The best walks and hikes around Memphis

Memphis and its surrounding areas offer a wide variety of hiking experiences, with over 30 routes available on komoot. These trails range from easy strolls through urban parks to more challenging paths in state forests, catering to all skill levels.

Yes, Memphis has many easy trails perfect for beginners and families. For instance, the Mississippi River Greenbelt Park Path offers a flat, paved experience with river views. Another great option is the Chickasaw Trail loop — Shelby Farms Park, which winds through woodlands and open spaces.

The best seasons for hiking in Memphis are typically spring and fall. Spring brings beautiful wildflowers and blooming trees, while fall offers spectacular foliage, especially in parks like Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park. Summers can be hot and humid, and winters are generally mild, allowing for year-round hiking, though some trails might be muddy after rain.

Absolutely. The Big River Crossing via Harahan Bridge — Memphis, Tennessee offers unparalleled panoramic views of the Mississippi River and the city skyline. Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park also features trails with scenic overlooks, particularly those near Poplar Tree Lake and the Chickasaw Bluff Trail.

Many parks and trails in Memphis are dog-friendly, provided your pet is on a leash. Shelby Farms Park, for example, is a popular choice for dog owners, offering extensive trails and even an off-leash dog park area. Always check specific park regulations before you go.

Memphis offers several excellent circular routes. The Tour de Wolf Trail loop — Wolf River Nature Area is a moderate 5.6-mile loop popular for its rolling hills and diverse landscapes. Another option is the Old Forest Loop in Overton Park, a 2.1-mile shaded path through an old-growth forest.

For a less crowded experience, consider exploring trails slightly outside the immediate city center. T.O. Fuller State Park, the only state park within Memphis city limits, offers over 8 miles of trails that are often quieter. Stanky Creek (Nesbit Park) also provides 9 miles of trails through dense woodlands that are popular but can offer more solitude than larger urban parks.

Memphis trails offer opportunities for wildlife spotting, especially in larger natural areas. Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park is known for its abundant wildlife, including deer, wild turkeys, and various bird species. Overton Park's Old Forest is a haven for birdwatchers, with over 166 bird species identified. You might also encounter smaller mammals and various reptiles.

Yes, some trails offer access to historical and cultural sites. The 4-mile Chucalissa Archaeological Discovery Trail within T.O. Fuller State Park leads directly to the Chucalissa village, a significant historical site. While not directly on a hiking trail, many of Memphis's iconic attractions like Beale Street or the National Civil Rights Museum are easily accessible from downtown areas after a riverside walk.

The hiking experiences around Memphis are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars. Reviewers often praise the accessibility of nature within the city, the diverse landscapes ranging from old-growth forests to riverside paths, and the well-maintained trails that cater to various fitness levels.

Memphis offers numerous trails along its waterways. The Wolf River Greenway provides wide paths adjacent to the Wolf River, and the Hyde Lake loop — Shelby Farms Park offers beautiful views of Hyde Lake. Further afield, the Herb Parsons Lake Loop Trail winds through woods along Herb Parsons Lake, providing a serene setting for hiking and birdwatching.