Scenic Drives

BY LINDSAY FERRIER

While many flock to Franklin each year for its historical tours and fabulous shops and restaurants,

locals know downtown Franklin is only part of what makes Williamson County special. The city is surrounded by some of the most beautiful rolling hills and pastureland in Tennessee, making the area rich in scenic drive opportunities. Whether you have an hour or a day to spend taking in the sights, here are six scenic drives guaranteed to set your spirits soaring.

FRANKLIN TO THOMPSON’S STATION

This scenic drive takes you down Highway 31 from Franklin to nearby Thompson’s Station. Within minutes, you’ll leave the hustle and bustle of the city behind in favor of sprawling farms and the gentle green hills that have inspired many a country music songwriter over the years. End your drive at Preservation Park for a walk on a truly unique trail that takes you up to the top of a Sound of Music-style hill offering 360-degree views of the countryside. Once you’ve burned off some energy, have lunch in nearby Spring Hill - A few favorite options include Martin’s Bar-B-Que Joint and Hwy 55 Burgers.

OLD NATCHEZ TRACE ROAD

I’m letting you in now on a truly local secret. When we want to go on a short, scenic drive that threatens to break my heart with its sheer loveliness, we head down Old Natchez Trace. This beloved four-mile road is one

of Williamson County’s best-kept secrets, and a drive down it, particularly at sunset, won’t soon be forgotten. The narrow road beside the Harpeth River dates back to the early 1800s and follows the original Natchez Trace, a trade route used by Mississippian Native Americans for centuries. Today, you’ll still see plenty of remnants from the past along the Trace, including historic homes and structures, stone walls built initially by slaves, and a marker denoting the original location of Old Town.

31A

Route 31A offers charming countryside views and plenty of exciting roadside stops sure to satisfy everyone in your party. You’ll want to take this road on your visit to historic downtown Nolensville, a fantastic place to spend a few hours shopping and enjoying a Southern-inspired lunch or dinner. The entire 31A Trail also takes you to Arrington Vineyards, considered by those in Middle Tennessee to be one of the most beautiful picnic spots in the region, as well as the Mill Creek Brewing Company and Morning Glory Orchard.

BIG EAST FORK ROAD

Here’s another local secret - one most only discover through word-of-mouth! Williamson County’s Big East Fork Road is another breathtakingly beautiful country road that will have you stopping for pictures every chance you get. You’ll pass grazing cattle, an old covered bridge, the lovely East Fork Creek, and charming farmhouses as you wind your way through the emerald hills surrounding the Natchez Trace Parkway, as well as points of interest that beg to be researched, like Graveyard Hollow, Tobacco Patch Hollow, Big Ivey Hollow, and more. This narrow, lightly-trafficked road is popular with cyclists, so keep an eye out for them while you’re out sightseeing. Stay on the road when it crosses under the Natchez Trace