The best walks and hikes around Smyrna

The Bryant Grove Trail offers a delightful escape into nature, tracing the shores of Percy Priest Lake through a mix of dense woodlands and open, sun-drenched limestone glades. You'll encounter a variety of surfaces, from soft dirt paths to rocky sections and even wooden boardwalks, all while enjoying glimpses of the lake and crossing Bryant Grove Creek. This moderate 8.0-mile (12.8 km) out-and-back hike, with a gentle 113 feet (34 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 3 hours and 15 minutes, making it a perfect choice for a longer, scenic walk.

To plan your visit, head to the Couchville Lake Trail parking lot, where you'll find convenient amenities like restrooms and picnic areas right at the trailhead. This trail is well-suited for a leisurely day out, especially during spring when wildflowers are abundant, or on warmer days thanks to its extensive tree cover. Just remember, for the preservation of its unique habitats, pets are not allowed on the Bryant Grove Trail.

What truly sets this route apart is its ecological diversity, particularly the rare limestone glades that host a unique array of flora, including spider lilies and prickly pear cactus. It's also a fantastic spot for wildlife spotting, with deer and various bird species like warblers and vireos frequently seen, especially around the one-mile marker. The trail provides a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural beauty and biodiversity of Long Hunter State Park.

The Boundary Trail offers a peaceful, easy walk through the historically significant Stones River Battlefield. This route provides a chance to connect with the past while enjoying a gentle path, perfect for a reflective outing. You'll experience a quiet journey through a landscape that tells a story, with the highlight being the battlefield itself, rather than dramatic elevation changes or rugged terrain.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail is located within a historical park. Parking is generally available at the Stones River Battlefield visitor center or other designated lots within the park. This 2.8-mile (4.6 km) hike, with only 44 feet (13 metres) of elevation gain, is rated easy and takes about 1 hour and 9 minutes, making it an excellent choice for a quick, accessible excursion. Spring and fall are particularly pleasant for this trail.

While many trails share the name "Boundary Trail," this specific route in Rutherford County stands out for its historical context rather than its physical challenge. Unlike the strenuous, long-distance Boundary Trails found in places like Gifford Pinchot National Forest, this one focuses on accessibility and historical immersion. It's a great option for families or anyone looking for a short, meaningful walk without significant physical demands.

The Jones Mill Orange Loop offers a delightful journey through Long Hunter State Park, showcasing a unique blend of sparse cedar forests and vibrant limestone glades. You will encounter singletrack paths with a natural mix of rocks and roots, leading you to Bald Knob, the park's highest point, which provides sweeping panoramic views of J. Percy Priest Lake. In spring, the glades burst with wildflowers, including Gattinger's Prairie Clover and Glade Stonecrop, making for a truly picturesque hike.

This easy 3.4-mile (5.5 km) loop, with a gentle 75 feet (23 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 1 hour and 25 minutes to complete. The trail is known for draining exceptionally well, so you can often enjoy it even after recent rain. While it is a multi-use trail, hikers should be mindful of mountain bikers. Parking is readily available at the trailhead, but consider an early start to secure your spot.

Beyond the scenic views, the Jones Mill Orange Loop is rich in natural features and history. You might spot common loons from the bluff or even bald eagles, and the trail passes remnants of a "slave wall" and small sinkholes, adding layers of interest to your outing. The unique limestone glades are a significant ecological feature, supporting a diverse array of plant life that thrives in this specific environment.

The Sharp Springs loop in Smyrna offers a delightful and accessible nature walk, perfect for a relaxed outing. This easy 3.1-mile (5.0 km) hiking trail features a gentle 43 feet (13 metres) of elevation gain, taking approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to complete. You'll wander through lush woodlands, past scenic ponds and wetlands, on a mix of paved, gravel, and natural paths, with chances to observe local wildlife like deer and herons within the Sharp Springs Natural Area.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the trail is part of Sharp Springs Park, which provides convenient amenities like restrooms and picnic sites. The route is particularly family-friendly, with some sections even suitable for strollers, making it an excellent choice for beginners or those seeking a low-impact outdoor activity. Parking is readily available, and the well-maintained trails are enjoyable throughout the year.

This loop stands out as a peaceful natural escape close to home, encompassing a portion of the 360-acre Sharp Springs Natural Area. Beyond the hiking, the park also boasts an 18-hole disc golf course, adding another recreational option. It's a great spot to immerse yourself in nature and enjoy a tranquil ambiance without venturing far from urban conveniences.

The Sunset Road Multiuse Path in Nolensville, TN, offers a wonderfully accessible and easy outing, perfect for a relaxed walk or a family bike ride. This paved asphalt path stretches for 3.1 miles (5.0 km) with a mere 51 feet (16 metres) of elevation gain, making it a smooth journey through a pleasant suburban setting. You'll pass by local schools and the Williamson County Recreation Center, experiencing a route designed for community connection rather than rugged wilderness.

Planning your visit is simple, with ample parking available at the Williamson County Recreation Center. The path is part of Nolensville's broader investment in multiuse paths, providing a safe alternative for students and residents to access local amenities. It's a great choice for a quick, easy escape outdoors, especially if you're looking for family friendly hikes in the area.

This multiuse path is more than just a trail; it's a crucial piece of Nolensville's infrastructure, fostering a non-driving alternative for daily commutes and recreation. While the overall route is 3.1 miles, the path itself is a 1.3-mile segment that connects various community points. It's an excellent example of urban planning focused on pedestrian and cyclist safety, offering a practical and enjoyable way to explore the town.