Things to Do around Memphis

Memphis offers diverse landscapes for outdoor activities such as hiking, road cycling, touring cycling, and jogging. The region features large urban parks, riverfront paths, and state forests. There are 4 routes available across these sports, with an average rating of 4.32 stars from more than 600 visitors.

Memphis provides a variety of hiking experiences, from urban parks to state forests. Notable locations include Shelby Farms Park with over 40 miles (64 km) of trails, Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park offering more than 20 miles (32 km) of diverse trails, and Overton Park's Old Forest Trail. For more details, refer to the Hiking around Memphis guide.

Yes, Memphis offers several options for easy hikes suitable for beginners or those seeking a relaxed experience. Shelby Farms Park features many paved and unpaved trails, and Overton Park's Old Forest Trail provides a gentle escape within the city. The Easy hikes around Memphis guide provides specific recommendations.

Road cyclists can explore Memphis's growing network of bike trails and lanes. The Shelby Farms Greenline is a 10.65-mile (17.1 km) paved path connecting Midtown to Shelby Farms Park. The Big River Crossing offers a unique ride across the Mississippi River. More routes are detailed in the Road Cycling Routes around Memphis guide.

Memphis is suitable for touring cycling with its greenways and protected paths. The Wolf River Greenway, with several open sections, provides scenic routes along the river. The Shelby Farms Greenline is another popular option for longer rides. Consult the Cycling around Memphis guide for more information.

Joggers and runners have numerous options in Memphis. Shelby Farms Park offers over 40 miles (64 km) of trails, including paved and unpaved surfaces. The Shelby Farms Greenline provides a dedicated 10.65-mile (17.1 km) paved path. Overton Park's Old Forest Trail is another popular choice for a natural running experience. The Running Trails around Memphis guide lists additional routes.

Shelby Farms Park is one of the largest urban parks in the U.S., spanning 4,500 acres (1,821 hectares) with extensive trails and bodies of water. Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park, covering 12,539 acres (5,074 hectares), offers a more immersive forest experience. Overton Park provides a historic urban green space with ancient trees.

Many parks and trails in Memphis are dog-friendly, typically requiring dogs to be on a leash. Shelby Farms Park and Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park generally welcome leashed dogs on their trails. It is advisable to check specific park regulations before visiting.

Memphis trails offer unique natural features such as the Mississippi Riverfront, providing views of the river and skyline. Shelby Farms Park is home to a herd of American bison. Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park is known for its abundant wildlife within a hardwood forest. Overton Park features an Old Forest with ancient trees.

The Shelby Farms Greenline is a 10.65-mile (17.1 km) paved, protected path. It connects Midtown Memphis to Shelby Farms Park, offering a popular route for cycling, jogging, and walking. The Greenline passes through neighborhoods and green spaces, providing a safe and scenic corridor.

The Big River Crossing is the longest public pedestrian and bicycle bridge across the Mississippi River, stretching nearly 1 mile (1.6 km). It provides views of the Memphis skyline and connects Memphis to West Memphis, Arkansas, expanding trail access. This feature is popular for both walking and cycling.

Komoot offers several guides for outdoor activities in Memphis. These include guides for Hiking around Memphis, Easy hikes around Memphis, Road Cycling Routes around Memphis, Cycling around Memphis, and Running Trails around Memphis.

The official website for the City of Memphis is memphistn.gov. This site provides general information and resources related to city services and local government.

For general inquiries or to speak with a live agent for city services, Memphis 311 can be reached at (901) 636-6500. Phone operators are available Monday through Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.