Day Trips from Memphis
← All Memphis day tripsDay Trips from Memphis: Hiking Trails & Nature
Find the best hiking trails and nature destinations within driving distance of Memphis, TN. From easy lakeside walks to challenging ridge hikes, these day trip trails deliver real scenery without the plane ticket. Drive times, ratings, and trail info included.
12 hiking trails near Memphis
Lady's Bluff TVA Small Wild Area
Linden, TN 37096
Just 2 hrs 37 min from Memphis, rated 4.9 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Petit Jean State Park
Morrilton, AR 72110
Just 2 hrs 58 min from Memphis, rated 4.9 stars by 6,854 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Wolf River Nature Area
Germantown, TN 38138
Just 24 min from Memphis, rated 4.8 stars by 123 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Pinnacle Mountain State Park
Little Rock, AR 72223
Just 2 hrs 15 min from Memphis, rated 4.8 stars by 2,395 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Cane Creek Canyon Nature Preserve
Tuscumbia, AL 35674
Just 2 hrs 34 min from Memphis, rated 4.8 stars by 343 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Rock Springs Nature Trail
Florence, AL 35633
Just 2 hrs 22 min from Memphis, rated 4.7 stars by 172 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park, Nature Center
Millington, TN 38053
Just 27 min from Memphis, rated 4.7 stars by 163 visitors, rich in history and well worth exploring.
Best time to visit: Year-round. Indoor museums and historic sites are great rainy-day options.
Lake Catherine State Park
Hot Springs, AR 71913
Just 2 hrs 50 min from Memphis, rated 4.7 stars by 3,255 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Trail of Tears State Park
Jackson, MO 63755
Just 2 hrs 49 min from Memphis, rated 4.6 stars by 922 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park
Millington, TN 38053
Just 23 min from Memphis, rated 4.6 stars by 1,474 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Tishomingo State Park
Tishomingo, MS 38873
Just 2 hrs 13 min from Memphis, rated 4.6 stars by 1,005 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Rattlesnake Ridge Natural Area
-92.521126, Roland
Just 2 hrs 20 min from Memphis, rated 4.6 stars by 217 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hiking Trails Day Trips from Memphis
What are the best hiking trails near Memphis, TN?
The best hikes near Memphis range from easy nature preserve loops to challenging state park trails with waterfalls, overlooks, and canyon scenery. Check the cards above for top-rated options with real drive times.
Are there easy hikes near Memphis?
Yes. Many state parks and nature preserves near Memphis offer well-maintained, beginner-friendly trails under 3 miles. Look for "Nature" tagged destinations above for the most accessible options.
What should I bring on a day hike from Memphis?
Pack water, snacks, sunscreen, and layers. Most trails near Memphis are well-marked but cell service can be spotty in state parks. Download trail maps before you leave and wear sturdy shoes.
When is the best time to hike near Memphis?
Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer the best hiking weather and scenery near Memphis. Fall foliage is spectacular at most destinations. Summer works but can be hot and buggy. Winter hiking is possible at many parks with proper gear.
Don't know where to go?
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