Best Places to hike in Memphis, Tennessee
Memphis, the hardwood capital of the world, never falls short allowing locals and visitors to commune with nature. The city has one of the top urban park systems in the country and has won the Cleanest City Award at least 11 times! If there’s one word that best describes Memphis, it’s “green.”
The name “Memphis” means “established and beautiful,” so if you find yourself in the city, you can expect plenty of both. To get the best Memphis experience, hiking with friends and family is a must. There are plenty of places to hike in and around Memphis. The city has many gems in its parks, and nearby Bluff City offers some of the best hiking trails in Tennessee.
Whenever you’re ready for some breathtaking views and fresh air, here are the best places to hike in and near Memphis:
Shelby Farms Park Greenline
Length of Trail: 10.9 miles
Cost: Free
Location: 6903 Great View Dr N, Memphis, TN 38134, United States (Shelby Farms Park)
Phone: (901) 222-7275
If there’s a list of the most popular locations in Memphis, Shelby Farms Park will definitely be there! The park has countless trails for all hiking levels, and Shelby Farms Park Greenline is one of the most well-known. The paved trails allow hikers and bikers to work out with nature. You’ll come across some bridges over the Wolf River and go through forested areas in the city.
Shelby Farms Park Greenline has several entries and exit points, so you can start and finish your hike wherever you want. The park is also pet-friendly, so you can bring your furry friend along for the walk. Just ensure you keep them leashed! The Greenline is an excellent option if you’re a beginner and up for some urban trail.
Wolf River Greenway
Length of Trail: 7.4 miles
Cost: Free
Location: Memphis, TN 38120, United States (Lucius Burch State Natural Area)
Phone: (901) 371-3000
Lucius Burch State Natural Area is a part of Shelby Farms Park, and it’s where you’ll find the Wolf River Greenway. Like the Shelby Farms Park Greenline, this trail is beginner-friendly and is perfect for a leisurely stroll or run. It can get a bit crowded, though, because it’s a highly-frequented trail. Nevertheless, the Greenway will take you to a part of Memphis that’s serene and safe.
The trail promises protected green spaces next to the Wolf River, so you will be surrounded by nature. And if you’re lucky early morning or nighttime, you may see some local wildlife! In case you get tired in the middle of your hike, there are benches along the trail where you can rest. The Wolf River Greenway is a paved trail that’s also great for biking.
Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park
Length of Trail: Varies
Cost: N/A
Location: 910 Riddick Rd, Millington, TN 38053, United States
Phone: (888) 867-2757
Take a 20-minute drive from Memphis, and you’ll find yourself at the Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park. Here, you’ll have several hiking options and can even camp if you want to! The park has over 20 miles of hiking trails that will take you to forests and lakes. Hiking near Memphis? Meeman-Shelby is a must-visit.
One of the trails you can try is the Woodland Trail. The three-mile loop trail has an elevation gain of 439 feet, so it can be moderately challenging for beginners. The Woodland Trail may not promise breathtaking views, but its inclines and descents will take your breath away. The trail is a good workout, so don’t forget to bring water. Hike at your own pace, too!
Herb Parsons Lake Trail
Length of Trail: 6.2 miles
Cost: Free
Location: 1295 Fisherville Rd, Collierville
Phone: N/A
Herb Parsons Lake Trail is in Collierville, about 33 miles from Memphis. If you’re wondering if it’ll be worth the 40-minute drive, the answer is a resounding YES. The lake and the trails will make you feel like you’re miles away from civilization. You’ll see some wildlife, and the smell of nature will definitely invigorate you.
The Herb Parsons Lake Trail is technically accessible, but many still find it challenging. There are a few inclines, and the trail can be quite slippery when wet. It’s best to hike during dry weather, and don’t forget to bring water and snacks. Whenever you want to take your time and enjoy the views of the lake, find a spot and take in the kind of serenity that only Herb Parsons Lake Trail can give.
Stanky Creek Trail
Length of Trail: 9 miles
Cost: N/A
Location: 5760 Yale Rd, Memphis, TN 38135, United States (Nesbit Park)
Phone: (901) 385-6400
“The Stank” is only about 14 miles from Memphis, and you’ll have to prepare for its rugged trails through the woods. If it’s an adventure you’re looking for, the Stanky Creek Trail is definitely for you. It’s composed of three separate trails, so you can take on as much or as little as you want. Just be warned that the trails can get pretty steep and challenging, so make sure you’re up for it!
The Stanky Creek Trail’s terrain and elevation can change throughout. Some areas will feel like you’re climbing a mountain, while others will be more forgiving. You’ll find wooden boardwalks and dirt pathways that’ll show you different aspects of the great outdoors. Whether challenging or not, the views of Stanky Creek and the surrounding woods will be your reward.
Fort Pillow State Historic Park
Length of Trail: 8.1 miles
Cost: Free
Location: 3122 Park Rd, Henning, TN 38041, United States
Phone: (888) 867-2757
History is always a part of any Memphis experience. You can see some while hiking at the Fort Pillow State Historic Park. The park is about an hour and a half away from Memphis, but the drive will take you through picturesque views of the Tennessee countryside.
You’ll see the remains of the Civil War fort, and hiking the trails will give you a better understanding of what happened there. The trails can be challenging, with some areas having an incline. You’ll see views of the nearby lake, and the forested areas will give you some much-needed shade. Hiking at the Fort Pillow State Historic Park is a great way to learn about history and appreciate nature simultaneously.
Pinnacle Mountain State Park
Length of Trail: 1.5 miles
Cost: Free
Location: 11901 Pinnacle Valley Rd, Roland, AR 72135, United States
Phone: (501) 868-5806
Now, if you’ve got extra time on your hands and are willing to travel 150 miles from Memphis, Pinnacle Mountain State Park should be your next destination. The state park is across the border in Arkansas, and hiking here will be nothing less than spectacular. The trail will take your breath away, physically and figuratively!
The Pinnacle Mountain State Park has one of the most impressive peaks in the region. Hiking here will show you the nearly perfect triangular mountain, and you have the option to climb over 700 feet to the top. The trail can be a little much for beginners, but it’ll be a fun challenge for the more experienced. Once you reach the top, take in the beautiful views of the Arkansas River and Lake Maumelle.
Petit Jean State Park
Length of Trail: Varies
Cost: Free
Location: 285 Petit Jean Mountain Rd, Morrilton, AR 72110, United States
Phone: (501) 727-5441
The undeniable reason that Petit Jean State Park made it on this list is because of the Cedar Falls trail. Yes, you have to see the stunning Cedar Falls! The 95-foot waterfall is one of the tallest in the state. It’s continuously flowing, and you must follow the Cedar Creek trail to get there.
The journey to Cedar Falls is a two-mile round-trip showing you giant stone boulders and hundreds of years old trees. When you hike this trail, you’ll find many photographers trying to capture the waterfall in all its glory. Hiking here is a must, especially if you want to get away from the city for a while.
Natchez Trace Parkway
Length of Trail: Varies
Cost: Free
Location: 2680 Natchez Trace Parkway Tupelo, MS 38804
Phone: (800) 305-7417
Want more waterfall hiking near Memphis? Head to Natchez Trace Parkway! It’ll be another long drive from the city, but you’ll see Fall Hollow Falls and Jackson Falls. The scenic hikes will make you feel like you’re in an entirely different world, and you’ll surely want to come back for more.
The Fall Hollow Falls trail is an easy walk on rustic bridges over small creeks. When you reach the observation deck, you’ll see the stunning crystal water rushing downhill onto a 20-foot drop. If you want to continue, the surrounding woodlands offer more challenging hikes.
On the other hand, the hike to Jackson Falls is strenuous from the beginning. It’s a steep, short hike down to the river. Even though it’s slippery and tough, the views of the waterfall will be a great reminder of why you love hiking!
Tishomingo State Park
Length of Trail: Varies
Cost: $4 entrance fee; $.50 per person over 6 people
Location: 105 Co Rd 90, Tishomingo, MS 38873, United States
Phone: (662) 438-6914
If you’re over at Natchez Trace Parkway, give yourself a more extraordinary hiking experience and visit the Tishomingo State Park. If there’s anything the state park promises, it’s adventurous scenic hikes! You’ll find various trails here, and each one will give you a different experience.
One of the most popular trails is the Bear Creek Outcropping Trail. You’ll find yourself conquering a giant swinging bridge while you’re surrounded by rock formations and forests! Like the Natchez Trace Parkway trails, the entire state park feels otherworldly.
A Guide to Hiking
Hiking is always exciting, especially for expert hikers who never say no to any trail. But whether you’re an expert or a beginner, there are always tips and tricks to make your hike more memorable and enjoyable.
- Plan your hike. This tip includes knowing the trail’s distance, terrain, and weather conditions. You can use various apps or websites to map out your route. Once you have a plan, share it with a friend or family member in case of an emergency.
- Start early. Hiking during the cooler hours of the day is more comfortable and safer. Hiking in the morning also allows you to see more wildlife.
- Dress in layers. Wearing layers allows you to take off or put on clothing as the temperature changes.
- Wear proper footwear. Make sure your shoes are comfortable and broken in before hitting the trail. Hiking boots are always a good option because they provide ankle support.
- Pack snacks and plenty of water. Hiking can be strenuous, so staying hydrated and fueled is important. Pack high-energy snacks like nuts or granola bars.
- Carry a first-aid kit. It’s always better to be safe than sorry. A first-aid kit should include bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and anything else you might need in case of an injury.
- Be aware of your surroundings. Hiking can be a meditative experience, but staying alert is important. Be mindful of your surroundings and the wildlife that might be present.
- Leave no trace. When you’re finished with your hike, leave the trail as you found it. Pack out your trash and be mindful not to disturb the area.
As much as possible, don’t hike alone. Hiking with a partner or group is not only more fun, but it’s also safer. This tip applies to all hiking adventures in and near Memphis.
Hit the Trail!
Hiking offers a way to explore the great outdoors while getting some exercise. And, depending on where you hike, you might even get to catch some fantastic views! Hiking in Memphis is an excellent activity for all ages and can be as easy or complex as you make it. If you have more time on your hands, hit the best trails for hiking near Memphis, too!
Just imagine the serenity of being one with nature, the fresh air, and the peace of mind that comes with getting away from it all — even if it’s just for a few hours. If you’re in Memphis and want to make the most of your time outdoors, go on a hike! Whichever trail you choose, you’ll surely make some unforgettable memories.
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