Updated on 3/21/2024
As the weather warms, Clarksville's trails come alive with the melodies of songbirds and the rustle of new foliage. Whether you are seeking a peaceful escape for a scenic family stroll, an urban trail full of public art, or a more rugged unpaved path to challenge yourself, you are sure to find a new favorite spot to get your steps in. Located just 40 miles northwest of Nashville, Clarksville offers a sanctuary away from the hustle and bustle of the city, allowing you to reconnect with the natural splendor of Middle Tennessee.
Dunbar Cave State Park
Dunbar Cave State Park | Photo Credit: Lucas Ryan Chambers
Dunbar Cave State Park is one of Clarksville’s most popular outdoor spots for visitors and residents alike. This 144-acre natural playground in the center of the city includes almost four miles of hiking trails, picturesque picnic areas, abundant wildlife, and a Visitor Center. With the addition of a bridge across the lake, you can loop around the cave entrance, over the water, and up and down hills to your heart’s content. Guided cave tours occur from May to September, but fun programs and special events happen throughout the year.
Lunch Idea: With a 5-minute drive, enjoy Caprigio's Pizza for fresh-made pizzas, calzones, salads, and more. They offer gluten-free crust, too. Looking to have even more fun in the sun with outdoor dining? Head to Clyde's of Clarksville for a diverse menu of flatbreads, salads, sandwiches, and entrees.
The Clarksville Greenway
Clarksville Greenway | Photo Credit: Jon Duncan
You’ll abandon the hurries of the city at the Clarksville Greenway. This 9-mile (but ever-expanding) paved walking and biking trail along the Red River and West Fork Creek is a scenic spot with multiple entrance points. You’ll find it hard to believe you’re in the middle of town as you take in all the native species of plants and animals, bluff walls, tree canopies, overlooks, and a 600-foot pedestrian bridge. The flat paved sections are great for little ones still using training wheels or learning to ride without them. You can also use the outdoor exercise equipment or connect to the North Ford Mountain Bike Trail.
Lunch Ideas: Wild Flour Bake Shop is a small batch, all-scratch bake shop serving up delicious sandwiches, bowls, and specialty items. In the mood for sushi? Head to Yellowtail Robata Grill & Sushi to enjoy a large menu of specialty and classic rolls, along with noodles, hibachi, and other Asian cuisine.
Rotary Park
Rotary Park
Find six miles of mostly hilly hiking at Rotary Park, a 111-acre natural area with a creek, picnic areas, a disc golf course, an ADA-accessible playground, and a family-friendly nature center. Trails are heavily wooded with plenty of wildflowers, and the winding wide creek makes the area especially scenic (plus it’s a fun way to cool down!) Be aware that trails are shared with mountain bikers.
Lunch Ideas: The Thirsty Goat is a craft beer garden, artisan coffee shop, and a pizza joint all rolled into one. Enjoy outdoor seating and colorful murals at this community favorite. Alternatively, opt for healthier options like smoothie bowls, toasts, or cold-pressed juices at The Sol Press Co.
Billy Dunlop Park
Billy Dunlop Park
Cast your line for fishing, take a refreshing dip, launch a kayak, or spread out a picnic blanket and enjoy some lunch at Billy Dunlop Park. Bordered by the Red River, this 30-acre park boasts a 2.2-mile walking trail with a picturesque bridge over the water.
Lunch Ideas: Enjoy in-house roasted chicken with marinade options using spices from around the globe at Smokin Chikin, or opt for a classic pizza and wings at Four Brothers Wood-Fired Pizza.
Cumberland RiverWalk
Cumberland Riverwalk | Photo Credit: Jon Duncan
The Cumberland Riverwalk is a two-mile riverside promenade with an extension connecting to the Red River Bridge. Make time for the family to enjoy the playground at McGregor Park and the As the River Flows interpretive center. At its southern end, the Riverwalk connects to the Upland Trail (and the heart of historic downtown) via a pedestrian bridge over Riverside Drive.
Lunch Ideas: Head uptown to Strawberry Alley Ale Works for potato chip nachos and gorgeous sunset views, or opt for beer cheese and flatbread at Blackhorse Pub & Brewery.
Upland Trail
Upland Trail | Photo Credit: @alway.s_august
Hiking in nature with woods and creeks is loads of fun, but urban hiking can be just as adventurous. The Upland Trail is still a well-kept secret that connects the Cumberland Riverwalk to downtown and Valleybrook Park via a pedestrian overpass. The Upland Trail is a system of extensions and spurs so you can start and stop at any number of places. You’ll see public art and historic buildings, cross a railroad trestle, and explore for about 5 miles if you adjoin the Riverwalk to its end.
Lunch Ideas: Known for its authentic Italian menu, Fanelli's Deli & Market serves delicious sandwiches, traditional cannolis, and black and white cookies. Another popular spot located just a few minutes from the trail, Wicked Good Sandwiches offers a large menu of "wicked good" burgers and sandwiches.
Have another favorite Clarksville trail? Share a picture on Instagram and tag us at #VisitClarksvilleTN.
