from Williamson County Parks and Recreation (Franklin, TN) and was surprised to find so many FREE guided hikes this Summer. 

I’ve done two guided hikes with rangers at Timberland Park which is located off the Natchez Trace Parkway, near Franklin, TN.

The visitors center has excellent bathrooms, water bottle refill station, and walking sticks you can borrow for the day. Both guides were very knowledgeable about the area. I did a 2 mile guided hike and a 3 mile guided hike but they also offer shorter options. I’d rate the park as moderate difficulty, overall. It’s straight uphill to come back out from the bottom of the park. 

Both hikes featured views of the pond, nibbles of wild blackberries, and a wildflower field. 

Don’t forget to be mindful of bicyclists who also use the Natchez Trace. Timberland Park is a hot spot for them to refill water bottles and use the restroom so be cautious and always share the road.

Note: Part of this park lies on private property. No pets are allowed on this portion of the trail. 

The trails are all well marked if you decide to venture out on your own. You can see this and other guided hikes at Williamson County Parks here. 

July 2023 | Mounds Great Outer Loop Trail, 2.7 miles, 2 hours southwest of Nashville

Pinson Mounds State Archaeological Park boasts 15 Native American mounds. Study of the mounds indicates they were used for burial and ceremonial purposes. 

The path is paved, making it highly accessible. Biking is allowed and bathrooms are available at the museum. The path was quiet, well trafficked, and peaceful. The park had many signs about remnants of buildings and indicators of small mounds but the area was so overgrown that seeing the sites was very difficult. 

If you’re in the Jackson, TN area and need a place to get outside or go for a nice walk, it’s a nice park. It didn’t turn out to be quite as historically interesting as I’d hoped.

Afterwards I recommend driving into Jackson, TN (about a 30 minute drive) to grab garlic knots and pizza at Picasso.  

July 2023 | Lake Placid Loop Trail, 1.7 miles, 2.25 hours southwest of Nashville

Chickasaw State Park boasts some of the highest terrain in West Tennessee and offers a variety of hiking trails, beach for swimming, and cabins.

The Lake Placid Loop trail follows along the lakes edge with boardwalks crossing many wetlands.

The trail was flat, but pretty overgrown and not always marked well. I had to keep the AllTrails map up at all times to be sure I was following correctly. Some of the boardwalk was in disrepair, which made me anxious since there was a few feet of murky water running under.

I saw several turtles along the bank and the forest was filled with lots of birdsongs. 

July 2023 | Scenic Trail Loop, 2.7 miles, 1.5 hours southwest of Nashville

This was one of the most enjoyable trails I’ve been on this Summer. Mousetail Landing State Park is situated on the east bank of the Tennessee River and features fishing, camping, swimming (beach), and several hiking trails. 

The Scenic Trail Loop was easiest to access from the parking lot near the swimming beach. Look for a small sign and entrance to the forest across the road from the parking lot. The path is quite flat once you get into the forest. This hike is also very family friendly.

This trail is very dense and shaded. It’s cool but very humid. It felt like I was in a rainforest. 

The hiking path is covered in beautiful green moss which is a nice cushion under foot. There are tons of tiny, brown frogs along the path. I stopped counting at 62 frogs about 1/4 of a mile in.

There’s also a lot of interesting fungi growing, I assume the result of high humidity in the park.

One word of caution, thank goodness I had my bear bell on my backpack because it alerted a deer I was on the path. The deer scared me as it leaped over the trail and down the hill. Just be mindful that deer are absolutely in the area. 

July 2023 | Hickory Ridge Outer Trail, 2.7 miles, 1 hour south of Nashville

This trail was very easy, accessible. It was a lovely mid-afternoon walk. This trail is mostly in a forest, with a few clearings. It was peaceful, clean, and not crowded. Will absolutely be back!

July 2023 | 2 hours southeast of Nashville.

Started the morning with a walk at Greenway Farm (about 20 minutes outside of Chattanooga). The path is paved, very well kept, and pretty easy. There are a few hills to get your heart rate up. The path overlooks an abandoned quarry.

I then hit up Yellow Deli for a small lunch. I can't recommend their chili and strawberry smoothie enough! If you're going to visit, keep in mind that service is slow so don't arrive thinking you'll get seated and served immediately.

And then to wrap up the day, I went to the newly opened Massey's Kitchen on Lookout Mountain. I was dying to try this place after seeing it on IG and it did not disappoint. Try the mediterranean flatbread and save room for chocolate gelato. I will absolutely be back!