The best walks and hikes in Dunbar Cave State Park
5.0
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57
hikers
11
hikes
Hiking in Dunbar Cave State Park offers access to a landscape characterized by limestone formations, dense woodlands, and natural water features. The park's terrain includes gentle slopes and established paths, providing a natural setting for outdoor activities. This area is known for its cave system, which influences the surrounding topography and offers a unique environment for exploration.
Best hiking trails in Dunbar Cave State Park
- The most popular hiking route is Dunbar Cave loop from Dunbar Cave State Park,…
Last updated: July 2, 2026
5
hikers
1.82km
00:29
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
12
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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11
hikers
5.22km
01:24
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.15km
00:49
20m
20m
Enjoy an easy 2.0-mile hike along the paved Cumberland Riverwalk in Clarksville, offering scenic river views and historical markers.
2.53km
00:41
30m
30m
Hike the easy 1.6-mile Upland Trail in Clarksville's McGregor Park, gaining 95 feet over 40 minutes, perfect for a quick outdoor escape.
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Popular around Dunbar Cave State Park
Tips from the Community
An urban walking path connecting the Riverwalk to an overlook bridge. It passes by historical buildings and utilizes a former railroad bridge. It provides a connection to the city's downtown area and offers views of the surrounding environment.
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This path runs along the Red River, providing great views of the water. Benches and restrooms are located at various points along the greenway. The path is shared with cyclists and pedestrians, so be mindful of your surroundings.
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Rotary Park is a 111-acre nature park that is popular for birdwatching, hiking, and trail running. The trails are marked, but at times are difficult to see, so it would be a good idea to bring something to help you navigate.
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Dunbar Cave is one of the largest caves in Montgomery County at eight miles long. It has been used by local groups for thousands of years and is the site of prehistoric Mississippian Native American cave art dating to the 14th century.
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Built on an abandoned railway, Clarksville Greenway is a 9-mile rail trail in North Clarksville. It is fully paved and is mostly flat, so it is a great place for a long run.
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The trails at North Ford Street Mountain Bike Trail Park are bike-specific trails and were built with intermediate riders in mind. Some trails are narrow, rocky, rooty, and have man-made trail obstacles. There are lots of well-marked trails that will challenge almost any rider.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in Dunbar Cave State Park?
Dunbar Cave State Park offers a selection of over 10 hiking routes. These trails vary in length and difficulty, providing options for different preferences and fitness levels.
Are there easy hiking options suitable for beginners or families with children?
Yes, Dunbar Cave State Park has several easy hiking options. Approximately 7 of the routes are classified as easy. A good choice for families or beginners is the Dunbar Cave loop from Dunbar Cave State Park, which is a gentle 1.1-mile (1.8 km) trail circling the main cave area.
Are dogs allowed on the trails in Dunbar Cave State Park?
Yes, dogs are generally welcome on the hiking trails at Dunbar Cave State Park, provided they are kept on a leash. Please ensure you clean up after your pet to help maintain the park's natural environment for all visitors.
What kind of terrain can I expect when hiking in Dunbar Cave State Park?
The terrain in Dunbar Cave State Park is characterized by dense woodlands, limestone formations, and natural water features. Trails often feature gentle slopes and established paths, with some sections along the Clarksville Greenway offering varied surfaces. You'll find wooded paths and areas adjacent to water bodies.
Are there any loop hikes available in the park?
Yes, loop hikes are a popular feature in Dunbar Cave State Park. The Dunbar Cave loop from Dunbar Cave State Park is a well-known easy option. Another popular loop is the Rotary Park loop from Clarksville High School, which takes you through wooded areas.
What is the longest trail available for hiking in Dunbar Cave State Park?
One of the longer routes available is the North Ford Street Mountain Bike Trail Park – Clarksville Greenway loop from APSU Farm & Environmental Education Center. This moderate path spans 5.2 miles (8.3 km) and features varied terrain.
Is there parking available at the trailheads?
Yes, Dunbar Cave State Park provides designated parking areas for visitors. The main parking lot is typically located near the visitor center and cave entrance, offering convenient access to several trailheads. Specific trailheads may also have smaller parking spots.
What is the best season for hiking in Dunbar Cave State Park?
Hiking in Dunbar Cave State Park is enjoyable year-round, but spring and fall are particularly pleasant. Spring brings lush greenery and blooming wildflowers, while fall offers vibrant foliage. Summer can be warm and humid, so early morning or late afternoon hikes are recommended, and winter provides a quieter, stark beauty.
What kind of wildlife might I encounter on the trails?
Dunbar Cave State Park is home to various wildlife. Hikers might spot white-tailed deer, squirrels, rabbits, and a variety of bird species. The cave itself is a significant wintering habitat for several bat species, though they are typically not seen on the hiking trails during the day.
Are there any wheelchair-accessible trails in Dunbar Cave State Park?
While many trails in Dunbar Cave State Park feature natural surfaces and some uneven terrain, the park strives to offer accessible options. It's best to check with the park office directly for the most current information on specific trails or paved sections that are wheelchair-friendly.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Dunbar Cave State Park?
The komoot community rates the routes in Dunbar Cave State Park highly, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Hikers often praise the park's tranquil wooded paths, the unique limestone features, and the opportunity to explore trails adjacent to water, providing a refreshing natural escape.
Are there good spots for photography along the hiking trails?
Absolutely. The park's diverse landscape offers numerous photographic opportunities. The entrance to Dunbar Cave, the surrounding limestone bluffs, and the dense woodlands provide scenic backdrops. Water features along trails like the Cumberland Riverwalk also offer picturesque views, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Most popular routes in Dunbar Cave State Park
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