Tennessee Outdoors: Top Outdoor Activities in Middle Tennesse

Posted on June 11, 2024

Middle Tennessee is a treasure trove of natural beauty, offering a diverse array of outdoor activities for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. From rolling hills and lush forests to pristine lakes and rivers, this region has something for everyone.

With a focus on the best spots for hiking, camping, water activities, biking, horseback riding and wildlife viewing, let's take a look at the top outdoor activities in Tennessee.

‎ 

‎ 

Hiking and Camping

Middle Tennessee is a hiker's paradise, boasting numerous trails that cater to all skill levels. The region's diverse landscapes offer everything from gentle woodland walks to challenging mountain treks.

Best Hiking Trails

• Radnor Lake State Park: Located just outside Nashville, Radnor Lake offers several miles of trails that meander through beautiful forests and around the serene lake. The trails vary in difficulty, making it accessible for both beginners and experienced hikers.
• Fiery Gizzard Trail: This trail in South Cumberland State Park is renowned for its rugged beauty and challenging terrain. Hikers can enjoy breathtaking views of waterfalls, rock formations, and dense forests along the 13-mile trail.
• Savage Gulf State Natural Area: Known for its deep gorges, stunning overlooks, and cascading waterfalls, Savage Gulf offers an array of trails that provide an immersive experience in nature.

Top Camping Spots

• Mousetail Landing State Park: This park on the Tennessee River offers several camping options, including RV sites, tent sites, and backcountry camping. The park's trails and waterfront access make it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
• Edgar Evins State Park: Located on the shores of Center Hill Lake, Edgar Evins provides a scenic setting for camping. The park offers well-equipped campgrounds and access to hiking trails and water activities.
• Montgomery Bell State Park: With its rich history and beautiful landscapes, Montgomery Bell is a popular spot for campers. The park offers a range of camping options, including primitive sites, RV hookups, and cabins.

When hiking and camping in Middle Tennessee, it's important to respect the environment and follow safety guidelines. Always stay on marked trails, pack out all trash, and be aware of local wildlife.

‎ 

‎ 

Water Activities

Middle Tennessee's lakes and rivers are perfect for a variety of water activities, from fishing and boating to kayaking and canoeing.

Best Lakes and Rivers for Fishing and Boating

• Percy Priest Lake: Just east of Nashville, Percy Priest Lake is a favorite spot for fishing and boating. The lake is stocked with bass, crappie, and catfish, making it a prime location for anglers.
• Old Hickory Lake: Located north of Nashville, Old Hickory Lake offers excellent fishing opportunities and numerous boat ramps. The lake is known for its bass fishing and scenic boating routes.
• Duck River: This river is one of the most biologically diverse in North America and offers fantastic fishing and boating experiences. The slow-moving waters are ideal for a relaxing day on the water.

Top Spots for Kayaking and Canoeing

• Harpeth River State Park: The Harpeth River provides gentle currents and beautiful scenery, making it a popular spot for kayaking and canoeing. The park offers several access points and rental options for watercraft.
• Buffalo River: Known for its clear waters and scenic surroundings, the Buffalo River is a great place for a leisurely paddle. Canoe and kayak rentals are available along the river.
• Caney Fork River: This river is perfect for both beginners and experienced paddlers. The calm waters and stunning landscapes make it a favorite destination for kayaking and canoeing.

Water safety and conservation are paramount when enjoying these activities. Always wear a life jacket, be mindful of weather conditions, and follow local regulations to protect the waterways.

‎ 

‎ 

Cycling and Horseback Riding

Middle Tennessee offers excellent opportunities for cycling and horseback riding, with trails that showcase the region's natural beauty.

Best Bike Trails and Routes

• Natchez Trace Parkway: This scenic route is a cyclist's dream, offering over 400 miles of well-maintained roads through picturesque landscapes. The parkway is perfect for long-distance rides and leisurely tours.
• Shelby Bottoms Greenway: Located in Nashville, this greenway offers a network of paved trails that wind through lush forests and along the Cumberland River. It's an ideal spot for both casual and serious cyclists.

Top Horseback Riding Trails and Stables

• Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area: This area offers some of the best horseback riding trails in the region, with miles of well-marked paths through diverse terrain. The park also provides equestrian campsites and stables.
• Cedars of Lebanon State Park: Known for its unique landscape of cedar glades, this park offers several trails for horseback riding. The park's stables provide rentals and guided rides.
• Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area: This vast area offers numerous trails for horseback riding, as well as facilities for camping with horses. The trails provide a mix of wooded paths and open fields, perfect for exploring on horseback.

Safety gear and responsible trail use are essential for both cycling and horseback riding. Always wear a helmet, follow trail etiquette, and respect other users and wildlife.

‎ 

‎ 

Wildlife Viewing and Photography

Middle Tennessee's diverse ecosystems provide excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing and photography. The region's forests, wetlands, and open spaces are home to a wide variety of species.

Best Spots for Wildlife Viewing and Photography

• Reelfoot Lake State Park: Known for its unique cypress swamp, Reelfoot Lake is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. The park offers excellent opportunities for birdwatching, particularly for viewing bald eagles.
• Radnor Lake State Park: This park is a wildlife sanctuary and offers visitors the chance to see deer, otters, and a variety of bird species. The park's trails provide great vantage points for photography.

Top Birdwatching Locations and Species

• Tennessee National Wildlife Refuge: This refuge is a key location for birdwatching, particularly during migration seasons. Visitors can see a variety of waterfowl, songbirds, and raptors.
• Bledsoe Creek State Park: Known for its birdwatching opportunities, this park provides habitats for a range of species, including herons, kingfishers, and woodpeckers.
• Hiwassee Wildlife Refuge: This refuge is famous for its winter population of sandhill cranes. Birdwatchers can also spot eagles, hawks, and numerous waterfowl species.

Respecting wildlife and their habitats is crucial for conservation. Always observe animals from a distance, avoid disturbing their environment, and follow guidelines for responsible wildlife viewing.

‎ 

‎ 

Conclusion

Middle Tennessee offers an abundance of outdoor activities that cater to nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. From hiking and camping to water activities, cycling, horseback riding, and wildlife viewing, there is no shortage of opportunities to explore the great outdoors.

At Piney Creek Acres, we are dedicated to helping you find the perfect piece of land to enjoy these outdoor adventures. We offer large, buildable acreage lots at fair prices in Middle Tennessee, with close proximity to attractions like Rockwood Airport, Flatrock Motorsports Park, and the shopping and entertainment of Knoxville, Gatlinburg, and Nashville.

To learn more about our offerings or to get in touch, please contact us at (931) 345-3230 or email us at [email protected]. Let us help you discover the perfect spot for your Tennessee adventures!