Hey Kids, take a hike!
Parenting is TOUGH and at some point you may find yourself shouting, “Hey kids! Take a hike!” Before you toss your stir crazy kiddos out, how about kicking the whole family outside?! Grab your backpacks, pack some snacks (and maybe a toy or two to keep the peace), and let’s hit the trails! Here are ten fantastic hikes across Tennessee that are perfect for children, all under 2 miles. Because let’s be honest, hiking with kids is all about keeping it fun, active, adventurous —and short!
If these outdoor wonders are a bit of a drive from you, make the most of each moment together (and avoid some of the “are we there yets?”) with this list of simple roadtrip games for all ages!
1. Radnor Lake State Park – Lake Trail- Nashville, TN
- Distance: 1.1 miles (loop)
- Time: About 30-40 minutes
- What to See: A serene lake, turtles sunbathing, and a chance to spot deer. Keep your eyes peeled; they’re sneakier than a toddler trying to avoid bedtime!
- Start/End: Park at the main lot and follow the trail around the lake.
- Fun Factor: Bring binoculars for some serious wildlife spotting—perfect for those “Look, Mom!” moments!
2. Frozen Head State Park – Emory Gap Trail- Wartburg, TN
- Distance: 1.6 miles (out and back)
- Time: 1 hour
- What to See: A beautiful stream, a small waterfall, and the chance to practice your “wildlife whisperer” skills.
- Start/End: Trailhead is just off the main road. Easy peasy!
- Fun Factor: The kids can make a “waterfall appreciation” club while splashing around—water shoes encouraged!
3. Montgomery Bell State Park – Oak Ridge Trail- Burns, TN
- Distance: 1.5 miles (loop)
- Time: 40-50 minutes
- What to See: Lush forests, wildlife, and perhaps a squirrel or two planning their next acorn heist.
- Start/End: From the Visitor Center, just follow the signs!
- Fun Factor: Create a scavenger hunt! See who can find the most interesting leaf or coolest rock.
4. Shelby Farms Greenline – Connector Trail- Memphis, TN
- Distance: 2 miles (out and back)
- Time: About 1 hour
- What to See: Scenic views of the park, open fields, and plenty of bike traffic (which means you’ll get to practice dodging like a pro!).
- Start/End: Starts at the main entrance and goes to the lake.
- Fun Factor: Bring a scooter or a trike; it’s a great way to get them moving (and hopefully tiring them out for later)!
5. Dolly Parton’s Stampede – Nature Trail- Sevierville, TN
- Distance: 1 mile (loop)
- Time: 30-40 minutes
- What to See: Beautiful views, fun farm animals, and if you’re lucky, some live entertainment (chicken races, anyone?).
- Start/End: Starts right at the Stampede and loops back.
- Fun Factor: Have the kids channel their inner cowboy or cowgirl—hats encouraged!
6. Bledsoe Creek State Park – Discovery Trail- Gallatin, TN
- Distance: 1.5 miles (loop)
- Time: 45 minutes
- What to See: Scenic lake views, friendly ducks, and maybe even some fishing (if you’re feeling adventurous).
- Start/End: Parking near the visitor center.
- Fun Factor: Pack a snack for a “Duck Picnic”—who says you can’t have fun while hiking?
7. Cumberland Mountain State Park – Pine Ridge Trail- Crossville, TN
- Distance: 1.5 miles (loop)
- Time: 1 hour
- What to See: Gorgeous forest scenery, a charming bridge, and plenty of birdwatching opportunities.
- Start/End: Start at the lodge and follow the signs.
- Fun Factor: Let the kids play “I Spy” with the birds—bonus points if they can mimic a call!
8. Great Smoky Mountains National Park – Kephart Prong Trail- Gatlinburg, TN
- Distance: 1.5 miles (loop)
- Time: About 1 hour
- What to See: Beautiful mountain scenery, a delightful creek, and maybe even some friendly locals (a bear, if you’re very lucky—but let’s not encourage that!).
- Start/End: Located off the Newfound Gap Road.
- Fun Factor: Have a “nature photography contest” to capture the best views (and the best faces).
9. Harrison Bay State Park – Loop Trail- Harrison, TN
- Distance: 1.5 miles (loop)
- Time: 40 minutes
- What to See: A stunning bay, towering trees, and lots of opportunities to spot fish jumping (or avoid falling in).
- Start/End: Park at the main lot, and follow the signs around the loop.
- Fun Factor: Pretend you’re on a grand boat expedition—without the boat!
10. Fall Creek Falls State Park – Short Loop Trail- Spencer, TN
- Distance: 1.5 miles (loop)
- Time: 1 hour
- What to See: Stunning views of the waterfall and lush greenery. The mist from the falls is the best free face mist ever!
- Start/End: Park at the main lot and follow the signs.
- Fun Factor: Bring a tiny water bottle to “refill” at the waterfall—kids love a good pretend play!
Happy hiking, Tennessee families! Let the adventure begin!
