Edwin and Percy Warner Parks sit side by side about nine miles southwest of downtown Nashville, with more than 3,100 acres of woods and open fields to explore. Choose from paved paths and natural trails, including routes with steep climbs and overlooks, or take a scenic drive through Percy Warner. The stone steps at its Belle Meade entrance are a distinctive landmark. Picnic areas, a nature center and trails welcoming to dogs make the parks a good choice for a few hours outdoors.
Two parks, one large outdoor area
Edwin Warner Park and Percy Warner Park are adjacent, separated by Old Hickory Boulevard, and commonly known together as Warner Parks. The two parks cover more than 3,100 acres of forest and fields, about nine miles southwest of downtown Nashville. Metro Nashville Parks and Recreation manages the grounds.
The scale gives you options for a short walk or a longer outing. Across the parks are paved paths, natural hiking routes, mountain biking trails, horse trails, picnic areas and scenic overlooks. Some paths are gentle; others include rocky ground, hills and steep sections. Choose a route that fits your time and ability, and allow extra time if you plan to stop for photos or a picnic.
Trails and landmarks in Percy Warner Park
Percy Warner’s Belle Meade entrance is marked by a prominent flight of stone steps. The steps lead toward trailheads and bike paths, and are among the park’s best-known landmarks. Scenic drives and overlooks provide another way to take in the wooded hills without walking every trail.
The parks have more than 12 miles of hiking trails, including routes through forest and up to open views. The White Trail is a 2.5-mile loop from the Belle Meade Boulevard entrance. Mossy Ridge is another named trail; its route includes hilltop views, springs and open meadows. Trail options vary in difficulty, so check the route before you start and bring water for a longer or more strenuous walk.
Warner Parks is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Historic landmarks within the grounds include a World War I memorial. Percy Warner’s stone gates and walls at the Belle Meade entrance were built by the Works Progress Administration.
Nature learning and other ways to spend the day
The Warner Parks Nature Center holds free classes and focuses on environmental education and local natural history. Its grounds include a working organic garden, beehives and flowers. Check the center’s schedule if a class or visit is part of your plan.
Beyond walking and hiking, the parks have picnic shelters, a dog park, golf courses, athletic fields and cross-country running courses. Equestrian trails cover 10 miles; riders need to bring their own horse. The mix of paths and facilities makes it possible to combine a walk with a picnic or another outdoor activity, though the parks are spread across a large area, so plan around the entrance closest to what you want to do.
Perguntas frequentes
How far are Warner Parks from downtown Nashville?
The parks are about nine miles southwest of downtown Nashville.
Are Warner Parks two separate parks?
Yes. Edwin Warner Park and Percy Warner Park sit next to each other and are commonly referred to together as Warner Parks.
Are dogs allowed at Warner Parks?
Yes. Dogs are welcome on the trail system, and the parks also have a dog park.
How long are the hiking trails?
The parks have more than 12 miles of hiking trails, with routes of varying difficulty.
