11 Destinations In Nashville Where You Can Surround Yourself In Nature

Nashville is a great city if you're looking for the culture of a big town infiltrated with the stunning beauty of southern greenways and forested parks. We've pulled together eleven places that are perfect if you're looking for a quick jaunt into the great outdoors - without leaving the comfort of city lines. Happy adventuring!

11. Cheekwood Botanical Garden and Museum of Art

Enjoy 55-acres of beauty at the renowned Cheekwood, a place that has come to serve as a pinnacle of Nashville's garden and museum community. They host multiple art displays throughout the year, including their well-known Christmas light display, so make sure to check their calendar for your visit. (1200 Forrest Park Drive)

10. Radnor Lake

Radnor Lake consists of 1,332 acres and lies just outside of Nashville. It has a lake loop that runs just a couple of miles and is easy for most hikers, so you won't have to worry about a strenuous pace. Perfect for a Thoreau moment in the middle of the city. (Oak Hill)

9. Marrowbone Lake

Located in Joelton, a rough fifteen miles outside of Nashville, Marrowbone Lake is great for fishing and hiking, if you bring the right supplies! The 60 acre area boasts a boat launching ramp and supplies for your bait and tackle needs. (6200 Marrowbone Lake Road)

8. Harpeth River State Park

This Kingston Springs gem is where you'll find Hidden Lake Loop, a neat hiking trail that skirts the edge of an old dancing area, left long ago to the wiles of Tennessee's forestry. You can boat, hike, fish and bird from the comforts of the park lines. (1294 U.S. 70)

7. Peeler Park

Tucked back off of Neely's Bend in Madison, Peeler Park is a stunning, protected area that has miles of hiking and biking trails, as well as a boat ramp that leads to the Cumberland River. A beautiful exhibition of Tennessee's wild beauty, and it's not too far from the rush of Gallatin. (2271 Neelys Bend Road)

6. Shelby Bottoms

Probably the most well known of each of these greenways, Shelby Park is run ragged with East Nashvillian's in love with its miles of trails, proximity to the Cumberland River and neat nature center. Who wouldn't fall in love? (1900 Davidson Street)

5. Natchez Trace State Park

One of the largest and most beautiful state parks in Middle Tennessee, the Natchez Trace boasts THREE lakes, a neat horse camp as well as the opportunity to boat and hike. It's also lovely if you're just looking to drive and enjoy a picnic. (24845 Natchez Trace Road)

4. Stones River Greenway

Stones River Greenway runs for miles, from the iconic Two Rivers Park through to Percy Priest. It's best for joggers and hikers, but we'd HIGHLY recommend snagging a bike or two and cycling the whole of it. It's a hike but well worth it and wildly enjoyable.

3. Beaman Park

This Ashland City dreamboat is one of the most rugged and wild preserves in the great Nashville area. Hiking is moderate, but your envelopment in the stunning outdoors is complete. We'd recommend hiking with a group, and perhaps when the weather is warm. The hills can get a bit slippery! (5911 Old Hickory Blvd)

2. Percy Priest Lake

J. Percy Priest Lake can be visited from multiple points in Nashville, and it has turned out to be great for business folks who need to clear their head or young kids who feel the need to cliff jump (not recommended). Head out for a hike or a moment in your car, perusing the landscape and pondering new beginnings.

1. Warner Parks

The Warner Parks refer to Edwin and Percy Warner Parks, where half a million (!) people visit on an annual basis. You can hike, follow their scenic roadways, indulge in a round of golf or even visit their athletic fields. The parks are a dream and a half, and you simply have to visit to get it. So go. (7311 Highway 100)

Did your favorite getaway make the list? If you're still looking for fun, check out The Epic Adventure Bucket List Every Tennessean Must Complete.