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Take a Hike at These Williamson County Parks and Trails!

Take a Hike at These Williamson County Parks and Trails!

Have you been wanting an excuse to get outside and enjoy the beautiful weather and scenery that comes with autumn? Williamson County has so many options when it comes to outdoor activities! With a number of parks and trails to choose from, we have compiled a list of our favorites. Whether you are looking for a casual stroll or a challenging hike, keep reading to find some great local parks and trails!

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Aspen Grove Park 

Located in the Cool Springs area of Franklin, Aspen Grove Park is 14-acres with a .8 mile walking trail along Spencer Creek. This is an easy and paved trail that loops around the park and brings you a few steps closer to nature! The park includes a large pavilion with a grill and restroom. If you are looking for a peaceful walking path, this is the one for you!

 

Garrison Creek Park

Garrison Creek Park consists of a picnic area and restroom, acting as a rest stop in Leipers Fork on the Old Natchez Trace. The Garrison Creek portion of the Trace is the only part of the trail that makes a loop, making it a good option for casual walks. Dogs and even horses are welcomed on this trail! There is parking for horse trailers by the picnic area and hitching posts and water behind the restroom, where the trail begins. Enjoy the scenery on this wooded trail!

 

Marcella Vivrette Smith Park 

Marcella Vivrette Smith Park is the largest park in Brentwood and includes the historic Ravenswood Mansion on its 400-acre property. The park features 4 color-coded trails, each ranging in levels of difficulty and adding up to 7.1 miles worth of hiking. Spend your day at this forested park and encounter local wildlife!

Green trail: intermediate, 1.36 miles

Blue trail: moderate, 2.25 miles

Black trail: strenuous, 2 miles

Red trail: challenging, 1.5 miles

 

Pinkerton Park 

Pinkerton Park is in a prime location! With the Harpeth River to the west and Fort Granger to the north, this 34-acre Franklin park is the most used passive park in the Franklin park system!  It even features 3 pavilions, 2 playgrounds, grills, and a 1 mile walking trail with informational signs about Fort Granger. This trail is often used for birdwatching, biking, and running. Perfect for a day with family or friends, enjoy the outdoors with this leisurely walking trail. 

 

Westhaven Trails 

In the subdivision of Westhaven in Franklin, there are at least 5 different hiking trails! You can locate these hidden gems through either of the two trailheads, Wild Elm and Grassmere. They range in levels of intensity and include frequent changes in elevation. While they are not recommended for beginners, if you are looking for a new hiking location, these beautiful and well-maintained trails may give you the change of scenery you desire!

West slope trail: strenuous, 1.5 miles

East slope trail: strenuous, 1.7 miles

Gray trail: strenuous, 2.5 miles

The Ridge trail: moderate, 1.7 miles

Buchanan trail: difficult, 1.8 miles

 

Winstead Hill Park 

Winstead Hill Park is a 61-acre historic battle site of the Battle of Franklin, which took place in 1864 during the American Civil War. While you enjoy the ¾ mile walking trail, learn about the city’s history through educational trail markers. This well-maintained battlefield has the perfect mixture of open fields, wooded trails, and learning opportunities. Work out your body and mind at this historical landmark! 

 

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