There is a strong dichotomy between the kind of people that love to be in the free spaces of the country and the people that love the energy of the big city. Then, there are those people in the middle of the spectrum that simply want both. Luckily, in Nashville, you can have the benefits of the big city with the serenity of the country without ever leaving the city limits. Here are just a few of the best hikes in Nashville where you can refresh in your own backyard.

1. Radnor Lake - Granier Ridge Trail

Radnor Lake is one of the most stunning places in Nashville, largely because it's hard to believe a place this serene and beautiful could be in the heart of such a big city. The Grainger Ridge Trail is just under 3 miles and winds through the forests surrounding the lake. While it may be one of Nashville's most popular, you'll still be amazed at the beauty the park has to offer.

2. Beaman Park - Ridgetop Trail

The Ridgetop Trail in Beaman Park is an out-and-back trail that goes deep in to the heart of the park before turning around and taking you back to their beautiful Nature Center. Be sure to take the spur to the creekside trail. You'll find that both are among the most scenic trails in Nashville.

3. Percy Warner - Mossy Ridge

The Mossy Ridge Trail runs four and a half miles through the luscious and hilly Percy Warner Park. It's a great place for anyone looking for a good run. The Warner Parks are some of the biggest in Nashville, and they're just a short drive out of downtown in the Belle Meade neighborhood.

4. Peeler Park

Peeler Park is probably Nashville's most underrated park. Located at the tip of Neely's Bend in Madison, it offers over four miles of trails that are never crowded. Plus, the drive to the park will have you thinking you're in the middle of the countryside.

5. Bells Bend

Bells Bend is also known as one of the most underrated parks in Nashville. This park is hardly ever crowded, is known as being one of the best parks in the city for bringing your canine friends, and offers some of the best easy hikes in Nashville.

6. Harpeth River State Park - Hidden Lake Loop

The Narrows of the Harpeth inside of Harpeth River State Park is one of the most popular canoeing spots around Nashville, but the park's Hidden Lake Loop is often overlooked. The trail cuts through a field for over a mile before suddenly coming upon the Hidden Lake. Be sure to take the loop around the lake so that you can see it from atop the bluff as well.

7. Long Hunter State Park - Volunteer Trail

Long Hunter State Park on Nashville's Percy Priest Lake is a nearly 10-mile one-way trail that goes out and back along the banks of the lake. One of the most scenic hikes in Nashville, it's frequented by runners because of its peaceful and beautiful views of the lake. Plus, it's pretty flat, which is always nice.

8. Natchez Trace

The Natchez Trace features multiple parks along its stretch from Nashville to Natchez, Mississippi, many of which feature multiple trails. Among them are some of the most kid-friendly hikes around Nashville. But if you don't want to get out of your car, that's cool too. The drive itself is absolutely stunning!

9. Montgomery Bell State Park

Montgomery Bell State Park, which sits on the west side of Nashville, is full of history. The park is home to multiple lakes, over 20 miles of trails, and even an entire church denomination. That's right, the Cumberland Presbyterian Church was started in Montgomery Bell, and you can still visit their first-ever church here.

10. Edwin Warner Park

Edwin Warner Park sits right across the street from Percy Warner Park on the opposite side of downtown, making it a little more secluded and a little more ideal for people looking to experience nature by themselves. The park offers quite a few trails, many which connect to Percy Warner if you want to extend your hike. If you're searching for "hiking trails near me" in Nashville, Edwin Warner Park should definitely top your list!

Looking for somewhere to grab a bite to eat and refuel from your hike? Check out The Treehouse Restaurant in the Five Points Neighborhood.