Enjoying the great outdoors with your dog is a fun way to hang out and spend quality time with your furry friend, especially when it is nice outside.
Most dogs enjoy running in the yard and meeting their doggy-pals at the dog park. But if you want a more exciting way to get moving with your dog, hiking is a great idea! The scents along the trail will keep your dog mentally stimulated, while the climbing and running will be good for its body.
If you want to know about the best hiking paths in and around Murfreesboro, TN, this guide is just for you.
Best Hiking Trails for Dogs Near Murfreesboro, TN
The Murfreesboro Greenway System, also known as the Stones River Greenway or Thompson Lane Trailhead, is a fantastic paved trail for dog lovers. It is ideal for summer strolls, and many dog owners enjoy bringing their furry friends here for a refreshing swim in the river.
The General Bragg entrance near Cason Park has a convenient dog ‘bark park’ with separate areas for both small and large dogs. Along the trail, you will also find a Mexican restaurant, a convenience store, and numerous benches to sit and rest. The latter is perfect for those who wish to enjoy the scenic river views and spend quality time with their canine companions.
Well-maintained paths and pet-friendly features make this greenway system a must-visit for pet owners living in and around Murfreesboro. Make sure you bag your dog’s poop and also keep your pet leashed at all times.
Reviews – TripAdvisor, Google, Yelp
Phone – Phone – 615-890-5333
Flat Rock Cedar Glades and Barrens State Natural Area
The Flat Rock Cedar Glades and Barrens State Natural Area spans 846 acres in Rutherford County and is just 8 miles from Murfreesboro. It is a picturesque haven for dog owners, and the trail, though relatively short, is perfect for a serene hike with dogs on a leash. This makes it an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced hikers alike.
Be sure to use tick protection for your pets, as dogs tend to return with ticks from this captivating natural gem.
The landscape is adorned with beautiful flowers, and the park also serves as an ecologically vital site for numerous rare plants and endemic species you don’t get to see everywhere.
On the downside, the site lacks maintenance facilities like restrooms, and its parking is limited and overgrown. Despite these drawbacks, the Flat Rock Cedar Glades Barrens State Natural Area offers an enchanting experience for dog lovers amidst nature.
Address – Factory Rd., Murfreesboro, TN 37130
Phone – 615-532-0431
Reviews – Google
Barfield Wilderness Trail Loop
The Barfield Wilderness Trail Loop offers an exhilarating outdoor experience thanks to its scenic 4.4-mile loop encircling a vast, 430-acre park.
Moderately challenging, this trail loop is a dog-friendly haven. It is suitable for both seasoned hikers and those with playful pups. It is open all year round and is ideal for nature enthusiasts and bird watchers, thanks to its diverse bird population. The loop also has numerous shelter areas dotting it to provide rest stops for weary hikers.
The park also has ample parking for nearly 600 cars. This ensures convenient access for visitors from near and far. The trail and park have several multi-use fields and baseball fields, which add to the loop’s versatility. With its scenic charm and varied features, the Barfield Wilderness Trail Loop is a year-round delight for enthusiastic pet owners and avid hikers.
Address – 697 Veterans Parkway, Murfreesboro, TN
Phone – 615-890-5333
Reviews – TripAdvisor
The West College Street Trailhead offers an entrance to the Murfreesboro Greenway System and the General Bragg Trailhead. It is an easy trail for beginners, with clear markings and smooth pavement.
The trail is also perfect for leashed dogs but make sure you carry bags to collect dog poop. West College Street Trailhead also offers a unique view of passing trains and features a nearby kids’ park. It is also cyclist-friendly.
The trail also becomes a monarch butterfly feeding and breeding zone during the warm months. It has a serene lake at its center. There are abundant restrooms available on the trail.
The only downside is that there is very little shade—about 10%—which could be a drawback in summer. Overall, the West College Street Trailhead is a great hiking trail for dog owners in and around Murfreesboro.
Official Website – https://www.murfreesborotn.gov/facilities/facility/details/West-College-Street-Trailhead-3
Address – 1584-1594 W College St, Murfreesboro
Nestled 5.0 miles north of Murfreesboro, near Walter Hill Park, the Twin Forks Trail offers a splendid outdoor retreat for dog lovers who love to hike.
It is a short and safe trail that is easily navigable for dogs, children, and even horse riders. The Twin Forks Trail happens to be a part of the historic Trail of Tears and its proximity to a scenic lake enhances its overall charm.
Open year-round, the trails’ well-marked parking lot ensures a convenient start to the 1.4-mile hike, making it perfect for beginners. The trailhead also features an inviting area with picnic tables that offers a pleasant spot for a restful break or a snack. With its easy accessibility, historical significance, and natural beauty, Twin Forks Trail stands out as an enjoyable destination for dog lovers and nature enthusiasts.
Reviews – Click here.
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