Cornelia Fort Airpark Runway Loop

Parking is available directly at the Cornelia Fort Airpark, which serves as the trailhead for this loop. It's located within the larger Shelby Bottoms area in East Nashville.

Yes, the trail is dog-friendly. Please ensure your dog is kept on a leash and that you clean up after them to maintain a pleasant experience for all visitors.

The trail is enjoyable year-round. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful foliage, while summer can be warm but provides long daylight hours. Winter hikes are also possible, offering a peaceful atmosphere.

No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to access the Cornelia Fort Airpark or to hike the Runway Loop. It is a public park managed by Nashville Parks and Recreation.

The primary feature of this loop is its repurposed runways, providing a mostly flat and paved surface. It's ideal for walking, jogging, and biking, with only slight inclines or declines in some sections.

Absolutely! The 1.25-mile runway loop is considered easy and flat, making it suitable for all skill levels, including families with children, and is generally accessible for strollers or scooters due to its paved surface.

You'll experience wide-open spaces with views of the former runways, surrounded by trees. The airpark connects to the Shelby Bottoms Greenway, offering glimpses of the Cumberland River. Keep an eye out for wildlife such as deer, turkeys, and occasionally even cows, as the park borders a farm.

Its unique appeal lies in its history as a former private airport, now a 141-acre open space. It's named after Cornelia Fort, a pioneering WWII pilot. The preserved tarmac and runway offer a distinct recreational environment, blending history with nature.

Yes, the Cornelia Fort Airpark Runway Loop is part of the broader Shelby Bottoms network. It directly connects to the Shelby Bottoms Greenway and other trails like the Cornelia Fort Trail, Shelby Bottoms - Cornelia Fort Connector - north, Native Grounds Trail, Fox Trail, and Racoon Den Trail, allowing for extended treks.

Restroom services at the airpark are limited. It's advisable to plan accordingly and bring your own water, especially on warmer days, as dedicated water facilities may not be readily available along the loop.

The 1.25-mile loop is relatively short and flat. Most hikers can comfortably complete it in about 40 minutes to an hour, depending on their pace and how often they stop to enjoy the surroundings.