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Bells Bend Outdoor Center
4.6 ★★★★★ 127 Google reviews · Running trail in Nashville, Tennessee · Dawn to dusk
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Natural surface
- Distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Not reported
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Dawn to dusk
Confirmed from Bells Bend Outdoor Center's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Environmental education & outdoor recreation facility with nature programs, guided hikes & displays.
What runners say about Bells Bend Outdoor Center
“One of the most beautiful parks that I’ve ever seen, however we learned our lesson the hard way today that tick season is in full swing.”
“Great place to go and enjoy some peace and quiet.”
This is a beautiful and tranquil park. There is a visitor center near the entrance, and areas for camping and large gatherings. Overall, this is a somewhat small Park (800 acres) that is great for small strolls and longer day hikes.
One of the most beautiful parks that I’ve ever seen, however we learned our lesson the hard way today that tick season is in full swing. We pulled at least three different kinds of ticks off of my husband and I after our walk today. Leaving review to warn others to use caution this time of year
I like the trais. Quiet peaceful. I live here on this road and I hope it never changes. But I would like to know of they can clean near the river trail and we can get to the river to swim and kayak. Be great adventurous to so and fish.
Love the rolling hills and various paths that you can take. There is also plenty of room to spread out from other hikers during the pandemic, which isn’t always the case on most Nashville trails.
Trail conditions & character
“One of the most beautiful parks that I’ve ever seen, however we learned our lesson the hard way today that tick season is in full swing.”
“Cons: 1) Kind of far from the city; 2) doesn't have challenging hills; and 3) gets extremely muddy, which is often in rainy Nashville.”
“Great place to go and enjoy some peace and quiet.”
“Pros: 1) Great for low impact running since it's all dirt trails; 2) allows dogs; and 3) has several routes that can be combined for long runs/hikes.”
“Cons: 1) Kind of far from the city; 2) doesn't have challenging hills; and 3) gets extremely muddy, which is often in rainy Nashville.”
Plan your run at Bells Bend Outdoor Center
The practical stuff
- AccessDawn to dusk — the gates close, so do not plan a run that finishes after dark
- SurfaceNatural surface — easiest on the joints and the most fun, but expect roots, rocks and mud after rain
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Websitenashville.gov
- Phone(615) 862-4187
- Social Instagram · Facebook
Hours
| Monday | Closed |
| Tuesday | 12–4 PM |
| Wednesday | 12–4 PM |
| Thursday | 12–4 PM |
| Friday | 12–4 PM |
| Saturday | 9 AM–4 PM |
| Sunday | Closed |
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