The best traffic-free bike rides in Stones River Bend Regional Park

There are over 25 dedicated no traffic road cycling routes in Stones River Bend Regional Park. These routes offer a mix of easy and moderate rides, ensuring options for various skill levels.

The terrain within Stones River Bend Regional Park and its connected greenways is generally flat to gently rolling. You'll encounter scenic stretches along the Stones River, with some short but engaging hills that add a bit of a challenge to your ride. The routes often feature paved surfaces, ideal for road bikes.

While many routes are easy, there are several moderate options that include more significant elevation changes. For example, the Sevier Lake – Shelby Bottoms Greenway loop from Donelson offers over 300 meters of elevation gain across its 41 km, providing a good workout for seasoned cyclists.

For longer rides, consider routes that connect multiple greenways. The Johnny Cash Museum 🎸 – Cumberland River Greenway loop from Donelson is nearly 50 km long, offering an extensive ride through varied landscapes. Another great option is the Sevier Lake – Shelby Bottoms Greenway loop from Donelson, which covers over 41 km.

Yes, the Stones River Greenway, which is central to the park's cycling network, is known for being family-friendly. Its generally flat to gently rolling profile makes it suitable for cyclists of all ages. Routes like the Stones River Greenway loop from Donelson are excellent choices for a pleasant family outing without vehicle traffic.

Cyclists can enjoy continuous scenic views of the Stones River, high bluffs, and expansive floodplains. The park's diverse landscape includes wooded hills and unique cedar glades, which are home to rare plant species. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including various bird species and butterflies, especially in areas undergoing native grassland restoration.

Spring and fall generally offer the most pleasant conditions for cycling in Stones River Bend Regional Park, with mild temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summers can be warm and humid, so early mornings or late afternoons are recommended. Winters are typically mild, allowing for year-round cycling, though some days may be colder.

Yes, many of the routes in Stones River Bend Regional Park are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Shelby Bottoms Greenway – Stones River Greenway loop from Donelson and the Shelby Bottoms Greenway – Airpark loop from Donelson, providing convenient circular journeys.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars from 17 ratings. Reviewers often praise the well-maintained paved greenways, the beautiful riverfront scenery, and the peaceful, car-free environment that makes for a relaxing and safe ride.

Yes, there are multiple access points and trailheads for the Stones River Greenway and its connected paths, including locations like Percy Priest Dam. These trailheads typically offer parking facilities, making it convenient to start your no traffic road cycling adventure.

Absolutely. The Stones River Greenway seamlessly connects to other significant trails, such as the Shelby Bottoms Greenway, via the Cumberland River Pedestrian Bridge. This connectivity greatly expands your cycling options and allows for longer, more varied rides.