Photo: Jordan Smith
Photo: Gerald Law
Photo: Andy Gasparini
Stones River Greenway
★4.9(7 reviews)FreeAdventure
🕑 1.5-3 hours depending on your pace and how far you explore👶 Best for all ages. Toddlers can enjoy stroller rides and spotting wildlife along the river, preschoolers love learning to ride bikes on the flat terrain, and older kids can tackle longer distances independently or try spotting birds and turtles along the water's edge.🧡 Saved by 80+ families
About
Stones River Greenway offers families a beautifully maintained paved trail system that winds along the peaceful Stones River, perfect for introducing kids to outdoor adventure without the challenge of rough terrain. Whether your family prefers biking, scootering, walking, or jogging, the smooth pathways make it accessible for strollers and young riders while offering enough distance for older kids to burn energy and explore nature.
Highlights
- ✓Smooth, paved trails perfect for training wheels and beginner bikers
- ✓Scenic river views with opportunities to spot wildlife including turtles, fish, and various bird species
- ✓Multiple access points allowing families to customize their distance and difficulty
- ✓Shaded sections along the tree-lined path providing relief on sunny days
- ✓Safe, traffic-free environment ideal for kids learning outdoor recreation skills
Pro Tips
- 1.Bring bug spray during warmer months, especially near the water where mosquitoes can be active in the mornings and evenings
- 2.Pack binoculars for kids to spot herons, turtles, and other wildlife along the river,early morning offers the best viewing opportunities
- 3.The trail connects to multiple access points, so choose your starting location based on desired distance and check parking availability at your chosen trailhead
- 4.Bring snacks and water as there are no vendors along the trail, and look for shaded benches perfect for rest stops
- 5.Consider bringing sidewalk chalk to mark distances or create games at wider sections of the path for younger children
Best Time to Visit
Visit early morning (7-9 AM) or late afternoon (4-6 PM) during spring and fall for the most comfortable temperatures and best wildlife viewing. Weekday mornings are less crowded than weekends, giving young bikers more room to practice.
What to Know
The greenway is free to access with multiple parking areas along the route. The paved surface is stroller and wheelchair accessible, though there are no restroom facilities or food vendors directly on the trail, so plan accordingly.
Seasonal Notes
Spring (March-May) offers beautiful wildflowers and active wildlife. Summer can be hot and humid, so early morning visits are best. Fall (September-November) provides stunning foliage and ideal temperatures. The trail remains open year-round, though winter visits should account for shorter daylight hours.
Nearby Eats
Stop by Gondola Pizza & Steak House in La Vergne for family-friendly Italian fare, or grab burgers and milkshakes at Sonic Drive-In for a quick post-trail refuel with the kids.
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