We arrived in Middle Tennessee, just outside of Nashville in July. These were our adventures in this area:
Piney River
The Piney is one of the few rivers in this area that is a natural [undammed] spring fed river. The water is clear with a beautiful blue green tint and very cold [like the Florida spring fed rivers we are used to]. With the soaring summer temps it was so very refreshing. We opted to rent sit on top kayaks from Pinewood Canoe & Camp because the waters were low and would likely drag bottom.
We took our time casually floating down the cool waters and watched fish, crawfish and turtles along the way. This would not be a destination river [like the larger rivers of The Buffalo] but is a refreshing and fun stretch of river.
Cumberland River Bicentennial Trail
Another very pleasant adventure was the Cumberland River Bicentennial Trail. It was appx a 22 mile round trip biking adventure following the Cumberland River, crossing a cool old railroad bridge and ending at the up at the Cheatham Dam. The trail was a mix of paved, gravel, dirt and a short section on the road to the dam.
Although not a destination adventure, it was a nice way to spend a few hours and get in a little cardio.
Harpeth River
The Harpeth River State Park is a linear park that manages nine river access sites along 40 river miles. We floated/paddled a 10 mile stretch from Highway 70 to Harris Street Bridge.
We heard that this stretch gets EXTREMELY busy on the weekend. If you just look at the two different outfitters that cater to the river, you can definitely tell it gets crazy busy. We opted for a Friday morning and only saw a few other paddlers/floaters the entire trip.
It was a very pleasant paddle with a few bluffs and cooling off points.
Montgomery Bell State Park
This is where we were “camping” for 14 days. We had a very pleasant spot on the little creek; however, (honestly) it wasn’t a great location for a long-term location so we likely will not plan to revisit the campground. The park had quite a few pleasant hikes, the lodge offered a pool to the lodge and cabin renters but not campers, there was a swimming hole at the lodge and some kayak and paddle board rentals for the small lake.
The hike we chose was the Wildcat to Montgomery Bell to Creech Hollow, a 8’ish-mile hike that seemed to circumvent the park and catch it’s highlights. It was pleasant easy walk in the wood with the feature of the hike (for us) was the historic and operational Cumberland Presbyterian Church. We happened to arrive to the site on a Sunday morning during church services and were moved by the sermon, prayers and hymns from the service occuring.
Stones River Greenway Trail [Murfreesboro]
The Murfreesboro Greenway System consists of 15 miles of trails, bridges, and boardwalks for enjoying Murfreesboro’s beautiful natural setting. We did the entire trail and really enjoyed the experience. Although, it wouldn’t be a destination adventure, it was an enjoyable outing we would recommend while in the area.
Nashville’s Broadway
Not being very good with large crowds and busy cities, we opted to take a go at touring the Broadway District in Nashville. Choosing a Wednesday and getting a semi early start, we were hoping it would be enjoyable. However, we have since been told there are no “slow” times for the very popular destination of Nashville.
We started with a small party-bus tour which was okay. In hindsight, we wondered if the double decker bus tour would have been a better choice.
For a late lunch, we opted for one of the local favorites, Hattie B’s hot chicken. Although, we enjoyed the food we likely would not return again but rather opt for another local favorite.
Between the heat and the crowds, we opted to forgo our plans of touring the Ryman and left just a little disappointed after stopping in for a look-see at several of the honkeytonks.
We plan to return at some point and stay somewhere in the “district” to get the full experience of morning, afternoon and night life in the Music Capital.
Here are a few of Mike’s pics…..
Breweries
We’ve been searching for local brews since before they were popular and the hunt was always fun and interesting. Fast forward to today’s choices and there are too many breweries to try (responsibility). LOL. The possibilities are endless.
In this area we visited: Tennessee Brew Works (Nashville), Yazoo Brewery (Madison), Marrowbone Brewery (Asland City). Although they all had tasty brews, none were worthy of our coveted growler….. Aaaahhhh….. will have to keep searching.
Conclusion
The area is full of adventures from hiking, biking, paddling and general exploring. You should give it a try.
Nspired Adventures 