The best gravel rides around Nashville

While many of the dedicated gravel routes in the surrounding counties can be challenging, Nashville's extensive greenway system offers some excellent starting points. The greenways feature over 110 miles of paved multi-use paths and some unpaved sections that are suitable for gravel bikes, providing a gentler introduction to the terrain. Areas like Shelby Bottoms Greenway or Stones River Greenway are good options for a more relaxed ride.

For experienced riders seeking a challenge, the routes in Hickman County, about 60-90 minutes southwest of Nashville, are highly recommended. These areas are known for their rural roads and significant elevation changes. Routes like Climb loop from Mohican Wilderness Campground, with its substantial elevation gain over 30.5 miles, or the longer Holmes County Trail – Baddow Pass History Signage loop from Glenmont, which covers over 60 miles through rural landscapes, offer demanding rides.

Yes, many of the gravel routes in the region are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For example, the Baddow Pass History Signage loop from Glenmont is a 64.3-mile circular trail that takes you through rolling hills and scenic countryside. These loop routes are common in areas like Hickman County and around Gladeville.

For families, the paved and some unpaved sections of Nashville's greenway system are ideal. These multi-use paths offer a safe and accessible environment away from vehicle traffic. While not strictly gravel, they provide a pleasant outdoor biking experience. For a more natural setting, some of the less technical mountain biking trails in parks like Bells Bend or Cane Ridge might be suitable for families with capable gravel bikes and riders, though caution is advised.

The Nashville area is rich in natural beauty. While gravel biking, you can expect to encounter rolling hills, extensive forested areas of the Highland Rim, and serene lakes. Warner Parks, for instance, offers 2,500 acres of varied terrain and notable geology with 'seashells' embedded in rocks. Radnor Lake State Park provides lush forests and a tranquil lake, while the Cumberland River offers scenic views. The rural roads often pass through picturesque countryside.

Parking availability varies by location. For routes within the Nashville greenway system, designated parking lots are typically available at various access points. For routes in surrounding counties like Hickman or near Cedars of Lebanon State Forest, you'll often find parking at trailheads, public parks, or designated staging areas. It's always advisable to check specific route details or local park websites for precise parking information before heading out.

Within Nashville, the public transport system (WeGo Public Transit) can get you to various points along the greenway system, which offers some gravel-suitable sections. However, for the more extensive and dedicated gravel routes in the surrounding counties like Hickman or Gladeville, public transport options are very limited or non-existent. These areas are best accessed by car.

The spring and fall seasons generally offer the most pleasant conditions for gravel biking in Nashville. Temperatures are mild, and the natural scenery is vibrant with spring blooms or autumn foliage. Summers can be hot and humid, while winters are typically mild but can have occasional cold snaps or wet conditions. Always check the local weather forecast before your ride.

Nashville's extensive 180-mile greenway system includes both paved multi-use paths and some unpaved sections. While many are paved, the 26 miles of unpaved mountain biking trails within the greenway system, particularly at parks like Bells Bend and Cane Ridge, can be suitable for gravel bikes, depending on your bike's capabilities and your skill level. They offer a good option for exploring closer to the city.

Some of Nashville's mountain biking trails, particularly beginner to intermediate ones found in parks like Bells Bend and Cane Ridge, might be navigable on a gravel bike, depending on the trail conditions and your bike's tire clearance and suspension. However, trails in parks like Percy Warner and Hamilton Creek are known for limestone rock and exposed roots, which can be quite challenging and potentially damaging for a gravel bike. Always assess the trail conditions and your bike's suitability before attempting mountain bike trails.

Yes, the region surrounding Nashville, particularly Hickman County and the areas around Gladeville and Cedars of Lebanon State Forest, are rich with rural, unpaved roads that offer excellent gravel biking opportunities. These areas are less formally designated but provide a vast network of quiet roads through scenic countryside, often discovered through local cycling groups like 'Gravel Grinders of Tennessee' or events like 'Gravel Revival'.

The komoot community highly rates the gravel biking experience around Nashville. Riders frequently praise the diverse landscape, which includes rolling hills and extensive forested areas, offering varied terrain. The opportunity to explore rural roads and connect with nature, often away from heavy traffic, is a significant draw. The challenging climbs and scenic routes through natural settings are also often highlighted as key enjoyable aspects.