Shelby Farms Greenline to Herb Parsons Lake

The full route from the Shelby Farms Greenline to Herb Parsons Lake is approximately 64.3 km (40 miles) and typically takes around 4 hours to complete on a touring bicycle, not including stops. This duration accounts for the varied terrain and the road cycling sections connecting the two main highlights.

The route begins on the Shelby Farms Greenline, which is a smooth, paved asphalt path. After the Greenline, the connection to Herb Parsons Lake is primarily on public roads. The trails around Herb Parsons Lake itself are mostly unpaved, technical singletracks with hard-packed silt and clay, best suited for mountain bikes, featuring roots, small drops, and tight turns.

The Shelby Farms Greenline section is very easy and suitable for beginners. However, the connection to Herb Parsons Lake involves riding on public roads, which requires more experience with road cycling. The trails directly around Herb Parsons Lake are more technical and better suited for mountain bikers, not traditional touring bicycles. Beginners might consider cycling only the Greenline or riding to the lake and enjoying the scenery without tackling the technical lake trails.

There are several parking areas along the Shelby Farms Greenline. Popular access points with parking include the eastern trailhead at Mullins Station Road and the western end near Midtown Memphis. Within Shelby Farms Park, there are also numerous parking lots that provide access to the Greenline.

On the Shelby Farms Greenline, you might spot deer, wild turkeys, and armadillos, especially in the shaded wetland areas. Within Shelby Farms Park, there's even a herd of bison. The Herb Parsons Lake area offers tranquil waters, hardwood forests, and open fields, making it a picturesque spot for birdwatching and nature appreciation.

Spring and fall are generally the best times to cycle this route due to milder temperatures and pleasant scenery. Summers in Memphis can be very hot and humid, while winters can be chilly. Be aware that the unpaved trails around Herb Parsons Lake are advised not to be ridden when wet, as the silt and clay surface can become very muddy.

Yes, both the Shelby Farms Greenline and the Herb Parsons Lake area are generally dog-friendly. Dogs must be kept on a leash at all times, and owners are responsible for cleaning up after their pets. Always check for specific signage regarding pet regulations at different sections of the park or lake.

There are no general entrance fees or permits required to access the Shelby Farms Greenline or Herb Parsons Lake for cycling. However, specific events or activities within Shelby Farms Park might have associated costs. Always check the official websites for any updated information on fees or special permits.

Yes, the route primarily follows the Shelby Farms Greenline for a significant portion. It also briefly intersects with sections of the Memphis Loop, Southern Rambler, Chickasaw Trail, El Bandito, Yellow-Blue-Greenline Connector, Wolf River Trail Blue, Banjo Trail, Wolf River Greenway, and Wolf River Trail Yellow within the Shelby Farms Park area.

A touring cyclist should be aware that while the Shelby Farms Greenline is perfect for touring bikes, the connection to Herb Parsons Lake involves public roads. The trails directly around Herb Parsons Lake are technical mountain bike trails, not suitable for typical touring bicycles. If your goal is to ride the lake trails, consider bringing a mountain bike or planning to ride to the lake and enjoy the scenic views from the perimeter rather than the singletrack.

The Shelby Farms Greenline is well-maintained and includes repair stations for cyclists, as well as restrooms at various points within Shelby Farms Park. Facilities become less frequent once you transition to public roads and near Herb Parsons Lake, so plan accordingly for water and other needs.