Hidden Lake and Ridge Loop

The trail is located within Harpeth River State Park. Parking is available at the trailhead, which is typically well-marked. Always check the park's official website for the most current parking information and directions.

As of now, there are no entrance fees or permits required to access Harpeth River State Park or hike the Hidden Lake and Ridge Loop trail. However, it's always a good idea to check the official Tennessee State Parks website for any updates before your visit.

Yes, the trail is dog-friendly! Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a leash at all times to protect wildlife and ensure the safety of other hikers. Please remember to pack out any waste.

While enjoyable year-round, the best time to hike this trail, especially if you're interested in its historical remnants, is during winter and early spring. With the leaves off the trees, you'll have clearer views of the old resort structures and the landscape. Fall offers beautiful foliage, and spring brings new growth.

The trail offers varied terrain. It starts flat and wide, traversing an open field before entering a forest and following a riverbed. The most challenging part is a steep incline encountered after the Ridge Loop branches off. While this section can be strenuous, the overall trail is manageable, with some narrow sections and steep drop-offs along the ridge.

This trail is rich in both natural beauty and history. You'll encounter the serene Hidden Lake, an old rock quarry, and catch glimpses of the Harpeth River. From the ridge, there are beautiful overlooks providing scenic views of Hidden Lake below. You can also discover remnants of its past as a 1930s resort, including a concrete dance floor, an abandoned building, and a partially buried tanker car.

Yes, the trail is generally considered manageable for families with children. However, close supervision is advised, especially on the ridge sections due to narrow paths and steep drop-offs. The varied scenery and historical elements can make it an engaging experience for younger hikers.

The loop is approximately 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) long. Most hikers can complete it in about 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 45 minutes, depending on pace and how much time is spent exploring the historical features and viewpoints.

Yes, the route incorporates sections of several other trails. You'll hike along parts of the Ridge Loop Trail and the Hidden Lake Trail. It also briefly intersects with the Memphis to Nashville, Railroad Spur Trail, and connects to the Bluebird Trail, which serves as a Storybook Trail.

For this hike, we recommend bringing plenty of water, especially during warmer months. Sturdy hiking shoes are advisable due to the varied terrain and the steep incline on the ridge. Sunscreen, insect repellent, and a camera to capture the scenic views and historical remnants are also good ideas.

As the trail is located within Harpeth River State Park, basic facilities like restrooms might be available at the park's main areas. For cafes, restaurants, or other amenities, you would need to venture into nearby towns or communities outside the immediate park area.