TOP 10 Best Public hiking trails in Memphis, Tennessee

Shelby Farms Dog Park, located in Memphis, Tennessee, is a popular destination for pups and their owners. While dogs must be kept on-leash in most areas of the park, The Outback offers over 100 acres of off-leash fun for dogs to explore. This multi-use area includes open fields, ponds, and unpaved trails for dogs to run and play freely. Visitors can expect to encounter other park-goers such as cyclists, hikers, and horses while enjoying the off-leash area. Gates 11, 12, and 13 provide access to The Outback, which is open daily from sunrise to sunset. Amenities in this area include a water fountain with a doggie bowl and a dog wash station for convenience. Additionally, visitors have the option to honor or remember a beloved pet with a personalized paver stone at the dog park.

Big River Crossing is a stunning park located in Memphis, Tennessee, offering visitors the opportunity to walk or cycle across the longest public pedestrian and cyclist bridge spanning the Mississippi River. With panoramic views of the Memphis skyline, Arkansas floodplains, and the mighty Mississippi, this institution is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. Managed by the Big River Park Conservancy, a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving the wetlands of the Mississippi River and promoting recreational activities in the region, Big River Crossing serves as a vital connection between Main Street in Memphis and Main Street in West Memphis. This 10-mile corridor also includes Ducks Unlimited Park and the Big River Trail System, providing access to various attractions in the delta region. Don't miss the opportunity to experience the beauty and serenity of Big River Crossing during your visit to Memphis.

The Wolf River Greenway - Shady Grove Trailhead is a part of the Wolf River Conservancy, located at 6324 Humphreys Boulevard in Memphis, Tennessee. This park and tourist attraction offers a beautiful paved pathway for pedestrians and cyclists to enjoy. As part of a public/private partnership, the trail will eventually extend 26 miles to connect over 22 neighborhoods in Memphis, all the way from Mud Island to Shelby Farms Park, Germantown, and Collierville. Currently, 14 miles of the trail are open to the public. The Shady Grove Trailhead is a great starting point for exploring the Wolf River Greenway, providing a parking lot for visitors. The trail offers a scenic experience along the Wolf River, with sections like the Mud Island, Hollywood, Epping Way, Kennedy Park, and Wolf Crossing offering different landscapes and attractions. The East Section of the trail is also open, providing a natural experience near the flowing river.

Tiger Lane is a vibrant and bustling park located at 335 South Hollywood Street in Memphis, Tennessee, United States. This sprawling green space is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike, offering a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. With lush greenery, walking paths, and recreational facilities, Tiger Lane provides the perfect setting for picnics, outdoor activities, and relaxation. Whether you're looking to enjoy a leisurely stroll, play sports with friends, or simply unwind in nature, Tiger Lane is the ideal spot to spend a day outdoors.

The Wolf River Refuge Trailhead is located on South Walnut Bend Road in Memphis, Tennessee, United States. This park is a part of the Wolf River Conservancy, which is dedicated to protecting and enhancing the Wolf River and its watershed as a sustainable natural resource. The Wolf River Greenway, a protected green space along the river, includes a paved pathway for non-ICE transportation. By supporting the Wolf River Conservancy, you are contributing to the conservation and protection of this important natural resource for current and future generations. The institution offers educational programs and outreach opportunities for the community to learn more about the Wolf River and its surroundings. Your gift to the Wolf River Conservancy positively impacts the community and helps to preserve this valuable ecosystem.

Old Forest State Natural Area is a serene and picturesque park located in Memphis, Tennessee, United States. This natural area is a popular tourist attraction for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. With its lush greenery, towering trees, and peaceful atmosphere, visitors can enjoy a relaxing stroll or hike through the beautiful forest trails. The Old Forest State Natural Area is a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, offering a tranquil setting to connect with nature and unwind. Whether you're looking to birdwatch, picnic, or simply enjoy the beauty of the great outdoors, this hidden gem is a must-visit destination in Memphis.

Wolf River Greenway - Epping Way is a beautiful park located at 2630 Epping Way Drive in Memphis, Tennessee, United States. This institution is part of the Wolf River Conservancy and features a paved pathway for pedestrians and cyclists to enjoy. The Greenway is a public/private partnership between the Wolf River Conservancy, Memphis Parks, and Shelby County, with 14 miles of the planned 26-mile trail currently open to the public. The Epping Way section of the Wolf River Greenway Trail system is situated on 138 acres of scenic riverfront property owned by the Wolf River Conservancy. This section includes a 20-acre lake, 1.2 miles of pedestrian trails, and two picturesque bridges. Visitors can enjoy photo opportunities as they walk alongside the lake, with bluebird houses providing homes for beautiful bluebirds fluttering past. A 60-foot floating boat dock was installed on the lake in August 2019, which will become a hub for paddling activities once the Greenway is completed.

Bert Ferguson Park is a beautiful and peaceful park located at 8505 Trinity Road in Memphis, Tennessee. This popular tourist attraction offers a variety of amenities for visitors to enjoy, including walking trails, playgrounds, picnic areas, and sports facilities. The park is a great place to relax and unwind, surrounded by nature and greenery. Whether you're looking to take a leisurely stroll, have a family picnic, or play a game of basketball, Bert Ferguson Park has something for everyone to enjoy.

The C.H. Nash Museum at Chucalissa, located in Memphis, Tennessee, offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and explore the vibrant culture of Native Americans who lived in the region 500 to 1,000 years ago. Visitors can tour a fully furnished replica house, hike the nature trail through the arboretum, and view drone footage of the Chucalissa National Historic Landmark. Operated by the University of Memphis, the museum also features exhibits on the prehistoric and historic occupations of the region, a hands-on archaeology laboratory, and a certified arboretum showcasing plant species used for medicinal and other ancient purposes. The site, which includes earthen mounds believed to have been constructed by the Mississippian culture, serves as a training ground for archaeologists and a place for the public to learn more about the science of archaeology. Plan a trip today to discover the rich history of the Mid-South and immerse yourself in the fascinating world of the Native Americans who once called this area home.

Chickasaw Trailhead, located on Great View Drive North in Memphis, Tennessee, is a park with both indoor and outdoor venues suitable for all sizes and budgets. Start your Earth Day celebrations with a fun run around Hyde Lake, surrounded by the beauty of Shelby Farms Park and Shelby Farms Greenline. These special places are maintained thanks to the generosity of donors to the nonprofit Shelby Farms Park Conservancy. Visit the First Horizon Foundation Visitor Center in the Heart of the Park for all your park essentials, gifts, and snacks, with proceeds benefiting Shelby Farms Park and Shelby Farms Greenline. With 4,500 acres of green space and 10.65 miles of urban trail, this park is a community treasure unlike any other in the United States.

Robinhood Park is a vibrant community institution nestled in the heart of Memphis, Tennessee. Located at 3717 Robin Park Circle, this park offers a peaceful and scenic environment for individuals and families to enjoy. With lush greenery, walking trails, and recreational facilities, Robinhood Park is the perfect place to unwind and connect with nature. Whether you're looking to relax with a picnic, go for a jog, or play a game of basketball, this park has something for everyone. Come visit Robinhood Park and experience the beauty and tranquility it has to offer.