Day Trips from Nashville
← All Nashville day tripsDay Trips from Nashville: Hiking Trails & Nature
Find the best hiking trails and nature destinations within driving distance of Nashville, 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 Nashville
Savage Gulf State Park
Beersheba Springs, TN 37305
Just 1 hr 44 min from Nashville, rated 4.9 stars by 782 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 44 min from Nashville, 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.
Little River Canyon National Preserve
Fort Payne, AL 35967
Just 2 hrs 40 min from Nashville, rated 4.8 stars by 2,420 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.
Short Springs Natural Area
Tullahoma, TN 37388
Just 1 hr 17 min from Nashville, rated 4.8 stars by 1,046 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.
Ozone Falls State Natural Area
Ozone, TN 37854
Just 1 hr 56 min from Nashville, rated 4.8 stars by 2,454 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.
Pogue Creek Canyon State Natural Area
Jamestown, TN 38556
Just 2 hrs 10 min from Nashville, rated 4.8 stars by 141 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.
Colditz Cove State Natural Area
Jamestown, TN 38556
Just 2 hrs 11 min from Nashville, rated 4.8 stars by 334 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.
Monte Sano Nature Preserve (Bankhead Trailhead)
Huntsville, AL 35801
Just 1 hr 59 min from Nashville, rated 4.8 stars by 714 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.
Fall Creek Falls State Park
Spencer, TN 38585
Just 2 hrs from Nashville, rated 4.8 stars by 8,617 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.
Harpeth River State Park
Kingston Springs, TN 37082
Just 35 min from Nashville, rated 4.8 stars by 411 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.
Virgin Falls State Natural Area
Sparta, TN 38583
Just 1 hr 57 min from Nashville, rated 4.8 stars by 413 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.
Bell Smith Springs Scenic Area
Ozark, IL 62972
Just 2 hrs 53 min from Nashville, rated 4.8 stars by 700 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 Nashville
What are the best hiking trails near Nashville, TN?
The best hikes near Nashville 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 Nashville?
Yes. Many state parks and nature preserves near Nashville 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 Nashville?
Pack water, snacks, sunscreen, and layers. Most trails near Nashville 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 Nashville?
Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer the best hiking weather and scenery near Nashville. 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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