Whether you are looking for a leisurely stroll, a mountain bike ride, or an hours-long hike, Percy Warner Park is the perfect destination. This park is also very dog-friendly!
Located nine miles from downtown Nashville, the Percy and Edwin Warner Parks are one of the largest natural parks within a city in the United States. The parks are anchored by a dramatic set of limestone steps, called the Allee, designed by Bryant Fleming at the entrance on Belle Meade Boulevard. More by clicking here.
History
In 1910, Luke Lea purchased land to develop the new town of Belle Meade. He married the daughter of streetcar and utility magnate Percy Warner, who was also a member of the city’s park board at that time. Warner partnered with Lea to advance his vision for a “necklace of magnificent parks” around Nashville and gain control of the electric utility industry.
Edwin and Percy Warner Parks span more than 3,180 contiguous acres within the city limits of Nashville, just nine miles from downtown. Miles of paved and pet-friendly trails, bridle paths, sports fields, golf courses, picnic areas, the Nature Center, and the famed Iroquois Steeplechase draw over a million visitors annually.
Friends of Warner Parks, a 501c3 nonprofit organization, is dedicated to the preservation, protection, and stewardship of the parks by leveraging volunteer, partnership, and philanthropic efforts to support programs that inspire appreciation and conservation. The nonprofit is a proud partner of Metro Nashville Parks and Recreation.
Hiking Trails
Known for its beautiful scenery, awe-inspiring views, and gorgeous trails, Percy Warner Park is a hiking and trail-lovers dream. The park is home to a wide range of trails that can be enjoyed by hikers of all skill levels.
The most popular trails are the Lakeshore Trail, the Chickering Road & Mossy Ridge Trail, and the Luke Lea Heights Trail. The park’s hiking trails offer stunning scenic views of the surrounding hills and lush forests of oak, beech, and hickory trees. Wildflowers such as trillium, Dutchman’s breeches, and trout lilies also grow in the area.
The park’s trails are ideal for dog walkers too. However, it is recommended that dogs are kept on leash and under control at all times. This will help ensure the safety of both dogs and other hikers. More about Nashville here.
Biking Trails
There are bike trails for cyclists of all skill levels. The Lakeshore Trail is a 7-mile loop that is easy and scenic, while the Mossy Ridge trail offers more challenging terrain.
The park’s bike trails are a welcome addition to Nashville, a city that is not known for its outdoor recreation. The paved paths are quiet and free from vehicle traffic, making them perfect for cycling.
For those who want to try mountain biking for the first time, the park’s Biking Camp is a great place to start. The program includes a classroom lesson, skills practice, and a competency demonstration before riders hit the trails. During the camp, riders can learn about the basics of mountain biking, as well as how to maintain their bikes. Afterward, they can enjoy the park’s scenic views. The trails are open from dawn to dusk, and dogs are allowed on a leash. Guests can also enjoy the Warner Parks’ miles of pet-friendly hiking trails and paved roadways.
Picnicking
The park is a picnic paradise with plenty of scenic spots to enjoy a deli sandwich or pack a cooler for an afternoon nature getaway. There are also picnic shelters and tables scattered throughout the park for group gatherings.
There are 8 miles of mountain biking trails with trailheads at the Percy Warner Park Golf Course and at the Deep Well Park entrance. The trails offer levels of difficulty from beginner to advanced so be sure to check the trail signs before riding.
Edwin and Percy Warner parks span more than 3,000 acres and host a variety of recreational activities, including hiking trails, mountain bike trails, horse trails, cross-country running courses, and a golf course. The parks are also home to the world’s oldest steeplechase race, the Iroquois Steeplechase.
Whether you are an outdoor enthusiast or simply looking for a way to escape the bubble that Vanderbilt can sometimes feel like, the trails at Percy Warner Park and Edwin Warner Park are the perfect places to start. Just be sure to leave your dog at home, and remember to follow basic trail etiquette. Check our next area of interest here.
Driving directions from Allegiance to Percy Warner Park
Driving directions from Percy Warner Park to Cheekwood
