Old trains hated hills just as much as your legs do. Railroad builders needed gentle grades, so they carved level paths through some of the bumpiest country in the South.
Those tracks are mostly gone now. In their place, Tennessee has paved and graveled the old routes into trails for bikes, strollers, and sneakers.
I love that a steam engine’s needs from long ago still shape a lazy Saturday ride today. You get the views of a hilly state without the burning thighs.
Some of these routes cross old trestles over creeks. Others roll right past historical markers that tell the story of the line.
So why grind up a mountain road when the railroads already did the hard work? These seven trails prove that easy miles and big scenery can share the same path.
Which one will you pedal first?
1. Tweetsie Trail
Railroads once chugged through this corner of East Tennessee, and now bikes roll along the same line. The trailhead sits at the corner of Legion and Alabama Streets in Johnson City.
Underfoot, you’ll find chat gravel, a fine crushed stone that makes a smooth riding surface. The path is wide, so passing a jogger or a stroller doesn’t feel like a squeeze.
Here’s a fun bonus for downhill fans. The grade runs low and gentle down from the trailhead, so the first stretch feels almost effortless.
Of course, what goes down must come back up. The good news is that the climb back is so mild your legs barely notice.
Shade covers much of the route, thanks to trees hugging both sides. That makes summer rides far more pleasant than a sunny road shoulder.
History buffs get a treat too. Historical markers line the trail and share stories about the old rail line that once ran here.
Need a breather? Benches pop up along the way, perfect for a snack or a chat while the kids catch up.
You will cross roads at several points, so keep an eye out at intersections. Dogs are welcome outside, so your four-legged pal can join the fun.
Hours run from 6 AM into the evening, giving early birds plenty of time. Weekday afternoons and Sunday evenings tend to draw the biggest crowds.
Parking options include a free lot and free street spaces nearby. It’s an easy start for a scenic ride through the hills of Tennessee.
Address: Corner of Legion St. & Alabama St, Johnson City, TN 37601
2. Cumberland River Bicentennial Trail
Five bridges in three and a half miles is a pretty great ratio for any bike ride. Two of those bridges stretch long over the water, giving you views you’d never get from a car.
Many of these crossings are converted old railroad trestles. Riding over them feels like borrowing a little piece of history for the afternoon.
The paved greenway winds through hardwood sloughs near Ashland City. Expect creek views, thick woods, and plenty of chances to spot wildlife.
Shade is a big selling point here. Tree cover blankets the trail, which helps a lot during those sticky Middle Tennessee summers.
The route runs 3.5 miles one way, so a round trip lands at about seven miles. That’s a sweet spot for families or riders easing back into the saddle.
Kids handle the flat pavement with ease. Little legs can keep pace without any huffing up steep grades.
Plan for comfort breaks with confidence. A restroom sits around the one-mile mark, which parents will appreciate.
Picnic tables offer another reason to linger. Pack sandwiches and make a whole afternoon out of it.
Dogs are allowed, so bring your pup along for the stroll. Just remember a leash and a water bowl for warm days.
Hours run from 8 AM to 7 PM daily. Saturday mornings get busy, while weekday evenings tend to be quieter.
Address: Cumberland River Bicentennial Trail, Ashland City, TN 37015
3. Clarksville Greenway
Rollerblades, anyone? Skating joins walking and biking on this 4.6-mile asphalt path built along a former railway.
The smooth surface makes it one of the friendliest rides in Clarksville. Wheels of nearly any size glide along without a fight.
Overhanging trees cover most of the trail. That canopy keeps things shady and comfortable on hot afternoons.
Beautiful bridges add some drama to the route. Keep your eyes open for wildlife along the edges, too.
Families have plenty to love beyond the path itself. The greenway offers a playground and swings for kids who need a break from pedaling.
Fitness fans can make use of workout areas along the way. Benches and picnic tables round things out for slower, snack-focused outings.
Public restrooms are available, which makes longer visits easier. Bike rentals are also offered, so you don’t even need your own ride.
Cycling lanes help keep traffic flowing smoothly on the path. Dogs are allowed, so the whole crew can come along.
Morning is the popular time here, especially on weekends. If you prefer more elbow room, weekday afternoons tend to be quieter.
The trail opens at 6 AM and closes at 6 PM daily. Plan your ride around those hours to avoid a rushed finish.
Free parking makes the trip even easier on your wallet. It’s a solid half-day outing for anyone near the Kentucky line.
Address: 1101 Pollard Rd, Clarksville, TN 37042
4. Mountain Goat Trail
A trail named after a mountain goat sounds like a leg-burner. Surprise, it’s actually an easy paved path up on the plateau.
The name comes from the historic Mountain Goat Railroad. Trains once climbed this region, and the old rail bed now carries bikes instead.
Sewanee is home base, but the trail reaches beyond town. It links Monteagle toward Tracy City, giving you a ride with a real sense of place.
The paved stretch covers about 5.7 miles in total. That’s enough for a satisfying morning without wiping out your afternoon.
Here’s the clever part. The steep climb happens on the drive up the mountain, so once you’re on top, the riding stays easy.
The atmosphere leans peaceful. Expect quiet woods and calm miles rather than crowds and chaos.
Walkers share the path with cyclists, so a friendly bell ring goes a long way. Dogs are welcome outside, too.
The trail is listed as open 24 hours. Still, daylight rides make the most sense for safety and scenery.
Tuesday mornings and Wednesday afternoons see the most traffic. Saturday evenings tend to stay pretty calm.
It’s an easy detour from Interstate 24 between Nashville and Chattanooga. Few road trip breaks feel this refreshing.
Address: Sewanee, TN 37375
5. Eureka Trail
Bikes, boots, and horseshoes all share the road here. Few trails in this roundup welcome horseback riders, which gives this one real personality.
The route follows an abandoned rail corridor connecting Athens and Englewood. The old railway right-of-way keeps things wide and level.
Two large, well-kept dirt trails offer plenty of room. Horses, bikes, and family walkers can all spread out comfortably.
There’s also a finished walkway for those who want smoother footing. It’s a great pick for anyone who struggles on tougher terrain.
Runners get a treat with the gravel surface. It’s forgiving on knees and pleasant underfoot.
The main stretch covers about four miles. Scenic views along the way keep the miles from feeling repetitive.
Recent upgrades added a parking lot and restrooms. Clean bathrooms make a long ride much more relaxing.
Dogs are allowed outside, so your jogging buddy can tag along. A wide path means less tangling with other trail users.
Hours run from 7 AM to 9 PM every day. Tuesday afternoons and evenings draw the biggest crowds.
Weekend afternoons tend to be quieter, surprisingly. That’s a nice window for a peaceful spin.
Athens sits between Knoxville and Chattanooga, making it an easy drive from either city. It’s a small-town ride with big open feel.
Address: 1400 E Madison Ave, Athens, TN 37303
6. Shelby Farms Park Greenline
Memphis is famous for barbecue and blues, but it also hides a city rail trail. Not bad for a place known more for music than mileage.
The greenline was built on a former CSX railroad corridor. That old right-of-way gives you a paved, even grade through the city.
Flat is the name of the game out west, too. Still, a smooth path free from car traffic feels like a gift in a busy city.
Cycling lanes help keep riders moving. Walkers and joggers share the route, so friendly passing matters.
The greenline connects with the biking trails around Shelby Farms Park. Linking the two lets you stretch a short ride into a big day.
Families find plenty to like here. The setting suits parents riding alongside kids who are still building confidence.
Dogs are allowed, so your pup can enjoy the outing. Just keep an eye on bikes zipping by.
Sundays bring the busiest crowds, from morning into evening. Tuesday and Friday nights tend to stay much quieter.
For West Tennessee riders, this path is a backyard escape. You don’t need a long drive to find car-free miles.
Visitors from Arkansas and Mississippi can reach it quickly too. It’s an easy add-on to any Memphis weekend.
Address: Shelby Farms Greenline, Memphis, TN 38112
7. Tennessee Central Heritage Rail Trail
Some trains carried freight, but this one carries a whole region’s story. The route traces the historic Tennessee Central Railroad through the Upper Cumberland.
The trailhead sits on West Broad Street in Cookeville. Starting near downtown makes it easy to pair a ride with a stroll around town.
Railroad builders favored gentle, steady grades, and this trail inherits that design. You get several miles without any steep climbs.
The path stretches between Cookeville and Algood. Riding the full length makes for a satisfying day out.
Here’s a friendly tip before you roll. Trail markings can be easy to miss in spots, so check a map before heading out.
A quick look at your phone at turns can save some backtracking. Once you know the route, it flows nicely.
Kids handle the trail well, thanks to its easy grade. It’s a solid pick for a family bike day.
Parking near the farmers market area works as a handy base. Grab your gear and start pedaling right from there.
There’s no restaurant at the trailhead itself. Pack snacks or plan a stop in town afterward.
Cookeville sits about halfway between Nashville and Knoxville. That makes it a perfect meet-in-the-middle ride for friends from both cities.
Address: 150 W Broad St, Cookeville, TN 38501
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