11 Tennessee Trails That Are Perfect for a Winter Walk

Winter in Tennessee brings cooler temperatures and clearer skies, making it one of the best times to explore the state’s beautiful trails. The absence of summer crowds and thick foliage means better views, peaceful surroundings, and a chance to spot wildlife more easily.

Whether you’re looking for a quick city stroll or a longer nature escape, Tennessee offers trails that stay accessible and inviting all season long. Here are eleven fantastic options to lace up your boots and enjoy the crisp winter air.

1. Radnor Lake Trail — Nashville

Radnor Lake offers one of Nashville’s most peaceful winter escapes. The easy lakeside path winds around calm waters, where you’ll often spot herons, ducks, and even the occasional deer wandering close to the shoreline.

With leaves off the trees, winter reveals views that summer hikers miss entirely. You can see deeper into the woods and catch glimpses of the surrounding hills. The trail stays relatively flat, making it accessible for all fitness levels.

Early mornings here feel especially magical when mist rises off the water and everything is still and quiet.

2. Shelby Bottoms Greenway — Nashville

Shelby Bottoms Greenway is a local favorite for year-round walking, especially when the weather turns chilly. The mostly flat, paved path follows the Cumberland River, offering miles of easy terrain perfect for a leisurely winter stroll.

Bring a thermos of hot coffee or cocoa and enjoy the open views across the wetlands. The trail is wide enough for joggers, walkers, and cyclists to share comfortably. It’s also dog-friendly, so your furry friend can tag along.

Because it’s paved and well-maintained, you won’t have to worry about muddy boots or icy patches as much as on other trails.

3. Tennessee Riverwalk — Chattanooga

Chattanooga’s Tennessee Riverwalk stretches for miles along the river, giving you plenty of space to rack up winter steps without repeating the same scenery. The path is paved and mostly flat, ideal for families or anyone wanting an easygoing outdoor experience.

Keep in mind there’s a temporary closure near the new stadium construction area, so plan your route accordingly. Despite that, there’s still plenty of accessible trails to enjoy. You’ll pass parks, bridges, and waterfront views that look especially crisp in the cold air.

4. Ijams River Trail Loop — Knoxville

Ijams Nature Center sits right in the heart of Knoxville, offering a quick nature fix without leaving the city limits. The River Trail Loop features boardwalk sections that keep your feet dry even after recent rain or snow melt.

Winter transforms this trail into a quiet retreat where you can hear the river rushing and birds calling without the usual summer buzz of insects. The loop is manageable for most walkers and provides a nice mix of forest and waterfront scenery. It’s a great option when you need to reset your mind but don’t have time for a long drive.

5. Will Skelton Greenway — Knoxville

Will Skelton Greenway runs through Knoxville’s Urban Wilderness, offering a wide, easy walking surface that stays accessible all year long. The trail follows the river closely, giving you water views without the steep climbs found on other paths.

It’s also a great spot for a quick workout or a casual afternoon stroll. The reliable conditions make it a go-to when other trails might be too muddy or icy.

6. Big Ridge State Park Trails — Maynardville

Big Ridge State Park near Norris Lake is a hidden gem for winter hiking. The trails here stay open year-round, offering a peaceful escape from busier state parks. You’ll find a variety of loops and paths that wind through quiet woods and along the lakeshore.

Winter hiking here means solitude. The park sees fewer visitors in colder months, so you might have entire sections to yourself.

Dress warmly and bring sturdy shoes, as some trails can be uneven. But the trade-off is worth it for the tranquility and natural beauty you’ll experience away from the crowds.

7. Lake Trail (Fall Creek Falls State Park) — Spencer

Fall Creek Falls State Park is famous for its waterfalls, but the Lake Trail offers a gentler winter option. This paved path follows the lake’s edge, providing easy walking without the steep climbs required to reach the park’s main falls.

Winter is a wonderful time to visit because the park is much quieter. You can enjoy the scenery at your own pace without jostling for parking or trail space. The lake reflects the sky beautifully on clear days, and the surrounding mountains create a stunning backdrop.

This trail is perfect if you want natural beauty without a tough workout. It’s accessible for strollers and wheelchairs, making it inclusive for everyone in your group.

8. Burgess Falls Trail (Burgess Falls State Park) — Near Cookeville

Burgess Falls delivers one of Tennessee’s most rewarding waterfall hikes, and winter makes it even more dramatic. The trail leads you past several cascades before reaching the main 136-foot plunge, which looks spectacular framed by bare winter trees and rock formations.

The walk itself is moderately easy, though there are some stairs and uneven sections near the falls. Always check park alerts before heading out, especially after heavy rain when water levels can make viewing areas slippery.

9. Reelfoot Lake Boardwalk — Tiptonville

Reelfoot Lake offers a completely different Tennessee trail experience. The boardwalk-style path takes you through a flooded forest landscape that feels almost otherworldly, especially in winter when the cypress trees stand bare against the sky.

This park is famous for winter eagle watching, and you’ll often spot bald eagles perched in trees or soaring overhead. Waterfowl also gather here in large numbers during colder months. The short boardwalk makes it easy to explore without committing to a long hike.

10. Abrams Falls Trailhead — Townsend

Abrams Falls Trail in the Great Smoky Mountains offers a moderate winter hike with a beautiful payoff. The 5-mile round trip follows a creek through the forest before reaching a powerful 20-foot waterfall that flows year-round.

Winter hiking here means fewer tourists and better parking availability than you’d find in summer. The bare trees open up views of the surrounding mountains and make it easier to spot wildlife along the way.

Pack snacks and take your time. The trail can be muddy in spots, but the peaceful forest atmosphere and impressive falls make it well worth the effort.

11. Gatlinburg Trail Trailhead — Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg Trail stands out as one of the few Smoky Mountain trails that allows pets and bicycles, making it unusually versatile. The easy, mostly flat path follows the West Prong of the Little Pigeon River between Gatlinburg and Sugarlands Visitor Center.

It’s perfect for families with young kids or anyone wanting a gentle introduction to Smoky Mountain hiking. The river views and easy terrain make it a stress-free winter outing.