Hiking trails and the outdoors have always been near and dear to my heart. I grew up in California in an area surrounded by either undeveloped private lands or lands owned by the BLM (Bureau of Land Management). I spent countless hours in my teens and 20s exploring those areas—following 4×4 trails, building forts out of tumbleweeds, and sitting quietly to watch the sunset over the hills. Today, I’m fortunate to get to do the same kind of thing exploring Tennessee, where the landscape is lush, the trails are plentiful, and the sense of discovery is just as rewarding.
One of my favorite local trails is the Cumberland River Bicentennial Trail, located in Ashland City, Cheatham County, Tennessee. If you’re looking for an easy-to-reach nature escape just outside of Nashville, this is a fantastic choice. It’s family-friendly, stroller-friendly (at least in part), and gives you a glimpse into both the natural and industrial history of Middle Tennessee.
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Exploring Tennessee: What Is the Cumberland River Bicentennial Trail?
The Cumberland River Bicentennial Trail is a 7-mile, multi-use trail that follows the path of the old Tennessee Central Railroad along the Cumberland River. This unique location means you’ll walk over historic bridges, past creeks and waterfalls, and through thick groves of native Tennessee plant life. In fact, many of these plants are labeled with small plaques, making the trail a great educational experience—especially for families with kids interested in exploring Tennessee.
The trail is divided into two primary sections:
- The first 3 miles are paved, making them ideal for strollers, wheelchairs, and casual walking or jogging.
- The remaining 4 miles transition into a gravel and dirt path, better suited for mountain biking or hiking with sturdier footwear.
The Good: Why I Recommend This Trail
1. Family-Friendly Access
As a dad, I’m always scouting for trails I can bring my kid along on. The paved portion of this trail is smooth, wide, and easy to navigate with a stroller. It’s a great spot for little legs learning to walk or bike. Plus, there’s something special about sharing my love of nature with my child in a place this peaceful.
2. Easy to Reach
This trail is only about 30 minutes from downtown Nashville, which makes it perfect for a quick weekend outing or spontaneous day trip. There’s ample parking at the trailheads, and the whole place is well-maintained.
3. Rich Natural Surroundings
The trail takes you through a mix of shaded woods, creeks, and small waterfalls. There’s a quiet charm in just listening to the water trickle down a rock face or watching sunlight flicker through a tunnel of trees. One of my favorite moments on this trail was spotting not one, but two eastern box turtles slowly making their way across the gravel path. My kid was fascinated—we sat there for a while just watching them move, totally in awe of these little shelled explorers. Moments like that are what make hiking feel like magic.
4. History Underfoot
Following the old Tennessee Central Railroad gives this trail a historical flavor that sets it apart. Some of the original rail bridges are still intact and have been repurposed as pedestrian crossings. You’re literally walking in the tracks of Tennessee’s past.
The Bad: What to Be Aware Of
1. Summer Foliage Can Block the Views
I walked this trail in June, and while the greenery is beautiful, it also means that the river views are mostly hidden. I imagine things open up a lot more in the fall or winter, once the leaves drop. That said, the thick tree cover creates a natural tunnel that’s pretty cool to walk through—like nature’s version of a secret passage.
2. High Humidity and Bugs
Because the trail hugs the Cumberland River and runs through a few swampy patches, the humidity can be intense, and the mosquitoes are relentless—especially during the summer months. If you’re new to hiking in the South, it’s a good idea to pack some patience… and some strong bug spray.
Suggestions for First-Time Visitors
If you’re planning your first hike along the Cumberland River Bicentennial Trail, here are a few tips to make your trip more enjoyable:
- Bring Bug Repellent: Something with DEET or Picaridin works best. Trust me, you’ll need it.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: If you plan to go beyond the paved section, you’ll want something with grip.
- Pack Water and Snacks: There are no refill stations on the trail, so come prepared. A little trail mix and a big bottle of water go a long way.
- Dress in Layers and Bring a Rain Jacket: Tennessee weather is a bit of a wildcard. I’ve started hikes under blue skies and finished in a downpour.
- Start Early or Late: Especially in the summer, mid-day heat can be brutal. Morning or late afternoon hikes are much more enjoyable.
Final Thoughts
The Cumberland River Bicentennial Trail is one of those special places where nature, history, and accessibility come together. Whether you’re a local just looking to get outside for a few hours, a parent hoping to pass on a love for the outdoors, or someone visiting Tennessee in search of an off-the-beaten-path experience—this trail won’t disappoint.
It has its drawbacks, sure—bugs, heat, and some limited views in the summer—but none of that outweighs the peace, the beauty, and the chance to connect with the wild just a short drive from the city. I’ll definitely be heading back in the fall to check out the changing colors and, hopefully, spot a few more turtles along the way while exploring Tennessee.
Have you hiked the Cumberland River Bicentennial Trail? Got a favorite trail snack or gear recommendation? Drop a comment—I’d love to hear from fellow hikers!
Looking for some suggestion to help you while exploring Tennessee? Check out some of my other posts Here!
