The ultimate outdoor lover’s guide to Middle Tennessee

Middle Tennessee offers a kind of natural beauty you won’t find in travel brochures. More than just Nashville’s backyard, this diverse region is a wide-open landscape filled with rivers, trails, forests, and farmland stretching from the cliffs of the Cumberland Plateau to the peaceful fields of Maury County.

If you love being surrounded by nature, enjoy the sound of flowing water, or want more room to breathe and explore, this region could be exactly what you’re looking for.

BEST HIKES AND SCENIC TRAILS

Middle Tennessee is a hiker’s paradise, no matter what your experience level. You’ll find everything here—limestone ridges, thick hardwood forests, tucked-away lakes, and trails that wind along rivers.

What makes it even better is that so many trails are right in or close to state parks, natural areas, and the charming small towns Tennessee is known for. Here’s where you can explore the natural beauty of Middle Tennessee on foot.

Natchez Trace Parkway

More than a road, the Natchez Trace Parkway in Tennessee is a journey through landscapes layered with history and beauty. Winding through the state’s central hills and valleys, this 444-mile national parkway begins its northern reach just outside Nashville and provides hikers with a rich variety of trails that connect them to both nature and the deep roots of the Old Southwest.

The parkway follows a path first formed by migrating animals and later walked by Indigenous peoples, traders, and pioneers. While the parkway is famed for its scenic drive, the hiking experiences it offers are just as rewarding.

• Birdsong Hollow and the iconic Parkway BridgeAbout a mile north at Milepost 438 is the striking Natchez Trace Parkway Bridge, a graceful, double-arch structure that stretches across Birdsong Hollow. Considered one of the Parkway’s architectural icons, the bridge isn’t a trail in itself but offers some of the most memorable views along the route.
• Old Natchez TraceIf you’re looking for a more immersive experience, you can still hike the preserved portions of the Old Natchez Trace. These worn footpaths wind through dense forests and over gentle ridgelines, offering a rugged and authentic glimpse into the landscapes once traveled centuries ago.
• Leiper’s ForkAfter your hike, take a short detour off the Parkway at Milepost 428 to visit Leiper’s Fork. This quaint village, with its locally owned shops, art galleries, and Southern restaurants, is a favorite Middle Tennessee thing to do for a post-hike meal or cultural break.

Timberland Park

Just off the Natchez Trace Parkway near Franklin, Timberland Park is a serene escape into Middle Tennessee’s wooded hills. While small compared to sprawling state parks, Timberland has become a favorite stop for hikers who want a quiet, half-day adventure surrounded by forest, wildlife, and rolling ridgelines.

• Trails that tell a storyFor generations, the wooded property of Timberland Park was used for logging. Today, those same old logging roads have been transformed into the park’s hiking trails. The result is a network of over three miles of natural trails ranging from easy to moderate that wind across ridges, dip into ravines, and pass through dense stands of oak and hickory.
• The Big East Fork Reserve TrailA highlight for many hikers is the Big East Fork Reserve Trail that was created through a partnership with neighboring landowners. This 2.5-mile loop takes Timberland’s hiking experience to another level by combining deep woods, grassy meadows, and a sparkling pond.

  Reaching the Big East Fork requires a short walk along the Judy Holman Trail but the path is well marked. At the pond, a small footbridge connects hikers to the loop that winds back into Timberland Park.

• Scenery and amenitiesApart from the trails, Timberland Park offers several amenities that enhance the Middle Tennessee hiking experience. Inside its 2,000-square-foot interpretive center, visitors will find educational displays, historic photos, and even a cozy fireplace with rocking chairs. The park also offers picnic areas, restrooms, RV access, and a seasonal butterfly garden.

Radnor Lake State Park

Designated as Tennessee’s first State Natural Area in 1973, Radnor Lake has since become a beloved sanctuary for hikers, birdwatchers, and nature lovers. With more than a million visitors each year, its combination of scenic hiking trails, abundant wildlife, recreational things to do and quiet forested beauty makes it one of Middle Tennessee’s most treasured outdoor destinations.

• Hiking trails for every explorerRadnor Lake offers 7.75 miles of trails that are carefully maintained and reserved for hiking, photography, and wildlife observation. Pets, jogging, and bicycles are only permitted on the paved Otter Creek Road Trail to keep the rest of the park’s network serene and walker-friendly.

  For a quick outing, visitors can take the Dam Walkway, a 0.20-mile gravel trail with scenic views of the lake or the Spillway Trail, a 0.25-mile ADA-accessible path beginning at the visitor center. Families and those seeking a flat, easy walk often choose the Lake Trail, a 1.32-mile loop that hugs the shoreline and offers great opportunities for spotting turkeys, waterfowl, and songbirds.

  Hikers looking for more challenge can head to the South Cove Trail, which is a 1.40-mile trek that climbs to ridge views or the Ganier Ridge Trail, a 1.65-mile route named for naturalist Albert Ganier.

• Wildlife and birdwatchingOne of Radnor Lake’s biggest draws is its wildlife. The park is home to deer, turkeys, otters, mink, turtles, and countless bird species. More than 200 species of birds have been documented, which has made birdwatching here a top attraction in Middle Tennessee.

  During spring and fall migrations, warblers, vireos, and flycatchers can be seen along the trails while winter brings waterfowl like kingfishers, cormorants, and herons to the lake. It’s also not unusual to spot a bald eagle, a red-tailed hawk, or even an owl perched in the trees.

Chickasaw Trace Park

Nestled between the Duck River and its tributary, Knob Creek, the 240-acre Chickasaw Trace Park is one of Maury County’s most scenic outdoor spaces. Known for its trail system, riverside views, and peaceful rural setting, Chickasaw Trace attracts hikers, bikers, families, and nature lovers alike.

• Scenic trails along the river and woodlandsAt the heart of Chickasaw Trace Park are its 8–9 miles of trails designed primarily for mountain biking but open to hikers as well. The first 3.5 miles of trail are relatively flat and follow the rivers. Further in, the terrain becomes more challenging in an area known as the “Trail of Tears”—a technical five-mile section with steeper climbs and descents. While mountain bikers often use this stretch for training and racing, hikers willing to take on the elevation gain are rewarded with sweeping woodland scenery.
• Where nature and community meetHikers at Chickasaw Trace share the trails with mountain bikers, so being aware of surroundings is encouraged. Despite this, the park maintains a friendly, welcoming atmosphere, thanks in large part to the Columbia Cycling Club, which helps maintain the trail system and organizes events like the Duck River Trail Run and the Chickasaw Trace Classic.

Montgomery Bell State Park

Only 40 minutes west of Nashville, Montgomery Bell State Park offers 3,850 acres of forest, lakes, and trails in the heart of Dickson County. Once the hub of Tennessee’s early iron industry, today the park is a retreat where visitors can hike, paddle, and explore the many activities Middle Tennessee has to offer.

• Hiking through history and forestsMontgomery Bell’s trail system covers almost 19 miles, winding through hardwood forests, streams, and rolling hills. Trails range from short, family-friendly loops to more rugged paths that explore the park’s historic and natural sites.

  Popular hikes include the Ore Pit Trail, which offers a glimpse into the park’s industrial past, and the Spillway Trail, where hikers can walk alongside creeks and hop across rocks. For those after a longer challenge, there are trails that circle sections of the park with extended treks through varied terrain.

• Lakeside beautyThe park’s three lakes—Acorn, Woodhaven, and Graham—are among its most scenic features. Lake Acorn, the largest, is a favorite for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. For those who like to mix hiking with time on the water, boats and kayaks can be rented from the park’s Broken Paddle Outfitters.
• More than just trailsWhile the trails and lakes are the main draw for hikers, Montgomery Bell also offers plenty of amenities to round out a visit. The newly renovated Lodge, perched on Lake Acorn, has 117 modern rooms, a restaurant, and outdoor pool. Eight eco-friendly cabins, a 94-site campground, and the historic Group Camp One (built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s) give overnight guests a range of options.

Bledsoe Creek State Park

Just 45 minutes northeast of Nashville, Bledsoe Creek State Park offers a quiet, scenic retreat on the backwaters of Old Hickory Lake. Covering more than 160 acres, this Gallatin-based park is popular with hikers, birdwatchers, campers, and families looking for a nature getaway that combines wooded trails with peaceful lakeside scenery.

• Trails along the shorelines and woodlandsThe park features over six miles of trails that wind along the lakeshore and through mature forests. The Shoreline Trail is a favorite, looping around the park with a mix of water views and wooded stretches.

  Bledsoe Creek offers accessible paved trails, including the family-friendly Mayo Wix Trail and its educational storybook component designed to engage children while they walk. The Birdsong and High Ridge Trails provide slightly more challenging routes with shady woods and streams, but overall the hikes are easy and enjoyable year-round.

• Birding and wildlifeBledsoe Creek State Park is known as one of the best birdwatching spots in Middle Tennessee. More than 100 bird species have been recorded here, including herons, wood ducks, songbirds, and migratory waterfowl. Deer are commonly seen along the trails, sometimes even wandering through the campground. Rabbits, frogs, turtles, and butterflies also make frequent appearances.

WATER ADVENTURES

If you love being around the water, Middle Tennessee is full of winding rivers, crystal-clear spring-fed lakes, and amazing hidden swimming holes that feel like your own private discovery. However you choose to enjoy the water here, it’s the perfect way to unwind and really take in all the natural beauty that makes this part of Tennessee so special.

Duck River

Winding for 284 miles across Middle Tennessee, the Duck River is not only the longest river entirely contained within the state. It’s also one of the most ecologically vibrant rivers in North America. Flowing from Coffee County to its confluence with the Tennessee River in Humphreys County, the Duck is a scenic playground for outdoor enthusiasts and a lifeline for a stunning variety of plant and animal life.

• Paddling paradiseThe Duck River’s waters are smooth, calm, and ideal for paddlers of all skill levels. Canoeing and kayaking are popular ways to explore the river’s curves, with multiple public access points making it easy to plan a trip. Notable launch sites include the Iron Bridge and Riverside TWRA access points, although paddling between them is not recommended due to a dam.
• A hotspot for anglersThe Duck River’s healthy, diverse waters support prized catches like smallmouth bass, spotted bass, rock bass, channel catfish, rainbow trout, and sunfish. Fishing is permitted from boats or the bank, and thanks to over 30 public access sites listed by the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA), you don’t need private land access to enjoy a great day on the water.
• Wildlife watchingThe Duck River supports more than 500 aquatic species, including 151 kinds of fish and over 50 species of freshwater mussels. River otters, beavers, turtles, and deer frequent the shoreline, while birdwatchers can spot herons, egrets, kingfishers, and bald eagles, especially in the early morning or late afternoon.

Harpeth River

Just outside Nashville’s urban sprawl, the Harpeth River flows for 125 scenic miles through Middle Tennessee and offers an abundance of things to do in the water. Designated as a State Scenic River in portions, the Harpeth is a favorite destination for kayaking, fishing, and riverfront exploring, especially for those looking to escape the crowds without venturing far from the city.

• Kayaking and canoeing the HarpethThe Harpeth’s calm waters are great for both beginners and experienced paddlers. Kayaking and canoeing are the most popular ways to enjoy the river, with many easy access points in local parks. A go-to route stretches from the U.S. Highway 70 bridge to Harris Street, with a relaxing float past shaded woods, rural scenery, and historic sites
• Casting a lineThe Harpeth River is a favorite for fishing thanks to its calm waters and variety of fish, including smallmouth bass, rock bass, and catfish. You can fish from the bank, wade in, or cast from a kayak. Spring and summer are the best times to go because of its active fish and perfect conditions.
• Swimming and river relaxation
  While there are no designated swimming beaches along the Harpeth, shallow gravel bars and natural wading pools form along many sections during the warmer months. Many people cool off in the calm water or relax by the river with a picnic. Hidden Lake and areas near Kingston Springs are local favorites for easy river access and quiet swimming spots.

Couchville Cedar Glade State Natural Area

While the glade itself is a botanical treasure with its endangered Tennessee coneflowers and ancient limestone barrens, nearby Couchville Lake and its surrounding parks turn this quiet pocket of Middle Tennessee into a hub for kayaking, fishing, and lakeside exploration.

• Couchville LakeTucked beside Long Hunter State Park, Couchville Lake is the ideal destination for a peaceful day on the water. Unlike the rugged glade terrain, the lake offers a smooth, flat surface perfect for kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, or just drifting in a boat and soaking in the scenery.

  Although swimming is not permitted, the lake’s shoreline offers plenty of space for picnicking, photography, or a shaded break between hikes. There’s even a two-mile paved loop trail that circles part of the lake, giving visitors the option to combine water and land adventures in one visit.

• Nearby launch pointsFor broader access to Old Hickory Lake, nearby recreation areas like Smith Springs Park and Four Corners Resort & Marina offer even more options for boating and water play. At Four Corners, visitors can rent pontoons or jet skis, dock private boats, or grab a bite to eat with views of the water.

  Smith Springs Park, located just a short drive away, features shoreline fishing spots and boat launches. Together, these lakeside points add a fun, family-friendly option of things to do in Middle Tennessee.

YOUR MIDDLE TENNESSEE ADVENTURE AWAITS

Middle Tennessee really has it all when it comes to outdoor adventures. Whether you’re the type who loves hitting the trails at sunrise, spending lazy afternoons by the water, or discovering those hidden gems that only locals seem to know about, this region delivers in spades.

Ready to make Middle Tennessee your home base for all these incredible outdoor adventures? The LCT Team at Onward Real Estate knows this region inside and out and we can help you find the perfect home that puts you right in the heart of all this natural beauty. Give us a call at 615.595.5883 or send us a message today.