Outdoor Adventures

Timberland Park

Owl’s Hill Nature Sanctuary Whether you prefer hiking, bicycling, fishing, or kayaking, Franklin has outdoor activities for every age and skill level. Here are some fun-filled ways to enjoy a memorable outdoor adventure during your visit.

HIKING

Timberland Park: Located on the Natchez Trace Parkway just past the Highway 96 entrance ramp, Timberland Park offers more than three miles of secluded trails through lush forests and meadows. Each of the 10 trails offers a

variety of difficulty for all hiking levels, including an ADA accessible trail.

Preservation Park: This bucolic 200-acre park in Thompson’s Station is a little-known Tennessee treasure. It’s also the site of the Civil War’s Battle of Thompson’s Station. Take the 3.4-mile Battlefield Trail through serene pastures up to the top of a massive grassy hill with stunning 360-degree views of the surrounding countryside. Continue on the Depot Trail to see the local dog park and community garden!

Marcelle Vivrette Smith Park: This lovely, lush park has nine miles of mostly forested hiking trails, as well as a paved multi-use trail that connects to Brentwood’s extensive greenway trail system. You’ll also find the stunning and historic Ravenswood Mansion here, dating back to 1825.

Owl’s Hill Nature Sanctuary: Tucked away in the hills of Brentwood, Owl’s Hill Nature Sanctuary is a fantastic option both for hiking and learning about wildlife. You’ll find six different trails here for new and seasoned hikers. Expect to see plenty of whimsical surprises along the paths. To hike at Owl’s Hill, purchase a $5 day pass online, and be sure and check their calendar before you go for guided hikes and other fun educational opportunities.

BIKING

Natchez Trace Parkway Bike Trail: Middle Tennessee’s most popular bicycle route stretches 444 miles along the Natchez Trace Parkway. With its scenic views, historical landmarks, and many fascinating stops along the way, Natchez Trace Parkway is the perfect option for seasoned cyclists looking for an unforgettable ride.

Pedego Electric Bikes: Need a ride? Rent electric bicycles from Pedego Electric Bikes on Second Avenue downtown. These bikes ride like regular bicycles but offer a little electric help when the going gets tough, allowing you to cover far more ground than you could on an ordinary bike. Rent bikes by the hour or for the day, or sign up for one of Pedego’s guided tours, which include trips to the Natchez Trace Parkway, Leiper’s Fork, and Franklin’s historic homes.

Brentwood Trail System: The Brentwood Trail System has eight different paved trails that range in length from one to eight miles round-trip. Most of the trails are connected so that you can customize your ride according to your needs. If you opt to start your journey at the Brentwood Library, you’ll ride alongside the Little Harpeth Creek, which is perfect for a quick splash if the day is warm. The trail system also runs past the Williamson County Recreation Center, the YMCA, and several parks and rec fields, so there are plenty of parking lots and bathrooms along the way.

Wilkins Branch Mountain Bike Park: Beginners and experienced mountain bikers alike can enjoy a great ride at Wilkins Branch Mountain Bike Park. Trail levels are marked

by color, and helmets are required for everyone who rides the mountain bike-only trail.

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HARPETH RIVER

Cumberland Kayak & Adventure Company: Rent a kayak and explore the Harpeth River in Franklin! Cumberland Kayak offers shuttle service from The Park at Harlinsdale Farm to Eastern Flank Battlefield Park. Expect your float down the Harpeth to take one to two hours.

Franklin Fly Fishing Co: Go with a guide on a half-day or full-day float in a drift boat down the Harpeth or Caney Fork River and learn the art of fly fishing for bass, rainbow trout, and more. All the equipment you need is provided! Franklin Fly Fishing Co. will also take you on a wading trip, give you a one-on-one fly fishing lesson, or take you and your group on a pleasure cruise down the Harpeth through downtown Franklin.

Paddle Dog: Rent kayaks, canoes, or stand-up paddleboards by the hour on the shores of the Westhaven Lake. This is a great way to learn to kayak or canoe in a safe, family-friendly environment.

& MORE

SOAR Adventure Tower: SOAR is a massive, outdoor fourlevel climbing tower with 110 different climbing elements for every age and stage. Not a fan of climbing? SOAR also has an 18-hole mini golf course, as well as a bar where adults can kick back and enjoy a beer.

Little Course at Conner Lane, Franklin Bridge Golf Club, and Towhee Club: Want to squeeze in a little golf on your vacation? Little Course at Conner Lane is a 9-hole, par-3 golf course minutes from downtown Franklin. Franklin Bridge Golf Club is an 18-hole golf course with picturesque views of the Harpeth River. In Spring Hill, Towhee Club is a newly-renovated 18-hole golf course designed by Arnold Palmer himself and suitable for all skill levels.

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