Fifteen years ago, an abandoned railbed was transformed into a path of possibility.
Since opening in 2010, the Shelby Farms Greenline has connected people, neighborhoods, and nature like never before. What began in 2004 as a bold idea by a group of forward thinking and engaged Memphians is now one of Tennessee’s most beloved trails—a vital artery that helps Memphians move, breathe, and thrive.
Stretching more than 10 miles from Midtown to Cordova (with nearly three additional miles being added later this summer bringing the total trail length to nearly 13 miles), the Greenline has become more than just a trail. It’s a connector. It links communities to opportunity, runners to peace of mind, cyclists to their next adventure, and neighbors to one another. Every day, it fosters physical wellness, emotional recharge, and social connection.
That’s why 15 years of the Greenline deserves more than just a birthday. It deserves a Trail-a-Bration!
Kicking things off: The Buffalo Run 5K + 15K Presented by Kroger Health | Saturday, September 27
Whether you’re walking, jogging, or running full speed ahead, The Buffalo Run 5K + 15K Presented by Kroger Health is your chance to celebrate the Greenline with every step. Choose your pace, grab some swag, and enjoy a party at the finish line. Not a runner? Sign up as a ghost runner, score the cool shirt and still support the Greenline!
Early bird registration ends July 31, so sign up now!
Trail Mixers | Select Saturdays in September + October
We’re teaming up with beloved local businesses along the Greenline to throw Trail Mixers—mini block parties with big energy! From live music and giveaways to food + drink specials, each Trail Mixer brings the birthday vibes to a neighborhood near you. You can hit one or join them all!
Birthday Bash Presented by Park Place at Shelby Farms | Saturday, October 25
After weeks of trail-side fun, it all culminates at the Greenline 15 Birthday Bash at Shelby Farms Park. We’re talking live music, food trucks, a beer garden, kids’ zone, and good vibes all around. It’s a party 15 years in the making—and you’re invited.
Behind the Scenes: The Greenline’s Heartbeat
While the Greenline began as a grassroots dream of a few, its ongoing care and evolution are now stewarded by Shelby Farms Park Conservancy.
As the nonprofit that manages, maintains, and protects both Shelby Farms Park and the Greenline, the Conservancy makes sure the trail stays clean, clear, and open for everyone—every day.
Why Your Support Matters
None of this happens without community support. The Greenline is free to use, but not free to maintain. Every donation helps keep the trail safe, beautiful, and accessible for all.
If you’ve walked it, biked it, run it, or loved it—consider giving back. Let’s celebrate what connects us.
The Greenline isn’t just where we run, ride, or walk. It’s where we reconnect—to ourselves, to others, and to the city we call home.
Stay in the know with all the event info and celebration news by signing up here!
Help us celebrate the miles, memories, and momentum! Make a birthday donation to support your favorite trail.
Join us for one event or all of them, and let’s celebrate 15 years of the trail that keeps Memphis moving.
This blog was written by Torie Finch
Torie Finch is a writer and communications specialist. A proud Memphian with a passion for storytelling, she blends creativity, culture, and community to highlight what makes the 901 shine. By day, she’s the Communications Coordinator for the nonprofit Shelby Farms Park Conservancy. By night, she’s working on novels and nurturing both words and a family—with the hopes of turning them all into a beautiful story.
