Memphis has some great places to walk, hike, and enjoy the outdoors year-round.
Now is the time to hit the trails and experience some new places around town. From routes crisscrossing the city to paths along the riverside, check out these 12 Memphis trails that are perfect for your outdoor adventures.
- Hours: Sunrise to Sunset
- Location: Click here for maps and access points.
The Greenline is arguably Memphis’ most impressive and well-known trail. Spanning over 10 miles, the trail links Midtown to Cordova through Shelby Farms with several access points along the way. You’ll see bikers, walkers, and runners out on the Greenline, and you can enjoy the fun in the park along the way.
- Hours: Sunrise to sunset
- Location: Click here for directions to the park.
And speaking of Shelby Farms Park, she’s our city’s largest park and is home to over 40 miles of both paved and unpaved trails. These trails give hikers a chance to explore everything the park has to offer, from lakes to woods to fields. While the unpaved trails may be a little harder to navigate, any one of the park’s walkways is sure to provide just the journey you’ve been looking for. Pro Tip: Pack a lunch to eat at one of the park’s many pavilions.
- Hours: 6AM – 8PM March 15 – Oct. 31// 6AM-6PM Nov. 1 – March 14.
- Location: Click here for a list of access points.
This gorgeous Greenway runs along protected green spaces adjacent to the Wolf River—and the wide path perfectly accommodates both bikers and walkers.
- Hours: Open sunrise to 10PM
- Location:
- Access from Channel 3 Drive/Virginia Ave W
- Street parking available on Channel 3 Drive
- Lot parking available in Martyrs Park lot
Big River Crossing is the longest, public pedestrian/bike bridge across the Mississippi River, providing dramatic views of its ever-changing landscape. By connecting Main Streets in Memphis and West Memphis, the BRX ties together urban, rural, and natural areas giving users recreation options unique to each setting.
- Hours: 6AM-10PM
- Location: Click here for a map of the Riverfront.
There are several parks linked together along the river, from Beale Street Landing past Tom Lee Park. These paved paths not only provide scenic views of the river and Downtown, but they’re also a great place to watch the sunset. Pro Tip: When you want to try out something other than walking, check out the RiverFit exercise equipment or Island Play at Beale Street Landing for the kids.
- Hours: 6AM-10PM
- Location: Click here to see the park on a map.
Due to its location, the Greenbelt Park on Mud Island is a bit more secluded than the other Downtown parks, but it’s the perfect setting to take a breather at one of the trail’s benches, and watch the barges float by The flat, paved sidewalk runs the length of the park beside the river.
7. Overton Park
- Hours: 6AM- 7:30PM
- Location: Click here for a list of park entrances.
Overton Park, home to the Memphis Zoo and Levitt Shell, is a 342-acre park and another one of the city’s green treasures. The Old Forest Trail inside the park features over 6 miles of varying courses that wind between 100-year-old trees, and take you away from the city (mentally). Pro Tip: Once you’re done with your hike, relax on the grass on the Greensward.
8. Audubon Park
- Location: 4145 Southern Ave
Located near the University of Memphis, Audubon Park is in a good location for those looking to work some quality outdoors time into their busy schedule. The park has a one-mile-long fitness trail, picnic areas, and tennis courts. Pro Tip: Once you finish the trail, head over to the nearby Memphis Botanic Garden and admire the blooms.
- Hours: Sunrise to sunset
- Location: 1500 West Mitchell Road
As the only state park located within city limits, T.O. Fuller State Park has over 8 miles of walking trails, an Olympic-size pool, and recreation area. Due to its size and diverse terrain, hikers on both the park’s paved and unpaved trails have many opportunities to spot wildlife. Hike the 4-mile loop of the Discovery trail to see the Chucalissa Indian Village exhibit, and for $6 visit the museum.
- Hours: 7AM – 10PM
- Location: 910 Riddick Road, Millington
A great park for avid hikers, Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park has over 20 miles of hiking trails. Trails vary in length, winding through the forest and around lakes. Some of the trails are even horse friendly. The park is 13 miles north of Memphis, but the abundance of wildlife and outdoor experiences available here make it worth the drive out.
- Hours: 1/2 hour before sunrise to 1/2 hour after sunset
- Location: 1295 Fisherville Rd, Collierville
Located just north outside of Collierville, Herb Parsons Lake may be a bit of a drive for most Memphians, but it provides a hiking experience that’s different than any in the city. The 6-mile-long trail winds through the woods along the lake, which is largely used for fishing. The trail can be narrow at places, making it a bit more technical, but the lake views and closer connection to nature act as a well deserved prize for your perseverance.
- Hours: 4AM to 11PM
- Location: 5760 Yale Rd, Memphis, TN 38135
Stanky Creek Trail is a 9-mile, moderately trafficked loop trail located near Bartlett, Tennessee that features beautiful wild flowers, and three different trail options. The trail offers a number of activity options, is accessible year-round, and is dog friendly too!
