The best walks and hikes in Shelby County

The Wolf River Blue and Yellow Trail Loop offers a delightful immersion into the hardwood bottomlands of the Lucius E. Burch Jr. State Natural Area. You'll follow the winding banks of the Wolf River, enjoying serene views and passing over charming wooden footbridges that span tributary streams. The landscape shifts between swamp-like areas and lowlands, providing a rich habitat for wildlife and a peaceful, shaded experience under a canopy of oaks, birches, and maples.

This easy 3.2-mile (5.1 km) hike, with a gentle 22 feet (7 metres) of elevation gain, is perfect for a quick escape, taking about 1 hour and 16 minutes. It's suitable for all skill levels, though you should be prepared for muddy sections, especially after rain. The trail is multi-use, so expect to share the path with mountain bikers. For the best experience, consider visiting in autumn when the foliage is at its most spectacular.

Part of the extensive Wolf River Greenway, this loop provides a crucial connection to a protected green space that will eventually stretch 26 miles. It's an excellent spot for birding and observing local wildlife, offering a quiet natural retreat near Memphis. The trail's easy terrain and scenic river views make it a popular choice for a relaxing outdoor adventure.

The Wolf River Blue and Yellow Trail Loop offers a delightful journey through Memphis's natural side, winding through serene hardwood bottomlands and along the Wolf River. You'll encounter a mix of oaks, birches, and maples, providing a lush canopy and vibrant colors, especially in autumn. The path frequently hugs the riverbanks, offering tranquil views and a distinct feeling of being far from the city, despite its urban setting. Keep an eye out for the accessible sandbar along the river, a unique natural feature.

This moderate 5.7-mile (9.1 km) hike, with only 42 feet (13 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 2 hours and 18 minutes. While generally easy, be prepared for potentially muddy sections after rain, though some sandy parts drain quickly. The trail is multi-use, shared with mountain bikers, so remain aware of your surroundings. The boardwalk connecting to the Shelby Farm Greenline can be slippery when wet, so tread carefully.

Part of the larger Wolf River Greenway and located within the Lucias E. Burch Jr. State Natural Area, this trail is a haven for birding and wildlife observation. It provides an excellent opportunity to connect with nature and enjoy a peaceful outing. The trail's accessibility and relatively flat profile make it a family-friendly option for those looking for a rewarding outdoor experience near Memphis.

The Wolf River Greenway offers a delightful and easy escape into nature, perfect for a relaxing day outdoors. This 2.7-mile (4.3 km) hiking route features a wide, paved pathway with only 33 feet (10 metres) of elevation gain, taking about 1 hour and 5 minutes to complete. You'll wind through shaded timberlands, catch glimpses of the Wolf River and serene ponds, and might even spot local wildlife like bluebirds and rabbits, especially around the picturesque bridges of the Epping Way section.

Planning your visit to the Wolf River Greenway is straightforward, as it's designed for accessibility and multi-use. The trail is generally flat and well-maintained, making it an excellent choice for beginners, families, and dog walkers. While specific parking information varies by trailhead, its urban location ensures convenient access points throughout Memphis, making it easy to jump on for a quick walk or a longer outing.

What makes the Wolf River Greenway truly stand out is its role as a vital urban connection to nature, providing Memphians with access to the previously inaccessible Wolf River. This extensive network, which will eventually span 26 miles, is notable for its scenic bridges and boardwalks, including the impressive suspension bridge at Wolf Crossing. It also connects to other major trail systems, offering even more opportunities for exploration and making it one of the most popular trails routes in the region.

This easy 1.0-mile (1.7 km) loop offers a quick escape into nature, taking about 25 minutes to complete. You will gain a gentle 36 feet (11 metres) of elevation as you hike through shaded woods and along the edge of a five-acre fishing lake. Keep an eye out for aquatic birds and dragonflies near the water, adding to the peaceful atmosphere. While generally smooth, some parts of the path might have uneven ground or roots, and can get muddy after rain.

Accessing the park is straightforward, with ample parking available at the trailhead. You will find picnic tables and benches, especially around the lake, which are perfect for a short break before or after your hike. While some sections of the trail are suitable for strollers, be aware that the designated hiking paths may present more challenging terrain.

The route winds through the 65-acre International Harvester Managerial Park, a green oasis where you can enjoy the natural beauty of the area. Beyond the main loop, the park features color-coded trails like the Blue, Yellow, and Red, offering options to extend your exploration. You might also spot various songbirds and small mammals as you make your way around the park.

The Discovery Trail in Memphis offers a pleasant, easy escape into nature, perfect for a quick refresh. This 1.6-mile (2.6 km) route is largely flat, with only 88 feet (27 metres) of elevation gain, making it an ideal choice for a leisurely walk or a gentle jog. You can expect a straightforward path, suitable for all ages and fitness levels, providing a simple yet satisfying outdoor experience in about 40 minutes.

Planning your visit to the Discovery Trail is straightforward; no special permits or fees are required. It's a great option for an impromptu outing, whether you're looking for an early morning stroll or a relaxing afternoon walk. The trail is accessible year-round, and comfortable walking shoes are all you'll need to enjoy this easy route.

This trail stands out as a highly accessible option within the Memphis area, offering a convenient way to connect with nature without venturing far. Its easy difficulty and short duration make it particularly family-friendly and a good choice for beginner hiking routes. It provides a quiet contrast to more strenuous activities, focusing on simple enjoyment and accessibility for the local community.

The Wolf River Nature Area Germantown Greenway invites you to an easy hike through tranquil riparian habitats, often meandering alongside the Wolf River or peaceful ponds. This paved route covers 3.6 miles (5.8 km) with a gentle elevation gain of just 35 feet (11 metres), making it ideal for a relaxed outdoor experience. You can expect to complete the trail in about 1 hour and 28 minutes, enjoying the serene wooded areas and keeping an eye out for local wildlife.

Accessing the trail is convenient, with various trailheads providing ample parking. Many of these access points also offer amenities such as restrooms, picnic facilities, and benches for your comfort. This multi-use paved pathway is designed to be welcoming for walkers, runners, and cyclists, and is also wheelchair accessible and stroller-friendly. You can easily connect to other major trail systems, including the Wolf River Greenway and the Shelby Farms Greenline, if you wish to extend your adventure.

A unique feature of this trail is its designation as a Level One Arboretum, where you can discover over 25 different tree species. As you explore, you will also encounter wildflower meadows and butterfly gardens, enhancing the natural beauty of the area. Interpretive stations like "Beaver Boondocks" and "Turtle Bayou" offer insights into the local ecosystem, making it a family-friendly destination for learning about nature.

The Shelby Farms Greenline offers a delightful escape into nature right within Memphis, Tennessee. This moderate 11.6-mile (18.7 km) hike, with only 224 feet (68 metres) of elevation gain, follows a flat, paved path built on a former railroad line. You'll traverse through shaded, tree-lined corridors, over scenic wooden trestles spanning wetlands, and even encounter a unique 'cathedral' section where leaves form a natural canopy. Keep an eye out for local wildlife like deer and wild turkeys along the way, and enjoy the expansive views of Shelby Farms Park, complete with a lake and bison herd, as you reach its terminus.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as the Greenline boasts numerous access points, making it easy to hop on and off. The trail's smooth, flat terrain and paved surface make it exceptionally family-friendly and wheelchair accessible, ensuring a comfortable experience for nearly everyone. While the route is enjoyable year-round, the ample shade from the trees makes it a pleasant option even on warmer days, though early mornings or late afternoons are always ideal for a leisurely 4-hour and 46-minute stroll or ride.

This trail is a prime example of a successful rail-to-trail conversion, transforming an unused corridor into a vibrant community asset. It serves as a vital link, connecting Midtown Memphis to Cordova and Shelby Farms Park, one of the largest urban parks in the United States. Beyond its recreational value, the Greenline provides a unique opportunity to experience nature and spot wildlife within an urban setting, highlighting Memphis's commitment to green spaces and outdoor activity.

The Wolf River Yellow Trail offers a tranquil journey through the heart of Memphis's natural landscape, feeling miles away from the city bustle. As you hike, you'll follow the meandering Wolf River, passing through diverse hardwood bottomlands and occasionally sandy sections. The path is mostly wooded, providing ample shade and opportunities for wildlife spotting, especially within the Lucius E. Burch Jr. State Natural Area, making it a great option for birding.

This moderate 5.7-mile (9.1 km) hike, with a gentle 50 feet (15 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 2 hours and 17 minutes. It's a fantastic choice for families or anyone looking for a relaxing outing. While the trail is generally easy, be aware that some sections can become muddy after rain, so checking current conditions before you go is a good idea. Dogs are welcome, provided they are kept on a leash.

Part of the broader Wolf River Trails system within Shelby Farms Park, this trail provides a peaceful escape and connects to other routes like the Blue Trail for longer adventures. Its sandy composition helps with quick drainage after rainfall, though some lowlands can still hold water. The trail's accessibility and natural beauty make it one of the best hiking trails Memphis TN has to offer for a serene outdoor experience.

Explore the Chickasaw Bluffs Trail, an easy 4.7-mile (7.6 km) hike that takes you through the varied landscapes of Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park. You will gain about 164 feet (50 metres) in elevation, with the entire route typically taking around 1 hour and 59 minutes to complete. As you walk, sunlight filters through dense forests, and you will cross several small bridges over streams, leading to a grand view of the Mississippi River.

Before you head out, know that the trail is generally accessible, but you should be prepared for some hills and varied terrain. Sturdy trail shoes or hiking boots are a good idea, especially since you might encounter rocky sections and tree roots. Parking is usually available right at the trailhead within Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park, making it easy to start your adventure.

This route offers more than just natural beauty; it also has a unique historical touch with an old graveyard found along the way. The trail's highlight for many is the expansive vista of the Mississippi River, providing a memorable endpoint to your journey through the park's diverse environment.