It’s FINALLY that time of year again where spending hours outside is not only expected but encouraged, and you can pack up that picnic basket and take a hike with a chicken sandwich waiting at the end of it. Could things get better than this…? We’re going to say no. Here are seven of the best hikes near Nashville that lead to the perfect picnic spots.

7. Percy Warner Park
50 Vaughn Rd, Nashville, TN 37221, USA
Michael Hicks - Flickr
There are multiple picnic shelters at Percy Warner Park that you can reserve ahead of time (perfect for a birthday party?), especially after a jaunt down Mossy Ridge Trail. The Warner Woods Trail is also a great option if you're looking for something shorter, at only 2.5 miles long. You'll find some of the best hikes near Nashville at Percy Warner Park.

Visit the Nashville.gov website to learn more about Percy Warner Park in Nashville.
6. Edwin Warner Park
50 Vaughn Rd, Nashville, TN 37221, USA
Michael Hicks - Flickr
Another Warner Park?! Yep, another Warner Park. The Warner Parks actually sit right next to each other, sharing land and trails. If you meander over to Edwin's side of the world, you can also find a picnic shelter for a breezy lunch after your hike.

Read our previous coverage to learn more about hiking at Edwin Warner Park in Nashville.
5. Cheekwood Botanical Gardens
Cheekwood, 1200 Forrest Park Dr, Nashville, TN 37205, USA
Michael Hicks - Flickr
This isn't a hike! Yeah, yeah we hear you - it's not technically a hike. But your long walk through the gardens will give you the infusion of cardio you need (your Fitbit or smartwatch will thank us) and the plethora of picnic spots make for a most picturesque lunchtime activity. Address: 1200 Forrest Park Drive, Nashville, TN

Read our previous coverage to learn more about Cheekwood Botanical Gardens in Nashville.

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4. Stones River Greenway
Stones River Greenway, Nashville, TN, USA
patchattack - Flickr
Stones River Greenway is a great paved area for walking or biking, and there are multiple benches and picnic tables that make for a solid impromptu meal spot. Plus, the bridge (pictured here) is a couple of miles down the main trail and it's BEAUTIFUL. Well worth the hills and meandering trails, this is one of the most scenic hikes in Nashville. There are multiple places to access the trail, so plan accordingly!

Read our previous coverage to learn more about Stones River Greenway in Nashville.
3. Long Hunter State Park
Day Loop Trail Orange, Hermitage, TN 37076, USA
Michael Hicks - Flickr
Long Hunter State Park is a beautiful place, tucked away in the forested expanse of Tennessee's backwoods. There's only one picnic shelter here, but the twenty-five miles of hiking trails will make you so hungry you won't even care. You'll find some of the best hikes near Nashville here. Address: 2910 Hobson Pike, Hermitage, TN

Read our previous coverage to learn about one incredible hike at Long Hunter State Park.
2. Shelby Bottoms Park & Nature Center
Shelby Park Greenway, Nashville, TN 37206, USA
Brian Dailey - Flickr
Shelby Bottoms is preferable for young families or bicyclists, where your kids can visit the nature center or you and your loved ones can meander the greenway that runs along the Cumberland River. You can find a picnic spot pretty much anywhere - the park is simply stunning. Any trail here will be one of the most scenic hikes in Nashville you can take.

Read our previous coverage to learn about Shelby Bottoms Park & Nature Center in Nashville.
1. The Natchez Trace
Natchez Trace, Nashville, TN, USA
Sydney Harper - Flickr
The Natchez Trace is a historic area just south of Nashville, rife with hiking trails and picturesque picnic spots. Gather your darling on a bench somewhere or wrangle your kids into a clearing, but either way, a visit is well worth the time and effort. There are picnic areas scattered throughout the park, so pick your favorite and enjoy that deli sandwich.

Visit The Natchez Trace Travel website for more information.

Have you been on any of these best hikes near Nashville? There are so many lovely places to go on a picnic – can you choose just one? Once you get back to work on Monday (sigh) you can make a bright light of things with these Mouthwatering Lunch Destinations In Downtown Nashville That Won’t Break The Bank.

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More to Explore

Best Hikes Near Nashville

Melissa M. | April 16, 2022

What are the most picturesque hiking trails in and around Nashville?

Want to experience some of the most beautiful places around Nashville? Well, take a hike around Radnor Lake where you can take in spectacular water views. With over 10 miles of trails, the Cedars of Lebanon State Park offers fascinating rock formations along the way. You can read about several additional best hikes near Nashville in our previous coverage.

Which state parks should I visit in and around Nashville?

Did you know that there are several state parks in and around Nashville to explore? It’s true! From the Cedars at Lebanon State Park to Long Hunter State Park, you can easily escape the city and head into nature to recharge.

Are there any waterfall hikes near Nashville?

Hiking is great and all, but hiking to a waterfall is simply the best! Take a trail to West Meade Waterfall found in Nashville’s West Meade neighborhood or head to Cummins Falls State Park to view the eighth largest waterfall in the state. No matter what waterfall hike you do, it will be one to remember!

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