Discover all that the great outdoors has to offer with the surplus of natural beauty spanning Nashville and its surrounding areas. These nearby green spaces provide the perfect escape to curb your adventure cravings, bask in the beauty of nature, and make the most of those fleeting summer days.
Harpeth River State Park
Nothing screams summer like a long day spent out on the water. With 40 miles of river, and nine access sites, Harpeth River State Park provides just that. Roughly a 30-minute drive will get you to the river, which everyone from beginners to advanced kayakers and canoers can enjoy. If you have your own canoe or kayak feel free to bring it, but rentals are also available from local outfitters in and around Kingston Springs. Park sites include several natural, archeological, and historical areas, making this a great destination for fishing and hiking as well. While you’re there, be sure to check out the Narrows of the Harpeth, located off Cedar Hill Road, for an invigorating five-mile float. Here, you can check out one of the oldest man-made tunnels in existence, or hike the half-mile bluff overlook trail for a panoramic view of the Harpeth Valley. Pro tip: the views from this trail are so surreal you’ll want to have your camera ready. (tnstateparks.com/parks/harpeth-river)
Radnor Lake State Park
Calling all nature enthusiasts: Radnor Lake State Park is your super-local getaway. With its abundance of wildlife, environmental education programs, and hiking trails, this 1,368-acre park is an easy escape from the hustle and bustle of city life—without ever leaving the city. The park’s 7.75 miles of trails provide an afternoon full of connecting with nature, as it is strictly open to hiking, photography, and wildlife observation. (Pets, jogging, and bicycles are permitted on the park’s Otter Creek Road trail.) A wide variety of wildlife and plants make this park especially unique, including owls, herons, waterfowl, amphibians, reptiles, mink, and otter, as well as stunning wildflowers, mosses, ferns, and vines. Don’t miss the Barbara J. Mapp Aviary Education Center for an up-close observational experience. All of it adds up to an immersive nature adventure, right here in Music City. (tnstateparks.com/ parks/radnor-lake)
Submitted Photo
Submitted The new Window Cliffs State Natural Area, in Putnam County about seven miles from Burgess Falls State Park, opens to the public on April 7. Window Cliffs waterfall
Burgess Falls State Park
Just under an hour and a half, it’s an easy drive to Burgess Falls State Park, located on the Falling Water River where chasing waterfalls is the name of the game. The park radiates natural beauty, but its most popular attraction is the falls themselves; there are four that reach 250 feet in elevation. The last of these falls is perhaps the most breathtaking, as it cascades more than 130 feet into the gorge below. If you’re looking for some activities to accompany these spectacular views, Burgess Falls has you covered. Fishing is popular, either below the dam or at the main waterfall along the bank; there’s also a fishing pier. Or, hike right past the waterfalls on the moderately strenuous River Trail/Service Road Loop if you’re in the mood for a challenge. The half-mile Ridge Top Trail is also scenic, with views of Falling Water River’s main canyon. And if you’ve come to relax, enjoy lunch at the park’s spacious covered pavilion, equipped with grills and a perfect river view.(tnstateparks.com/parks/burgess-falls)
Sevier Park
Whether you’re in the mood to people watch, grab a drink or a bite, shop the boutiques, or partake in a mural photoshoot, 12 South has all that we love about Nashville, including Sevier Park, a local gem that’s suitable for all ages. Not only is this park home to the 12 South Farmers Market on Tuesday evenings, it also features endless fields of open green space, two playgrounds, picnic spaces, and an impressive community center full of amenities. Pack a picnic basket and a big blanket for your crew to soak up some sun on the park’s luscious green hill, which overlooks a creek running through the park. Or, go for a jog around the pathway that winds around the perimeter of the grounds. This little suburban oasis is also dog friendly, so you’re sure to see some of the cutest pups Nashville has to offer. (nashville.gov)
Old Stone Fort State Archaeological Park
Located roughly an hour outside of Nashville, in Manchester, you’ll find Old Stone Fort State Archaeological Park, which draws history enthusiasts and nature lovers from all across the state. Check out the park’s main hiking trail following the wall of Old Stone Fort, which was used by the Native Americans as a ceremonial gathering place. Not only will you enjoy the trail’s scenery, you can also see the original entrance of the fort designed to face the exact spot on the horizon where the sun rises during the summer solstice. With 12 interpretive panels along the hike, you’ll learn about the history of Old Stone Fort all while taking in some remarkable waterfall views. Be sure to stop by the park’s museum, featuring displays of prehistoric Native American replicas, dioramas, photos, and more. (tnstateparks.com/parks/old-stone-fort)